Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students in Virginia 2026
State Farm is one of the best car insurance companies for college students in Virginia. USAA is the cheapest provider, with an average annual rate of $1,716.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
College students in Virginia often face higher car insurance costs simply because most drivers under 25 are considered higher risk. This age group typically pays steeper premiums compared to older, more experienced drivers, which makes finding budget-friendly coverage a real challenge.
To help narrow the search, our analysis highlights the insurers offering the most competitive rates for young drivers in Virginia. USAA consistently provides one of the most affordable options for college students, with average annual premiums around $1,716. Meanwhile, for those seeking full coverage, Virginia Farm Bureau stands out with rates averaging about $1,380 per year, making it one of the lowest-cost choices for comprehensive protection.
Key Takeaways
Student drivers in Virginia must have car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
USAA offers the cheapest insurance policy for students in Virginia, at an average annual rate of $1,716.
There are multiple ways to reduce the cost of car insurance for students in Virginia.
Best Car Insurance Companies For College Students In Virginia
When selecting car insurance for college students in Virginia, you need to consider your priorities and pick a policy that matches your needs, whether that is low rates or comprehensive coverage.
Use the table below to see our picks for the best auto insurers for students in Virginia.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| GEICO | $2,160 |
| Erie | $1,932 |
| State Farm | $2,124 |
| Progressive | $2,280 |
| USAA | $1,716 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Liability-Only Car Insurance For College Students In Virginia
Minimum coverage policies are often an effective way to decrease overall costs, but can leave you vulnerable in an accident. These low-cost plans will only cover the state minimum insurance needed to operate a vehicle, which means paying expenses out of pocket.
Minimum coverage policies are great options for college students as they provide the insurance needed to drive legally while keeping costs low.
As you can see from the table below, GEICO is the cheapest average option at $744 per year.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Progressive | $840 |
| State Farm | $816 |
| Erie | $912 |
| Nationwide | $888 |
| GEICO | $744 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance For College Students In Virginia
College students who commute to campus or routinely drive for work should consider a full coverage policy over minimum coverage. These plans offer additional protection, often including liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage.
While the full coverage policies offer more protection, they come at a higher cost. It’s essential to weigh the benefits of the additional insurance against the extra monthly cost.
Virginia Farm Bureau is the cheapest full coverage car insurance policy for students in Virginia, at an average annual rate of $1,380.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| GEICO | $1,404 |
| Virginia Farm Bureau | $1,380 |
| Erie | $1,452 |
| Travelers | $1,416 |
| Auto-Owners | $1,608 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Low-Mileage In Virginia
If you’re a college student who doesn’t plan on driving much throughout the school year, there’s no reason to pay for insurance you don’t need. While you’ll still need to maintain the state minimum auto insurance, most low-mileage policies offer discounted rates if you stay below a certain number of miles yearly.
The limit will vary between insurance companies but is usually around 7,500 to 10,000 miles annually.
Use the table below to view the cheapest low-mileage rates for college drivers in Virginia.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| GEICO | $840 |
| Progressive | $780 |
| State Farm | $900 |
| Lemonade | $660 |
| Nationwide | $720 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Driving Violations In Virginia
Driving violations can significantly increase the amount a driver pays for monthly coverage, regardless of age. College students will likely experience an even more significant rate increase after an accident or ticket due to their already high-risk rating.
One way to mitigate the damage of a driving violation is to work with a company like Erie that specializes in insuring motorists with a history of tickets or accidents.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Virginia Farm Bureau | $1,776 |
| Travelers | $2,124 |
| Erie | $1,764 |
| GEICO | $2,172 |
| USAA | $1,812 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For College Students In Virginia – By City
Where you live in Virginia can have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums.
Use the table below to view average rates for different cities in Virginia.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
| Virginia Beach | $180 |
| Charlottesville | $165 |
| Lynchburg | $166 |
| Harrisonburg | $155 |
| Roanoke | $159 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 18-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
Erie offers the cheapest rates for 18-year-old college drivers in Virginia, at an average monthly cost of $263.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $422 |
| Erie | $263 |
| Allstate | $511 |
| USAA | $294 |
| State Farm | $380 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 19-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
USAA provides the cheapest policy for 19-year-old college students in Virginia, averaging $265 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Progressive | $405 |
| GEICO | $375 |
| Travelers | $391 |
| State Farm | $353 |
| USAA | $265 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 20-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
The cheapest auto insurance rates for a 20-year-old college driver can be found with USAA, averaging $242 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $335 |
| USAA | $242 |
| Nationwide | $355 |
| GEICO | $324 |
| Progressive | $356 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 21-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
The most affordable college student car insurance policy for a 21-year-old can be found at USAA, with an average monthly cost of $235.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $260 |
| Auto‑Owners | $291 |
| USAA | $235 |
| Travelers | $275 |
| State Farm | $246 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 22-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
22-year-old student car insurance can be found from $224 per month, with a State Farm auto policy.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $224 |
| Farmers | $273 |
| USAA | $226 |
| GEICO | $240 |
| Progressive | $255 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 23-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
23-year-old college drivers can find affordable insurance from State Farm at an average monthly cost of $215.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Progressive | $245 |
| State Farm | $215 |
| Travelers | $248 |
| Allstate | $262 |
| GEICO | $224 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 24-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
The cheapest car insurance policy for a 24-year-old college student is $207 per month, which can be found with State Farm.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Progressive | $228 |
| GEICO | $211 |
| Farmers | $244 |
| State Farm | $207 |
| State‑Auto | $235 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 25-Year-Old College Students In Virginia
USAA offers the cheapest auto policies for 25-year-old college students in Virginia at $152 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| USAA | $152 |
| Travelers | $185 |
| State Farm | $159 |
| Progressive | $194 |
| GEICO | $180 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance On Family Policy Vs. Individual Policy
| Insurance Company | Family Policy | Individual Student Policy |
| Progressive | $120 | $350 |
| GEICO | $110 | $320 |
| USAA | $90 | $240 |
| Travelers | $130 | $390 |
| State Farm | $105 | $330 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
How Can College Students Save Money On Car Insurance In Virginia
For many college students in Virginia, car insurance can feel like a financial burden. Premiums are often higher compared to drivers in their late 20s, which makes affordability a challenge. If staying on a parent’s policy isn’t an option, students need practical strategies to cut costs and keep monthly payments manageable.
Security And Safety Upgrades
Insurance companies often reward drivers who take steps to protect their vehicles. Adding features like car alarms, anti-theft devices, or advanced safety technology can reduce the risk of damage or theft. These improvements may lower premiums by up to $5% depending on the insurer. Even small upgrades can make a noticeable difference in overall costs.
Student Discounts
Academic performance isn’t the only way to qualify for savings. While good grades often unlock reduced rates, insurers also offer other student-focused discounts:
- Distant student discount for those attending college far from home without regular access to the car
- Safe driver discount for maintaining a clean driving record
- Driver education discount for completing certified training programs
These options can collectively help students save several dollars each month.
Used vs. New Vehicles
Owning a brand-new car might seem appealing, but it usually comes with higher insurance costs. Since newer models are more expensive to repair or replace, insurers charge more to cover them. A reliable used car, on the other hand, often results in lower premiums. For students balancing tuition, rent, and other expenses, choosing a used vehicle can be a smart financial move.
Affiliation Discounts
Membership in certain organizations can also unlock savings. Students involved in fraternities, sororities, honor societies, or alumni associations may qualify for reduced rates depending on the insurer. These affiliations can cut monthly premiums by several dollars, making them a valuable perk of campus involvement.
How To Buy Car Insurance As A College Student In Virginia
Finding the right auto insurance in Virginia can feel overwhelming when you’re juggling classes, exams, and tight budgets. The good news is that modern comparison platforms make the process straightforward, giving students quick access to affordable options without the stress.
To make sure you’re prepared, here’s a clear breakdown of the steps every college student should follow when securing coverage:
Step 1: Collect Essential Details First
Before requesting quotes, have your vehicle information, driver’s license number, personal details for anyone on the policy, and a record of your driving history ready. This ensures the process runs smoothly.
Step 2: Understand Virginia’s Coverage Requirements
Every driver in Virginia must meet the state’s minimum liability standards. Make sure your policy complies with these legal requirements so you avoid penalties and remain protected.
Step 3: Decide How You’ll Purchase
Virginia students can either buy coverage online or work directly with a local insurance agent. Online platforms are fast and convenient, while agents may provide more personalized guidance.
Step 4: Compare Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first offer. Review at least three different quotes from separate carriers. This gives you a better chance of finding a policy that balances affordability with strong protection.
Step 5: Finalize Your Policy
Once you’ve chosen the best option, purchase the policy and notify your previous insurer about the switch. This prevents gaps in coverage and keeps your record clean.
Do College Students Need Their Own Insurance, Or Can They Stay On A Parent’s?
Car insurance rules for students in Virginia aren’t always black and white. Whether you can remain on a parent’s policy or need to purchase your own depends on where you live and how your driving situation is set up. Let’s break down the possibilities.
When Students May Need Their Own Policy
The most common reason a college student must secure independent coverage is a change of residence. If you establish a permanent address separate from your parents—such as renting an apartment near campus—you’ll typically be required to purchase a new policy registered to that location. This ensures compliance with Virginia’s insurance laws and keeps your coverage valid.
Staying On A Parent’s Car Insurance Plan
Unlike health insurance, which has strict age limits, auto insurance doesn’t cut off dependents at a certain age. As long as you live at home or continue to use your parents’ address as your permanent residence while attending college, you can remain on their policy. This option often saves money and simplifies the process for students who only drive occasionally or share a family vehicle.
Virginia Car Insurance Laws
Virginia is one of the many states requiring motorists to carry auto insurance if they plan on operating a vehicle. Most of the required coverages are similar to other places in the United States, and Virginia drivers do not require Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
Virginia auto insurance requirements include:
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident
- $50,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury per person
- $100,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury per accident
Compare College Student Rates To Other U.S. States
| State | Average Annual Premium |
| Alabama | $3,460 |
| Alaska | $3,276 |
| Arizona | $3,412 |
| Arkansas | $3,557 |
| California | $4,016 |
| Colorado | $3,937 |
| Connecticut | $3,325 |
| Delaware | $3,663 |
| Florida | $4,294 |
| Georgia | $3,570 |
| Hawaii | $3,117 |
| Idaho | $3,028 |
| Illinois | $3,132 |
| Indiana | $3,115 |
| Iowa | $3,230 |
| Kansas | $3,500 |
| Kentucky | $3,828 |
| Louisiana | $4,483 |
| Maine | $2,775 |
| Maryland | $3,346 |
| Massachusetts | $3,326 |
| Michigan | $3,952 |
| Minnesota | $3,511 |
| Mississippi | $3,608 |
| Missouri | $3,582 |
| Montana | $3,793 |
| Nebraska | $3,502 |
| Nevada | $3,660 |
| New Hampshire | $2,865 |
| New Jersey | $3,502 |
| New Mexico | $3,649 |
| New York | $3,470 |
| North Carolina | $3,341 |
| North Dakota | $3,265 |
| Ohio | $3,017 |
| Oklahoma | $3,738 |
| Oregon | $3,278 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,472 |
| Rhode Island | $3,661 |
| South Carolina | $3,422 |
| South Dakota | $3,880 |
| Tennessee | $3,277 |
| Texas | $3,643 |
| Utah | $3,425 |
| Vermont | $2,919 |
| Virginia | $3,069 |
| Washington | $3,208 |
| West Virginia | $3,605 |
| Wisconsin | $3,264 |
| Wyoming | $3,358 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Our Methodology
To find the cheapest car insurance rates for college students in Virginia, we analyzed findings from numerous car insurance rating sites, some of which analyzed rates from public filings obtained by Quadrant Information Services. We also utilize the combined twenty-five years of experience from our team of insurance experts to evaluate each carrier.
It’s important to note that even though the rates listed in this guide are accurate, premiums shift daily and can fluctuate based on each driver.
About Doug Schaffer
