What sets your car insurance price
Insurers price a policy from a few dozen inputs. These ten move the bill most, and several of them are limited or banned in some states.
You and your record
What insurers learn about the people on the policy, and how much each item can move the bill.
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Your age, updated Oct 26, 2026
Age and driving experience
Teens have almost 3x the fatal crash rate of drivers 20+; HI, MA and NC limit age rating. Course discounts from 55.
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Your record, updated Oct 26, 2026
Driving record
Tickets and at-fault crashes raise prices; OR and MD look back 3 years, CA Good Driver rates are 20%+ lower.
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Your record, updated Oct 26, 2026
Credit-based insurance scores
Allowed in most states, barred from auto rates in CA, HI, MA and MI. Your rights when credit raises the price.
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Your record, updated Oct 26, 2026
Claims history
A CLUE report shows up to 7 years of auto claims. Get a free copy every 12 months and fix errors before you shop.
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Coverage gaps, updated Oct 26, 2026
Insurance lapse
A gap can cost you twice: state penalties (a $600 fee in Virginia) and a higher price at the next quote.
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Rating rules, updated Oct 26, 2026
Gender and marital status
Six states ban gender in car insurance pricing; HI, MA and MI also bar marital status. How it works elsewhere.
Your car and where it sleeps
The vehicle, the miles and the ZIP code it is garaged in.
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Where it sleeps, updated Oct 26, 2026
Location and ZIP code
2023 state averages ran from $808 to $1,864 per car. Why your address matters and where ZIP codes are barred.
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Your car, updated Oct 26, 2026
Vehicle make and model
The car drives collision and comprehensive, $464 and $238 a year on average in 2023. How to check a model first.
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How far you drive, updated Oct 26, 2026
Annual mileage
One of three rating factors named in California law, and a common discount elsewhere. How miles are checked.
The policy you pick
Limits, deductibles and optional coverages: the part of the price you choose.
