Car Insurance with No Insurance History

Getting car insurance without a prior policy is possible, but rates will be higher.
USAA and Travelers offer the lowest rates for previously uninsured drivers.

Use The Zebra to get car insurance with no insurance history from top companies.

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The Zebra partners with some of the companies we write about. However, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of editors and licensed agents. Reference our data methodology and learn more about how we make money.

By Beth Swanson

Updated April 22, 2025

Reviewed By Mark Friedlander

Edited By Renata Balasco

Can I get car insurance with no insurance history?

Obtaining an auto insurance quote if you've never had car insurance before is possible — but your rates might be more expensive than average (which is about $880 for a six-month policy, as of 2025)^[1]. The typical difference in premium between an auto insurance policy for a previously uninsured driver and a currently insured driver is 6% (about $53) more per six-month policy period.

Good news—after a few years of continuous coverage, your rates may drop, as long as you maintain a clean driving record and keep your policy active. For now, let's explore affordable car insurance options for those previously uninsured.

How to get car insurance with no insurance history

Read on or use these links to jump to each section:

Step 1: Explore companies that offer affordable rates for drivers with no previous coverage.
Step 2: Find more ways to save with our helpful tips.
Step 3: Still can't find coverage? Try a non-owners policy for a while.

Jump to

Cheap insurance for uninsured drivers
Why insurance history matters
Ways to save with no insurance history
FAQs

Cheap car insurance companies for a previously uninsured driver

We tracked down the cheapest providers for a previously uninsured (and often new) driver and found reputable names offering policies that could fit your needs as a newly insured driver. We've compiled a list below that will help you get started as you shop for car insurance.

USAA

For military members and their families, USAA is the cheapest for previously uninsured drivers, with premiums at $741 for 6-months.

Travelers

Another option for affordable coverage is Travelers, offering six month policies for drivers with no insurance history at $781.

State Farm

State Farm's rates are competitive, as well, with premiums at $785 for a six-month policy.

Check out these companies for average rates on policies without prior insurance. Some, like Bristol West and Infinity, specialize in non-standard coverage for hard-to-insure drivers. Rates and availability vary, but this list is a great starting point.

Car insurance companies for previously uninsured drivers

Updating data...

Company	Avg. 6 Mo. Premium	Avg. Monthly Premium
USAA	$741	$124
Travelers	$781	$130
State Farm	$785	$131
GEICO	$838	$140
Nationwide	$877	$146
Infinity	$885	$148
Progressive	$1,023	$171
Farmers	$1,139	$190
Allstate	$1,339	$223
Bristol West	$1,980	$330

Source: The Zebra

The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology

The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.

The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.

For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.

Average rates based on length of continuous insurance history

Insurance companies favor continuous coverage. While those without prior coverage pay more initially, rates can drop every six months if they stay insured. On average, having three years of insurance saves $86 per six months ($14 per month). Here's what drivers might pay based on their insurance history.

Average premium by time insured

Updating data...

Insurance History	Avg. 6 Mo. Premium	Avg. Monthly Premium
None	$967	$161
6 Months	$902	$150
1 Year	$897	$149
3 Years	$880	$147
5 Years	$871	$145

Source: The Zebra

Find affordable insurance coverage with no history in minutes.

Why is insurance history used as a rating factor?

Car insurance rates aren’t just based on driving history—factors like credit score, age, homeownership, and insurance history also play a role.

Insurers may see a gap in coverage as a risk factor, similar to bad credit or a poor driving record. If you've experienced a gap, you’re not alone—33% of our customers are uninsured, and 20% come to The Zebra needing coverage ASAP.^[2]

Agent insight: What if I can't find car insurance?

"If you are viewed as uninsurable, it may be more than not having any insurance history. It may be your driving record, credit score, etc. It also depends on your location; some ZIP codes are more expensive. If you can't find insurance on your own, try getting a non-owner policy which will be less expensive, or be added to a roommate's or relative's policy. The most important thing is to build that insurance history to at least 6 months of continuous coverage, so you'll have that discount on your future rate at renewal."

Hunter Black, Licensed Insurance Agent and Sales Manager at The Zebra

How to save on car insurance if you lack insurance history

If you're currently uninsured, we suggest getting coverage as soon as possible so you can begin to have a record of car insurance. There’s not much you can do to change your history, but there are ways to help save you money on your new policy. Let’s break down some cost-cutting solutions.

Important car insurance terms to know

If you're a new driver or if you've never purchased your own auto insurance purchase before, there will be terms that could be unclear. One important tip is to familiarize yourself with car insurance lingo. Here are a few important terms you'll see as you shop for car insurance.

Collision refers to coverage if your car physically collides with something (like another vehicle, your neighbor's fence, a tree, etc.).
A comprehensive claim is for anything that isn't a collision and is outside of the driver's control, such as a natural disaster, theft, vandalism, fire, falling objects, and striking an animal like a deer. These two types of coverage are often lumped together under the term "full coverage."
Liability coverage is there to help cover damage to another person (if they are injured and you're at fault) or someone else's property (such as that hypothetical fence we mentioned). It's required in all states (and Washington, D.C.) except New Hampshire.
Your deductible is the amount you'll pay before your insurance kicks in to help. You can adjust this amount to help save money, too; the higher your deductible, the lower your monthly payment will be, and vice-versa.

Method 1: Compare insurance rates

Shopping around is the best way to save on car insurance. After you complete your first policy term with no claims, your rates should drop—but another provider may offer a better deal. Compare options to find the best fit for your budget and coverage needs. Getting at least three quotes is ideal.^[3]

Method 2: Bundle your insurance policies

Bundle your auto policy with another offered by the same carrier, like home or renters insurance, to unlock a multi-policy discount and save on both.

If you don’t have renters or home insurance, consider getting one—it’s affordable and protects your assets in case of major loss or liability.

Method 3: Carry the correct coverage and avoid lapses

If your car is worth less than $4,000, you might not need collision and comprehensive coverage—dropping them could save you money. Check Kelley Blue Book or NADA to assess your car’s current market value— if you keep full coverage, raising your deductible can lower your premium.

Consistency is key. If you sell your car, consider a non-owner policy to maintain coverage and stay insured while driving.

Method 4: Be smart with your claims

Unless you have accident forgiveness, insurers will raise your rates after an at-fault accident or moving violation like a speeding ticket (typically for three to five years), costing you more than your original premium. Before filing, get a damage estimate from an auto repair shop and evaluate if paying out-of-pocket is cheaper.

Use our claims calculator to decide whether filing a claim is your best move.

Method 5: Check for available discounts

Discounts can help significantly reduce your rates if you qualify. Here are a few to ask about:

Multi-policy discount (bundling)
Good driver discount
Paperless discount
Payment by bank account
Paid in full discount (paying your premium in one payment)
Multi-car discount
Good student discount (under 25)
Telematics discount

What are telematics?

Telematics are in-car devices that monitor the way you drive to price your insurance policy. In theory, the safer of a driver you are, the lower your car insurance rates will be.

Safe driving habits include:

Slow braking
Slow acceleration
Daylight driving
Slow overall speeds

Company	Estimated Savings
Progressive SnapShot	Average of $130
Allstate DriveWise	Average of 10-25%
State Farm Drive Safe and Save	Up to 15%
Esurance DriveSense	Varies
Nationwide SmartRide	Up to 40%
Liberty Mutual RightTrack	Average of 5-30%
Root Car insurance	Varies
Metromile	Varies
GEICO DriveEasy	Varies

Meet our trusted insurance experts

Frequently asked questions: car insurance with no history

Why would an insurance company deny coverage?

Insurance companies rate individuals based on the risk they pose. For example, if a driver has had numerous tickets, a DUI, or gaps in insurance coverage, the insurer may decide not to offer coverage to this individual. Some companies focus on high-risk auto insurance (or non-standard), and they may be willing to insure a driver who is having trouble finding auto insurance elsewhere. There are also state-backed insurance pools for individuals who are unable to get coverage through the private market.

Does having no credit affect getting insurance?

Yes, your credit can impact your coverage eligibility and how much you pay for insurance. This applies in most states, though some—like California—prohibit its use. Insurers use a metric called an insurance score, which is based on credit-related factors but isn’t the same as a traditional credit score. Studies show that lower credit scores correlate with higher-risk drivers, so insurers factor this into their rate calculations. While bad credit doesn’t make you uninsurable, it often leads to higher premiums. Learn more about insurance scores.

What does 'insurance lapse' mean?

A lapse in coverage is when a policy is no longer active - as in, you do not currently have insurance coverage. It might only be one day, or it could be a few weeks or months. This can happen for various reasons (often a payment is late or missed) and often by accident, and can have serious repercussions if you don't fix the issue immediately. Some companies have a grace period if you miss a payment, but it's essential to talk to your company or agent to see the flexibility you have on late insurance payments. A lapse in coverage will be considered a negative factor when insurance companies evaluate your risk in the future, so do your best to avoid any lapse in coverage.

What if I can't find coverage?

Finding coverage can be tricky if you don't have prior coverage. However, some companies specifically work with high-risk drivers, and although you will likely pay more, it will help you establish coverage for the future. Drivers with DUIs and other serious infractions on their driving record typically have to file an SR-22 or FR-44 certificate of financial responsibility with their state's Department of Motor Vehicles in order to obtain car insurance. Some companies you might consider are GEICO, Progressive, Kemper, Dairyland, Direct Auto, and Assurance America, to name a few.

No prior coverage? No problem. Get quotes from top insurers quickly with The Zebra.

Sources:

Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
Nine ways to lower your auto insurance costs. Insurance Information Institute

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About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.