What Happens When You Add a New Driver to Your Policy?

Adding a new driver to your auto insurance policy is a significant decision that can influence your coverage and premiums. Whether it’s a teenage child obtaining their learner’s permit, a spouse or a roommate, it’s essential to understand the implications and state-specific considerations.

Who to Add to Your Policy

Generally, any licensed individual residing in your household with regular vehicle access should be included in your auto insurance policy. This may include the following:

• Teen drivers—In Georgia, while a teen holds a learner’s permit, they may not need to be listed on your policy. However, once they obtain a driver’s license, it’s imperative to add them. Be aware that adding a young driver can increase your premiums due to their inexperience.

• Spouses and partners—Married couples or partners living together should ensure both individuals are listed on the policy, especially if both will be driving the insured vehicle(s).

• Roommates—If you share your vehicle with a roommate, it’s advisable to add them to your policy to ensure coverage in case of an accident.

How It May Impact on Premiums

Adding a new driver can affect your insurance premiums. Factors influencing this include the new driver’s age, driving history and experience. For instance, adding a teenage driver may lead to higher premiums due to increased risk, while adding an experienced driver with a clean record might have minimal impact.

Steps to Adding a New Driver

Adding a new driver to your auto insurance policy in Georgia is a straightforward process, but acting promptly and understanding the implications is essential. Take the following steps to get started:

• Contact your insurance provider and inform them about the new driver.

• Provide details such as the driver’s full name, date of birth, driver’s license number and driving history.

• Review policy adjustments to understand how the addition affects your coverage and premiums.

• Confirm the update to ensure the new driver is officially added to your policy.

By keeping your insurer informed and ensuring all regular drivers are listed on your policy, you can maintain adequate coverage and protect yourself from potential financial and legal complications. Contact D. Ward Insurance Services today to learn more.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.