Cheap Car Insurance If You're A Teenage Driver

Getting cheap car insurance if you are a teenager or young driver can seem impossible. Unfortunately, you are considered a greater risk to auto insurance companies and they're going to charge more. There are some things you can do to try to get the lowest cost insurance.

It seems that just as you start to get all the benefits of adulthood -- driving privileges, more freedom -- you also start to get the responsibilities piled on as well. Of course this usually includes financial responsibility. And just as credit companies are going to charge higher interest until you prove your creditworthiness, car insurance companies are going to charge you higher rates until you prove you are a safer risk.

The first thing you should do is comparison shop and try to get at least three different car insurance quotes. Rates vary between insurance companies so you may get a better deal this way.

One of the quickest ways to do this is online. You can either go to each different insurance company Web site and enter your information, or go to a comparison shopping site where you only enter your information once. Either way, make sure you enter the same information about the coverages you need to get the most accurate comparison.

Other things to consider:

The car you drive can affect how much you pay for insurance. A fast, sporty car is going to cost you more -- especially if you are a teen driver -- than a larger car with more safety features.

If you're in school, maintain a good grade point average. Most car insurance companies will give you a discount for good grades.

Enroll in a defensive driving or other driver safety course. Auto insurance companies often give discounts for that.

Drive safely and within the law. Nothing will cause the cost of your auto insurance to skyrocket like tickets and accidents. What's more, you'll be rewarded as you get older with much lower insurance costs.