How to Buy Car Insurance as a Senior

Is Car Insurance Higher for Seniors?

Car insurance rates start low for senior drivers but start climbing around age 70. That's because as people age, they may develop physical, cognitive and visual issues that lead to higher crash rates. Older drivers are more prone to serious injuries in these accidents, which can lead to expensive hospital bills and insurance claims. Car insurance companies make up for the increased risk by raising rates for drivers starting in their mid-70s.

How Much Does Car Insurance for Seniors Cost?

Many factors affect the amount you pay for a car insurance premium, and age is one of them. In general, more experienced drivers pay less for car insurance compared to younger drivers because they tend to have more time behind the wheel and exhibit safer driving behaviors. As people reach their senior years, however, the likelihood of them being involved in a crash and filing a claim increases.

As a result, the average cost of a car insurance policy drops to its lowest level around middle age, then starts creeping back up again. Here's what to expect, according to Experian data:

Source: Experian data as of April 2025; based on latest 24 months of policies sold by Experian
Note: Costs above are a blended average of full and minimum coverage policies

These figures are averages, and your premium may be higher or lower, depending on the situation. Your rate may also be affected by a host of other factors such as gender, location, vehicle and driving record.

How to Get Car Insurance as a Senior

While the cost of an auto insurance policy can change as you get older, the process to buy one doesn't. Here are some steps you can take to find the right policy for you.

1. Consider Your Needs

It's a good idea to review your auto policy when your driving habits and needs change, which may happen once you reach retirement age. For instance, you might consider getting pay-per-mile car insurance if you no longer have a daily commute. You may decide to add roadside assistance for convenience, while MedPay can financially help if you're especially vulnerable to injuries. Additionally, you may decide to drop full coverage if you paid off your car loan and want to save money.

2. Gather Quotes

To find the best deal, get quotes from several car insurance companies. You can do this yourself online or work with an insurance agent to determine your needs and shop offers on your behalf. The types of coverages, policy limits and deductible amounts you choose should match across quotes to make a true apples-to-apples comparison.

3. Select an Insurer

Once you've compared quotes and researched car insurance companies, choose the one you want to work with. You'll need information about yourself and the vehicle when buying the policy, and may be able to choose how you submit the application. Insurers may allow you to apply online, over the phone or at a physical location.

How to Save on Car Insurance as a Senior

While prices increase as you age, it's still possible to save money on car insurance. Here are some options:

Look for Discounts

Insurance companies typically offer auto insurance discounts, which help customers lower their rates. Research your options across several car insurance companies to see what you may qualify for. Some insurers offer discounts designed specifically for mature drivers, or you may save by owning a home, maintaining a good driving record, and bundling auto and home insurance.

Dozens of states also have laws requiring insurance companies to offer a discount to seniors who complete a defensive driving course.

Increase Your Deductible

Your auto insurance deductible is the amount of money you pay out of pocket before your coverage kicks in when you file a claim. Deductibles typically range from $0 to $2,000, and choosing a higher deductible usually lowers your premiums. Just don't raise your deductible so high that you'd struggle to pay it in the event you file a claim. Keeping your emergency fund padded can help ensure you can cover your deductible if you need to.

Review Your Coverage Regularly

Shopping around for car insurance could reveal more affordable coverage elsewhere. You can get insurance quotes online, by calling the insurance company or by working with an independent insurance agent. To save time, you can use Experian's car insurance comparison tool to get quotes from more than 40 top insurance carriers all in one place.

Improve Your Credit Score

In most states, car insurance companies can use your credit-based insurance score when calculating your rate. These scores differ from the ones lenders use, but both kinds are generated using information from your consumer credit report. Checking your credit score can give you an idea of where your credit-based insurance score may fall. If your credit score needs work, you can take steps to improve your credit and potentially lower your car insurance premium.

Opt For Usage-Based Insurance

Seniors typically drive the fewest miles among all age groups—a driving habit that can help you save money on car insurance. For instance, your insurer may provide a discount when you self-report a low annual mileage. Another option is enrolling in usage-based car insurance, which monitors your driving with smartphone apps or devices installed in your car. When the program picks up on your low mileage and other safe driving habits, you can lower your premiums.

The Bottom Line

Buying car insurance as a senior is similar to buying it as an adult, with a few important changes. It starts by assessing any changes in your finances or driving habits. Based on your new needs, you can get quotes and research available discounts.

If you're looking to maximize your savings on a new car insurance policy, take some time to improve your credit. Check your FICO^® Score^Θ regularly and review your credit report to find out if you need to take action, then take steps to address potential issues that you see.

This process can take time, but it can ultimately save you a lot, both when you apply for credit, and when you apply for an auto insurance policy.