Best Coverage Options for New Drivers (2026)
What a new driver's policy should include, and where you can reasonably save.
Facts checked September 23, 2026
New drivers pay more for insurance because they have no driving history, not only because of their age. That makes it tempting to buy the least coverage the law allows. It's also when a crash is most likely.
Here's what's worth carrying, in rough order of importance, whether the new driver is a teenager, an adult who just got a license, or someone new to driving in the US.
Coverage worth having
1. Liability limits above the state minimum
Why it matters: Pays for injuries and damage you cause to others
State minimums are often well below what a serious crash costs. Anything above your limit can come out of your own pocket. Of all the coverages, this is the one you shouldn't cut.
2. Uninsured and underinsured motorist
Why it matters: Protects you when the other driver can't pay
If you're hit by a driver with no insurance, or not enough, this coverage steps in for your injuries and, in some states, your car.
3. Collision
Why it matters: Repairs your car after a crash, whoever is at fault
New drivers are more likely to have a crash where they're at fault. If you couldn't afford to repair or replace the car yourself, collision is worth carrying. Lenders require it on financed cars.
4. Comprehensive
Why it matters: Theft, hail, fire, flooding, animals and falling trees
This covers damage that isn't from a collision. It's usually cheaper than collision and required on financed or leased cars.
5. Medical payments or personal injury protection
Why it matters: Medical bills for you and your passengers
Depending on the state, this is optional or required. It helps with medical costs regardless of fault, which matters if a new driver often carries friends.
6. Gap coverage
Why it matters: Financed or leased cars
If a new car is totaled, the payout is based on its current value, which can be less than the loan balance. Gap coverage can cover that difference.
7. Roadside assistance
Why it matters: Breakdowns, flat tires and lockouts
An inexpensive add-on that saves a new driver from being stranded. Check that you don't already have it through a phone plan, credit card or auto club.
8. Rental reimbursement
Why it matters: Anyone who can't manage without a car during repairs
It pays toward a rental car while yours is being fixed after a covered claim. Skip it if you have a second car or can get by without one.
On a parent's policy or your own?
Adding a teenager to a parent's policy is usually less expensive than a separate policy, and it lets them share the household's discounts. But it also puts the household's limits and claims history on the line. Adults who are new drivers usually need their own policy.
Either way, compare quotes with the new driver included, and ask about good student, driver training and telematics discounts.
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Common questions
At minimum, whatever your state requires. Most new drivers are better off with liability above the minimum and uninsured motorist coverage. Add collision and comprehensive if the car is financed or you couldn't replace it yourself.
'Full coverage' usually means liability plus collision and comprehensive. It's worth it when the car has meaningful value or is financed. For an older, inexpensive car, strong liability limits may matter more than collision.
Ask about good student, driver training and telematics discounts, choose a car that's inexpensive to insure, pick a deductible you can afford, and compare quotes from several insurers.
Keep reading
General information only, not insurance advice. Coverage, availability and terms vary by insurer and by state, and are subject to underwriting. Quote My Policy LLC connects you with licensed insurance professionals. Quote My Policy is not an insurance company and does not issue policies. Nothing here binds coverage.