Can I Add My Teen Driver to My Existing Auto Insurance Policy?

Auto insurance coverage can help protect your family’s financial stability after an accident. Here’s what you need to know about adding a teen driver to your auto policy in South Carolina. 

A teen can be on their parent’s car insurance in South Carolina. Adding a teen driver to an existing policy is often less expensive than buying a separate policy.

It’s important to note that insurance companies will generally require the teen to be listed as a driver on the policy, even if they don’t own the car. Additionally, the teen’s driving record and other factors, such as their grades, may impact the cost of the policy. 

Auto Liability Insurance Coverage 

Auto liability insurance may help cover third-party damages or injuries but only up to the policy’s dollar limits. Your agent can help you determine the proper liability limits for your situation as you work to get appropriate coverage for your family and your new teen driver. 

Lienholder and Lessor Insurance Requirements 

If you finance or lease your car, the lienholder or lessor may require insurance in addition to liability coverage, including the following: 

• Collision insurance may help cover damages to your car if you hit another vehicle or object.  
• Comprehensive insurance may help cover damages to your car from noncollision events, such as theft or weather-related damage.  

• Guaranteed asset protection (GAP) insurance may help pay off your car loan or lease if the insurer deems it a total loss after a covered accident or incident.  

Factors that Affect Teen Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina 

Numerous factors can impact your auto insurance costs when you add a teen driver to your policy. Some of the most important factors include the following: 

• Age—Teenagers are typically the most expensive drivers to insure because they are statistically more likely than experienced drivers to get into accidents. 
• Driving record—If your teen maintains a clean driving record, they may be eligible for discounts on their insurance policy. However, their rates may increase if they have any accidents or violations. 
• Type of car—Sports cars and other high-performance vehicles are typically more expensive to insure than sedans or SUVs.
• Grades—Many insurance companies offer discounts for students with good grades. Encouraging your teen to maintain good grades can help lower the cost of their insurance. 

Tips for Saving Money on Teen Car Insurance 

You can do several things to help lower the cost of adding a teen driver to your auto policy in South Carolina. Consider the following tips: 

• Encourage your teen to take a defensive driving course. 
• Ask about discounts for good grades or safe driving habits. 
• Consider raising your deductible to help lower your monthly premiums. 
• Shop around and compare rates from multiple insurance companies. 
• Consider buying an older or less expensive reliable car for your teen to drive. 

Contact Us 

Contact the team at Select Insurance in Anderson, South Carolina, to learn more about adding your teen driver to your policy and get a personalized quote.  

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.