With this in mind, Claire Wills-Mckissick, a temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, offers top tips on how young drivers can save money.
According to Confused.com’s Price Index (15 January 2025), 17-year-olds pay an average of £2,404 [2] for their annual insurance policy. Here are a few tips to help reduce this cost:
- Shop around – Don’t settle for the first quote. Use price comparison tools for annual quotes and explore both comprehensive and third-party options.
- Consider Black Box insurance – Telematics can adjust premiums based on your driving habits.
- Add an experienced named driver – Having an experienced driver on your insurance policy can reduce costs, but make sure you are listed as the primary driver to avoid the illegal practice of ‘fronting’.
- Increase your voluntary excess – If possible, raising your excess can help reduce your premium.
- Pay annually – Many insurers offer discounts for paying your policy in full upfront.
- Avoid add-ons – While extras may be tempting, sticking to a basic policy will save you money.
- Take an advanced driving course – These courses can boost your confidence and skills in various driving conditions and may reduce premiums by up to 15% [3]. Options include IAM Roadsmart, Pass Plus, and AA Qualified Driver lessons.
- Borrow a parent’s car – Instead of buying your own, consider borrowing a parent’s car when needed and using temporary car insurance.
Choosing the right car can also significantly impact insurance costs. Opting for a smaller engine often results in lower premiums, while selecting a vehicle with a lower risk rating can help reduce costs. Checking fuel efficiency can lead to long-term savings and avoid modifications, as customisations can increase insurance and running expenses.
- Keep Up with Car Maintenance
Avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly with the FLOWER method [4] – a simple way to remember essential maintenance checks that save you money in the long run.
Fuel – Ensure you have adequate fuel levels to support your car’s longevity and performance.
Lights – Regularly check exterior lights to ensure optimal visibility for both you and other road users.
Oil – Learn how to top up and change your oil to keep your car running smoothly.
Water – Regularly check all fluid levels, including water and screen wash to support greater vehicle performance and safety.
Electrics – Ensure your battery is fully charged and all electrical components are working.
Rubber – Check your tyres’ condition, tread depth, and pressure.
- Drive Smart
There are also additional cost-saving measures while driving:
- Drive safely at a steady speed, avoid idling, and stick to speed limits to prevent fines and penalty points.
- Search for the cheapest petrol stations and car parks or find free parking ahead of your journey.
- Avoid misfuelling, a mistake that around 150,000 Brits make annually [5], according to the RAC.
- When it’s time for MOT and servicing, shop around; many garages offer discounts, especially for early bookings.