Does Car Insurance Offer Student Discounts?

November 11, 2025 by Student Discount Codes

Car insurance is a significant expense for students and young drivers, but many insurance companies recognize this challenge and offer special discounts to help students save. Whether you’re in high school, college, or graduate school, there are several ways to lower your car insurance premium as a student. Here’s a comprehensive look at student discounts in car insurance, how they work, and how to qualify.

What Are Student Discounts in Car Insurance?

Student discounts are special savings that car insurance companies offer to eligible students—usually those who maintain good grades, complete driver training courses, or attend school far from home. These discounts reward responsible behavior both in and out of the classroom and are designed to encourage safe driving habits and academic achievement.

Common Types of Student Discounts Offered by Car Insurance Companies

• Good Student Discount

  One of the most widely available student discounts. If you maintain a “B” average (usually a 3.0 GPA or higher) or are on the Dean’s List or Honor Roll, you may qualify for a percentage off your premium. Most major insurance providers—including State Farm, Allstate, Progressive, GEICO, Nationwide, Farmers, and AAA—offer some form of Good Student Discount.

• Distant Student Discount

  If you attend college more than a certain distance (often 100 miles) from your family’s home and don’t have regular access to a family car, many insurers will lower your rate. This discount reflects the reduced risk when the insured student isn’t driving regularly.

• Driver Training or Defensive Driving Discount

  Students who complete an approved driver’s education or defensive driving course may qualify for additional savings. This is common for both new and young drivers.

• Student Away at School Discount

  This is similar to the distant student discount and is often available if the student is attending college away from home without a car, but remains on the family policy.

• Other Youth and Teen Discounts

  Some insurers provide discounts just for being a full-time student, or for students who remain accident- and ticket-free during school years.

Who Is Eligible for Car Insurance Student Discounts?

• Full-time high school, college, or university students (some discounts may extend to part-time students)
• Students under a certain age (typically 16-25, but age requirements may vary by insurer)
• Students maintaining a “B” average or higher (or equivalent academic achievement)
• Students enrolled in approved driver education or defensive driving courses
• Students attending school a set distance from home (often 100+ miles) and not driving regularly

Always check with your insurer for specific requirements and documentation needed for each discount.

How Much Can Students Save with Car Insurance Discounts?

• Good student discounts typically range from 5% to 25% off your premium, depending on the insurer and your location.
• Distant student discounts can also save you a significant amount, especially if the student is rarely driving the insured vehicle.
• Driver training and defensive driving discounts are usually smaller (5%–10%), but can be combined with other savings.
• Multiple discounts can sometimes be stacked, leading to substantial overall savings.

How to Get a Student Discount on Car Insurance

1. Maintain Good Grades

   Keep your GPA at a “B” average or higher. Provide your insurance company with report cards, transcripts, or other official documentation as proof.

2. Complete an Approved Driver Training Course

   Sign up for and finish a certified driver’s education or defensive driving course. Submit your completion certificate to your insurance company for potential savings.

3. Let Your Insurer Know If You’re Away at School

   If you’re attending college far from home and don’t have your car with you, let your insurance provider know. You may qualify for a distant student or away-at-school discount.

4. Review Your Policy Annually

   Student discounts often require verification each year. Make sure you submit updated proof of enrollment, grades, or course completion when your policy renews.

5. Ask Your Agent About All Available Discounts

   Car insurance companies offer many types of savings—multi-policy, safe driver, anti-theft, and more. Always ask your agent to review your policy for every possible discount, including those for students.

6. Shop Around and Compare

   Not all insurers offer the same discounts or rates. Get quotes from several companies to find the best deal for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions: Student Car Insurance Discounts

How do I prove I qualify for a good student discount?

Most insurance companies require official documentation, such as a transcript, report card, or letter from your school showing your GPA or academic standing.

Are student discounts available for graduate students?

Yes, in most cases graduate students are eligible for student discounts if they meet age and enrollment requirements. Always check with your insurer for specific rules.

Can part-time students get a student discount?

Some companies allow part-time students to qualify, but most require full-time enrollment. If you’re a part-time student, ask your insurer for details.

Can student discounts be combined with other discounts?

Usually, yes. Student discounts can often be combined with other savings like multi-car, safe driver, or bundling discounts, maximizing your total savings.

What if my grades drop—will I lose the discount?

If your grades fall below the minimum required GPA, you may lose the good student discount at your next policy renewal. Work to keep your grades up for ongoing savings.

Summary: Affordable Car Insurance for Students

Nearly all major car insurance companies offer special discounts to students who demonstrate responsibility on the road and in the classroom. Good grades, safe driving habits, and keeping your insurer updated about your student status can translate into meaningful savings on your premium. Review your policy every year, maintain strong academics, and always ask your insurance agent about the latest discounts for students. Saving on car insurance while you’re in school is possible—you just need to know where to look and how to qualify.