Letting your 17 year old teenage son or daughter drive is always a nerve wracking experience for parents. There’s the possibility of them getting into an accident, driving recklessly, and breaking curfew. All of which make parents sit up at nights worrying. However, there is one other thing that leaves parents sleepless at night, and that’s the rates for a 17 year old car insurance policy.
Car insurance rates for drivers between the ages of 16 and 25 can sometimes be double or triple that of a regular adult driver. Parents who are unprepared for a high quote will receive sticker shock when their car insurance provider gives them the final quote for adding a new teenage driver.
While it might appear all doom and gloom, there is some good news. There are a few things both you or your teenager can do to get lower rates for your car insurance. The following three things are ways previous parents have saved money on their car insurance policies when they’ve added a new teenage driver.
Receive Good Grades in School
Many car insurance companies will offer a discount to teenagers who receive good grades in school. It is believed that students who consistently receive good grades in school are more mature and responsible. Statistics show that responsible and mature drivers are less likely to end up in a car accident or to drive recklessly.
Good grade discounts apply for students in both college and high school. The grade point average required to receive your 17 year old car insurance discount will vary depending upon the car insurance company and can range from 2.5 to 3.5 GPA.
Join an After School Club or Activity
Not every teenager is able to get high enough grades to receive the good grade discount from car insurance providers, which is why some companies offer an after school club or activity discount. This discount works under the same philosophy as the good grade discount, in that students who are involved with extracurricular activities and sports are more mature and responsible and are statistically less likely to be involved in an accident.
Enroll in Driver Safety Courses
Most teenagers are required to enroll in driver’s education classes. However, there are numerous driver safety courses out there that focus on teaching your teenager how to prepare and drive safely. The more driver safety courses your teenager takes the bigger discount you will receive from some car insurance companies. Enrolling in these driver safety courses will not only protect your child but can save you money at the same time.
The financial burden combined with the parental concern can make having a teenage driver in the family very stressful. Luckily, by using some of the three tips and tricks listed above you can save money on your 17 year old car insurance policy and reduce your stress just a little bit.