Do You Need Auto Insurance For A Learner Permit?
In short, yes you need auto insurance for a learners permit to legally operate a vehicle. The reason is that any vehicle under your control must be able to compensate others in the event of an accident. The way of going about getting auto insurance while on a learners permit is slightly different than purchasing insurance on your own but the end result will be the same. Each state has specific guidelines regarding auto insurance requirements but there is some consistency among the more basic guidelines which should be followed.
Any operator of an automobile must be able to provide proof of insurance at all times regardless of ownership. A common scenario is for a teen driver to be a rider on their parents auto insurance policy. Even though they may not own the vehicle nor have their own insurance policy they must still provide valid proof of insurance. Proof of insurance normally consist of a card with the name of the insured individual, active dates of coverage, a policy number and identifying vehicle information such as a VIN and license plate number.
When driving on the learner's permit always verify that you are currently covered by calling the insurance company. Sometimes there is a delay when updating information or adding additional persons to an auto insurance policy. Getting into an accident without proper insurance can be a nightmare for both parties involved. Being an active rider on another persons auto insurance policy will increase costs but the amount will vary based on geographic location, the type of insurance coverage and whether or not there are any price reductions applicable such as a good student discount.
Older individuals who may be living on their own but are currently using a learner's permit until a valid license is provided may have to take additional steps. Many national and regional auto insurance companies will provide insurance for adults on learners permits. Be sure to make clear of your license and driving status as any omission of facts could jeopardize your insurance coverage. As with any type of insurance, any type of discrepancy when applying for coverage could lead to immediate cancellation of the policy leaving you vulnerable to significant expenses or lawsuit.
Every state has specific requirements that an individual with a learner's permit must follow in order to legally operate a vehicle. This normally includes having an adult with a valid drivers license accompany the individual with a learner's permit at all times and be positioned in the passenger seat. Some states even place additional requirements such as only allowing drivers with learner's permits to operate a vehicle during daylight hours. Also, ensure the accompanying adult is sober and lucid as any impairment could jeopardize your driving status even if you do nothing wrong.
Is important to remember that when driving on a learner's permit it is not the same as been a fully licensed driver recognized by the state and comes with significant limitations. It also means that when operating other peoples vehicles the insurance coverage will not be under your name. As a driver with a learner's permit you are essentially at the whim of the individual who is providing insurance coverage and the vehicle. Verify that the current active insurance coverage provides enough protection in the event of an accident. Older vehicles tend only to have liability coverage and not full coverage with comprehensive and collision. This is important because if you get in an accident it could severely impact a family members insurance policy forcing them to lose coverage or pay significantly higher insurance premiums.
