Car Insurance for First-Time Drivers
First-time drivers often refers to young drivers (between sixteen and twenty-four years old) who are learning how to drive or are getting their first vehicles. But age isn’t the only factor here, especially where car insurance for first-time drivers is concerned. Providers usually consider both age and years licensed or years resided in the country, which means even older drivers and immigrants who just moved to Canada can be considered ‘first-time drivers.’
Getting Your Own Insurance
Note that it’s illegal in Canada to drive a vehicle without car insurance. All drivers need to have the right policy in place to protect themselves and others on the road.
If you’re a first-time driver getting your own insurance, be ready to pay higher insurance premiums (though rates vary depending on your province and provider). This is because young drivers carry less driving experience, which marks them as a higher risk in the eyes of insurance companies. That said, with experience and a clean record, your premiums should lower in no time.
Being Insured on an Existing Policy
If you’re a young driver who still lives under a parent’s roof and is driving a parent’s car, you may be covered by their insurance policy. However, you’ll have to be listed as an occasional or secondary driver. This will increase the price of their premiums, but it gives you a good start on your own insurance history.
If you’re only learning how to drive (i.e. driving with a driver’s permit), you don’t have to take out a car insurance policy yet, nor do you have to be added to your parent’s. You’ll only be allowed to drive with a licensed driver on board, and you’ll be automatically covered under their plan, providing they follow the conditions of the permit.
How to Save on Insurance for First-Time Drivers
Here are some tips to help you save on your car insurance as a first-time driver:
Get a Low-Risk Car
If you’re in the market for a car, consider getting one that insurers will consider low-risk. These include vehicles that have factory-installed security features or older cars that won’t be worth getting claims for in the event of an accident.
Take a Driver’s Training Course
Some insurers offer reduced premiums to first-time drivers who’ve taken driver training. Make sure you complete an accredited course that ticks off all the driver’s license requirements in your province (as these vary).
Bundle Your Policies
If you’re also taking out policies for your health or your home, bundle these up with your car insurance as these come with multi-line discounts. Plus, it’ll be convenient to have all your policies with just one provider.
In Summary
Every driver in Canada must be covered by car insurance. Getting one as a first-time driver can be overwhelming, but knowing how to get the right policy and employing advice on how to lower your premiums can help you find the right coverage plan from an insurance company you can trust.
Interesting Related Article: “Types of Aggressive Car Driving to Know“