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The minimum age to obtain car insurance differs based on state laws and insurance company guidelines.

In general, one must be an adult (18 or older) to obtain an insurance policy. If you are younger than 18 and a minor, then state laws and insurance companies guidelines will require you to have a parent or guardian sign on legal documents, such as an insurance policy, with you.

You can buy an auto insurance policy if you are old enough to have a driver’s license or own a car. Still, if you are a minor, your parent or guardian will usually have to sign the insurance contract with you. It may be in the driver’s and the parent’s best interest to have the teen driver on the parent’s policy. Read our parent’s guide to insurance for teen drivers to find out if this is your best option.

If you are minor and what to own and insure a vehicle you should check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and insurance regulator to see if there is a minimum age set and what extra measures you may need to take until you become 18 and considered an adult.

Michelle Megna contributed to this story.

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Prachi is an insurance writer with a master’s degree in business administration. She specializes in creating clear, informative content that helps readers understand their insurance options and make smart, confident financial decisions.
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