Car Insurance for 17-Year-Olds
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17-year-olds can get car insurance in the UK, but it’s often expensive. Insurers see new and young drivers as higher-risk, which means premiums are typically much higher than average, especially for full licence holders driving alone for the first time.
Still, there are ways to reduce the cost and get cover that fits your needs and budget.
Key Takeaways
Why Is Insurance So Expensive for 17-Year-Olds?
At 17, you’re usually seen as a brand-new driver with no driving history or no claims bonus. This makes you statistically more likely to be involved in an accident, especially in the first year of driving.
Factors that increase the cost:
- Lack of experience
- Higher accident risk
- Small claims history (no no-claims bonus yet)
- Driving higher-risk cars without black boxes
- Insuring under your own name rather than a parent’s
Ways to Get Cheaper Car Insurance at 17
There are a few smart ways to bring the cost down:
1. Add a Parent as a Named Driver
Adding an experienced driver (like a parent) to your policy can help lower the risk profile and reduce the premium.
2. Get a Black Box Policy (Telematics)
Many insurers offer black box or telematics policies, which monitor your driving and reward safe behaviour with cheaper premiums.
3. Choose the Right Car
Low-insurance group cars (like small hatchbacks) are cheaper to insure. Avoid high-performance or modified vehicles.
4. Pay Annually (If You Can)
Monthly payments often include interest. If possible, pay the full premium up front to avoid extra charges.
5. Build Your No Claims Bonus
Even one year of no claims can reduce your premium significantly when you renew at 18.
Provisional vs Full Licence: What’s the Difference?
If you’re still learning to drive, you’ll need learner driver insurance, either as a standalone policy or as a named driver on someone else’s.
Once you pass your test and get your full licence, you’ll need a full policy in your own name or as a named driver.
Some providers offer flexible learner policies that convert into full insurance once you pass, so you don’t lose any money or have to cancel.
What’s the average cost of car insurance for a 17-year-old?
It varies, but premiums can easily exceed £1,500–£3,000 per year, depending on the vehicle and cover type.
Can I insure a car before I pass my driving test?
Yes. Provisional insurance is available for learners and can be upgraded once you pass.
Is it cheaper to go on my parent’s insurance?
Often, yes, but be honest about who the main driver is, or it could be considered fronting, which is illegal.
Does a black box really save money?
Yes, many 17-year-olds can save hundreds of pounds with a telematics policy if they drive safely.
Can I get temporary insurance as a 17-year-old?
Some short-term providers cover 17-year-olds, especially learners, but it depends on the vehicle and licence type.
In Summary
17-year-olds can get car insurance, but premiums are high. Choosing a black box policy, a sensible car, and adding a named driver can help cut costs, while starting a no claims bonus early and comparing quotes every year keeps premiums lower over the long term.
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