Almost every auto insurer offers discounts, but many of them are only applied if you ask. Going through the list below with your agent or insurer at renewal is one of the easiest ways to get discount car insurance without changing companies or reducing your coverage.
Discount names and amounts differ between insurers and states, so treat this as a checklist rather than a guarantee.
Discounts fall into five groups: driver, vehicle, policy, payment and loyalty.
Stacking several small discounts often saves more than one big one.
Re-check your discounts every year, because your eligibility changes over time.
Driver discounts
1. Safe driver / claims-free
Given to drivers with no at-fault accidents or major violations for a set number of years, often three to five.
2. Good student
Full-time high school or college students with good grades (commonly a B average or better) can qualify. Proof such as a report card is usually required. More tips for young drivers are in our guide to car insurance for new drivers.
3. Defensive driving course
Completing an approved course can earn a discount, especially for older drivers in some states.
4. Student away at school
If a listed student lives at college far from home without a car, many insurers reduce the rate for that driver.
5. Usage-based / telematics
Programs that track how you drive through an app or device can reward smooth braking, lower speeds and less late-night driving.
Vehicle discounts
6. Anti-theft devices
Alarms, immobilizers and tracking systems can lower the comprehensive part of your premium.
7. Safety features
Airbags, anti-lock brakes and newer driver-assistance features may qualify for a discount with some insurers.
8. Low mileage
Driving fewer miles than average, for example if you work from home, often lowers your rate.
9. New car
Some insurers discount vehicles that are only a few model years old.
Policy discounts
10. Multi-policy (bundling)
Combining auto with homeowners, renters or life insurance at the same company. Home insurance has its own discount list, too; see our home insurance discounts guide.
11. Multi-car
Insuring two or more vehicles on one policy.
12. Affiliation or employer
Members of certain employers, alumni groups, professional associations or the military may get group rates.
Payment discounts
13. Pay in full
Paying the whole term upfront avoids installment fees and often earns a discount.
14. Paperless and automatic payments
E-documents and automatic bank payments can each carry a small discount.
Loyalty and timing
15. Early shopper and loyalty
Some companies reward you for getting a quote days or weeks before your current policy ends, and others for staying several years. Loyalty discounts are useful, but still compare prices; staying is not always cheaper.
How to make sure you get every discount
Write down your situation: drivers, grades, mileage, devices on your car and other policies you hold.
Ask each insurer for a full list of available discounts in your state.
Compare the final price after discounts, not the headline discount percentage. Our online comparison guide explains how.
Frequently asked questions
Which car insurance discount saves the most?
It depends on the insurer, but bundling, safe driver and usage-based programs are often among the largest.
Can discounts be removed?
Yes. If you have an at-fault accident, your student’s grades drop or you stop paying automatically, the related discount may end at renewal.
This article is general information, not insurance advice. Available discounts and amounts vary by insurer and state.
