Root Car Insurance Review 2025
Root Car Insurance is best known for offering affordable auto insurance that rewards safe driving, using a smartphone app to track driving habits. It’s a good option for tech-savvy drivers with clean records looking to save money. We give it 4 out of 5 stars for pricing, innovation, and ease of use.
At a Glance
Compare Quotes- Designed for drivers with strong driving habits—your rate is based on how well you drive
- Easy-to-use mobile app for quotes, claims, and policy management
- Offers usage-based pricing with potential savings for safe drivers
- No agents—everything is handled digitally
- SR-22 filing available for high-risk drivers
Root stands out for its unique approach to car insurance: it uses your actual driving behavior to determine your rate. That means if you’re a good driver, you’re more likely to get a better deal—something many traditional insurers don’t offer. We like Root because it puts control back in the driver’s hands. Everything, from getting a quote to filing a claim, happens in the mobile app, making the process fast and convenient.
What sets Root apart is its use of telematics to price policies fairly and transparently. It’s a great fit for people who drive safely and don’t mind using technology to save money. Users should like it for its simplicity, potential savings, and modern, app-based experience. While Root doesn’t offer as many policy extras as some bigger names, its value comes from rewarding responsible driving, not just demographics or credit scores.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Rewards safe drivers with lower premiums
- Fast, easy policy management through the mobile app
- No credit check required in some states ✓
- Not available in all states
- Limited coverage options and discounts
- Rates can increase if your driving habits change ✘
Insuranceopedia’s Take: Is Root Car Insurance Good?
Root Car Insurance is a solid choice for tech-savvy, safe drivers seeking affordable rates. Its app-based model uses telematics to assess driving behavior, rewarding cautious drivers with lower premiums. This approach can be particularly beneficial for younger drivers or those with limited credit history, as Root places less emphasis on traditional rating factors.
Customer feedback is mixed. Many users appreciate the intuitive app and the potential for significant savings. However, some have reported issues with the accuracy of driving assessments and challenges with customer service. For instance, while the app boasts a 4.7-star rating on the Apple App Store, the Better Business Bureau reports a lower average customer rating of 2.54 out of 5.
Root Car Insurance Rates
Root Car Insurance offers competitive rates, particularly for safe drivers. The average monthly premium for full coverage is approximately $116, while liability-only coverage averages around $65 per month. These rates are notably lower than the national average, which stands at about $207 per month for full coverage and $103 for liability-only coverage.
A key component of Root’s pricing model is the SafetyScore, derived from a test drive period using their mobile app. This score evaluates driving behaviors, including braking, turning, and phone use. A higher SafetyScore can lead to lower premiums, as it reflects safer driving habits. Conversely, riskier driving behaviors may result in higher rates or denial of coverage. This approach allows Root to tailor premiums more closely to individual driving patterns, potentially offering significant savings for conscientious drivers.
Average Root Car Insurance Rates By Age
Root Insurance offers competitive rates for young drivers, particularly those who demonstrate safe driving habits through its app-based telematics system. While exact rates can vary based on individual driving behavior and location, the following table provides estimated average monthly and annual premiums for drivers aged 16, 17, 18, and 21:
| Age | Average Monthly Premium | Average Annual Premium |
| 16 | $109 | $1,308 |
| 17 | $109 | $1,308 |
| 18 | $109 | $1,308 |
| 21 | $71 | $852 |
Average Root Car Insurance Rates By Driver Profile
Root Insurance primarily bases its rates on driving behavior, but factors such as credit history and driving record can also affect premiums. Here’s a breakdown of average monthly and annual rates for different driver profiles:
| Driver Profile | Monthly Premium | Annual Premium |
| Good credit & clean driving record | $65 | $780 |
| Poor credit | $96 | $1,152 |
| One recent at-fault accident | $81 | $972 |
Is Root Car Insurance Expensive Compared To Other Companies?
Root Insurance is generally more affordable than many traditional insurers, particularly for drivers with safe driving habits. Its telematics-based pricing model allows for personalized rates, often resulting in lower premiums for cautious drivers. Here’s how Root’s average rates compare to other major insurance providers:
| Company | Monthly Premium | Annual Premium |
| Root | $93 | $1,120 |
| Travelers | $117 | $1,406 |
| State Farm | $180 | $2,167 |
| Allstate | $246 | $2,960 |
Root Auto Insurance Claims
Filing a claim with Root is straightforward and can be done 24/7 through the Root mobile app or online. Simply open the app, tap “File a claim,” and follow the prompts to provide details about the incident, including photos if available. For assistance, you can call Root’s claims department at 866-980-9431 during business hours.
Root Car Insurance Coverage
Root offers most of the standard auto insurance coverages you’d expect, with a few perks and limitations that set it apart from traditional insurers. Here’s a closer look at what they offer:
Liability Coverage
This is the basic coverage required in almost every state. It includes bodily injury liability, which pays for injuries you cause to others in an at-fault accident, and property damage liability, which covers damage to someone else’s vehicle or property. Root will help you meet your state’s minimum requirements, but you can also choose higher limits if you want more protection.
Collision Coverage
Collision covers damage to your car when you hit another vehicle or object, like a guardrail or light pole. It doesn’t matter who caused the accident — if your car is damaged in a crash, this coverage helps pay for repairs or replacement. Deductibles apply, and you can choose the amount when setting up your policy.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive pays for damage from events other than a crash. That includes theft, vandalism, natural disasters, fire, falling objects (like tree branches), or hitting an animal. Like collision, this is optional coverage, but it’s often required if you’re leasing or financing your car.
Uninsured And Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you’re in an accident caused by someone who has no insurance or not enough coverage to pay for your injuries or damages, this protection steps in. Some states require it, and it’s a good idea in areas where uninsured driving is common. Root provides both uninsured motorist bodily injury and property damage coverage where allowed.
Medical Payments (Medpay) And Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
MedPay is a type of coverage that helps pay medical bills for you and your passengers after an accident, no matter who was at fault. It can also cover ambulance fees or funeral costs. PIP offers broader protection in no-fault states, covering medical bills, lost wages, and even essential services like childcare while you recover. Whether you get MedPay or PIP depends on your state laws.
Roadside Assistance
Unlike many insurers that charge extra, Root includes roadside assistance with every policy. It covers things like towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, emergency fuel delivery, and lockout services. There’s no separate deductible for using it, though some usage limits may apply.
Rental Car Reimbursement
If your car is in the shop after a covered claim, this optional coverage helps pay for a rental vehicle so you’re not stranded. Root lets you add this to your policy for an additional premium. You’ll need to select your coverage limit and daily rental allowance when enrolling.
Root Car Insurance Availability
As of April 2025, Root Car Insurance is available in 34 U.S. states. Here’s a breakdown:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
Pros And Cons Of Root Car Insurance
Pros:
- Driving habits determine your rate
- Free roadside assistance is included
- Easy-to-use mobile app
Cons:
- Not available in all states
- Coverage denied to risky drivers
- Fewer discount options than others
Root Car Insurance Discounts
| Discount Type | Description |
| Safe Driving Discount | Earn up to 30% off based on your driving behavior during the Root test drive. |
| Focused Driving Discount | Receive an additional discount (up to 10%) for minimizing phone use while driving. |
| Good Student Discount | Full-time students with a “B” average or higher may qualify for a discount. |
| Anti-Theft Device Discount | Vehicles equipped with anti-theft systems can receive a discount on the Comprehensive portion of the premium. |
| Passive Restraint Discount | Cars with factory-installed airbags and seatbelts may qualify for discounts on Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection premiums. |
| Bundling Discount | Save when you bundle your Root car insurance with a Root renters insurance policy. |
| Paid-in-Full Discount | Paying your policy premium in full, rather than in monthly installments, can lead to savings. |
| Referral Program | Earn rewards when you refer friends who sign up for Root insurance. |
Key Features Of Root Car Insurance
Here is a look at Root’s key features:
Usage-Based Pricing
Root determines your insurance premium primarily based on your driving behavior. By using their mobile app, Root monitors factors like braking, speed, and phone usage during a test drive period. Safer driving habits can lead to lower premiums.
Mobile App Integration
The Root mobile app serves as a central hub for policy management. Through the app, you can obtain quotes, manage your policy, file claims, and access digital ID cards. This digital-first approach streamlines the insurance experience.
Roadside Assistance Included
Every Root policy includes roadside assistance at no additional cost. This service covers up to three incidents per six-month policy term, with a limit of $100 per incident. Services include towing, battery jumps, and lockout assistance.
Rental Car Reimbursement
Root offers optional rental car reimbursement coverage. If your vehicle is in the shop due to a covered claim, this coverage helps pay for a rental car or rideshare services, ensuring you stay mobile during repairs.
SR-22 Filing Support
For drivers required to file an SR-22 form, Root provides assistance in submitting this certificate to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. This feature is beneficial for those needing to prove financial responsibility after certain violations.
Compare Root With Other Insurance Companies
App-based, usage-based pricing for safe drivers.
Traditional insurer with broad coverage options and discounts.
Nationwide presence with strong agent network and competitive rates.
Root Insurance Reviews
Positive Reviews
Reddit
“I purchased the insurance in 2 minutes on their app. Carvana and Root make a car purchase stress-free.”
— u/Jsb1922
BBB
“I’m thankful for the Root family for making the transition easy to join and rewarding good drivers with good rates, which a lot of other companies don’t do.”
— Clem D, April 10, 2025
Negative Reviews
Reddit
“ROOT INSURANCE IS A HEAPING PILE OF CRAP. 10/10 DRIVING TEST SCORE AND RATES INCREASED $300+ (NEW CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE).”
— u/empireboards
BBB
“The most awful insurance I have ever seen. Stay away from it. They give you a cheap price, then after 30 days, they say it was a trial period and increase the price. Not recommended!”
— Woodsy F, April 7, 2025
Root Insurance Contact Information
How To Cancel Root Car Insurance
You can cancel your Root car insurance policy through the mobile app, by phone, or via email:
Via The Root App:
- Open the Root app.
- Navigate to ‘Policy & Payments’.
- Select ‘Policy’.
- Tap ‘Cancel my Policy’.
- Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation process.
By Phone:
Call customer service at 866-980-9431 during business hours (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET).
By Email:
Send a cancellation request to help@joinroot.com. Include your full name, policy number, and the date you want to cancel.
Our Methodology
To evaluate Root Insurance, we considered the following criteria:
● Coverage Options: Assessed the range of standard and optional coverages offered.
● Pricing Structure: Analyzed the usage-based pricing model and potential savings for safe drivers.
● Customer Experience: Reviewed customer feedback regarding the mobile app, claims process, and customer service.
● Availability: Checked the number of states where Root operates.
● Discounts: Identified available discounts and their accessibility to policyholders.
Each factor was rated on a scale from 1 to 5, with the overall rating reflecting the average of these scores.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
FAQs
Is Root good at paying out claims?
Root’s claim experiences vary. Some customers report quick payouts and helpful service, while others mention delays and communication issues. Your experience may depend on the complexity of the claim and individual circumstances.
Is Root insurance legit?
Yes, Root is a legitimate insurance company. Founded in 2015, it’s licensed in multiple states and accredited by the Better Business Bureau. It operates as a publicly traded company, offering auto insurance policies based on driving behavior.
Is AAA expensive?
Root’s pricing is competitive, especially for safe drivers. It uses telematics to assess driving habits, potentially offering lower rates to those with good driving behavior. However, rates can vary based on individual driving patterns and other factors.
Does Root Have a Good Reputation?
Root Insurance has a mixed reputation. While many customers appreciate its usage-based pricing and user-friendly app, others have reported issues with claims processing and customer service.
