Looking for car insurance as a new driver? Learn how to choose coverage, save money, and get your first policy with help from United Auto Insurance.  

 

What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Feb 05, 2026

Car Insurance for New Drivers

If you’re a teenager, first-time driver, or an adult who has never had their own car insurance, getting car insurance is simple and easy with United Auto Insurance.

As a new driver, learning what coverage you need, how to compare auto quotes, and how to reduce your cost is important when buying a policy for the first time.

United Auto Insurance makes it easy to get started. If you're a new driver or a parent helping your teen, UAI offers cheap auto insurance and same-day coverage throughout Chicago and Northwest Indiana.

Different Types of Car Insurance for New Drivers Include?

Understanding the differences helps you choose the right auto policy and avoid unexpected costs or lapses in coverage.

Liability Coverage (Required in Illinois)

If you're at fault in an accident, a liability policy covers injuries and property damage to the other driver. It also provides coverage for you if you’re hit by a driver who has no insurance.

Liability coverage is the minimum required by state law.

Full Coverage

If you’re involved in a crash, full coverage helps with repairs to your own car, which is often required if you finance or lease your vehicle.

Full coverage also helps cover the cost of unexpected damage to your car that isn’t caused by a crash, such as extreme weather events, theft, fire, vandalism, or an object falling on your car.

Additional coverages are available. Consult with your licensed UAI representative.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost for New Drivers?

Several factors may impact your auto insurance rate. Your UAI representative will work with you to find the lowest possible rate for you.

  • Age and Gender: Finding the lowest possible rate for teens and young adult drivers is the goal of your UAI representative.
  • Location: New drivers in busy cities like Chicago may pay more because of accident and theft rates.
  • Driving Record: As a new driver, having no tickets or accidents can work in your favor.
  • Vehicle Type: Sports cars and new vehicles can be more expensive to insure. Older, safe vehicles tend to cost less.
  • Credit Score: United Auto Insurance never runs your credit score. We work to find the lowest possible rates and monthly payments for your situation.
  • Policy Type: Being added to a parent’s policy can reduce your rate, but starting your own policy can also work. Let us be your guide.

What Kind of Coverage Do I Need as a First-Time Driver?

New driver insurance should fit your personal situation. Whether you're driving a used car or financing a new one, the right coverage gives you peace of mind on the road.

Meet State Minimums

Illinois requires drivers to carry liability insurance. These minimums may not cover all damage in a serious accident, so it’s worth reviewing your options. Contact United Auto Insurance for more information on state minimums.

Know Your Vehicle

  • If you’re driving an older car, you may not need full coverage.
  • If your car is financed or leased, the lender may require both collision and comprehensive coverage.

How to Get Car Insurance for the First Time?

Not sure how to get car insurance for the first time? United Auto Insurance makes the process quick and easy. Here’s what to do:

Collect Your Information

Have the following ready:

  • Driver’s license information
  • Vehicle information
  • Home address

Compare Quotes

Get quotes from a trusted provider. United Auto Insurance offers free auto insurance quotes online and by phone.

Choose Your New Auto Insurance Policy

You can be added to an existing policy or buy your own. United Auto Insurance can help you decide what makes the most sense for your needs and help you get the cheapest insurance for your budget.

Start Coverage

Once you choose a policy, you can start coverage the same day. UAI’s licensed agents are available in English and Spanish.

Why Choose United Auto Insurance for Your First Policy?

Getting insurance for new drivers shouldn’t be complicated or expensive. United Auto Insurance offers low car insurance rates, same-day SR-22 filings, and monthly payment plans to fit your budget. With free quotes online or by phone, and trusted service across Chicago, the Chicagoland area, and Northwest Indiana, UAI makes it easy to get covered.

Ready to Get Started? Get a Free Auto Insurance Quote Today

If you're looking for first-time car insurance, United Auto Insurance is ready to help. Whether you're a teen, a college student, or an adult buying your first policy, we have options for every driver and budget. Get a free quote today.