Is Your Learner’s Permitted Teen Covered?

Teenagers can't be expected to get behind the wheel of a car on the day of their driver’s test and ace the exam without having had any practice beforehand. A learner's permit allows an unlicensed teen to practice driving in real-world conditions as long as they have an adult present. This gives them valuable, firsthand experience in driving, helping them pass their test and become better drivers in general.

Generally, notifying your Tampa auto insurance company that your teenage son or daughter has received his or her learner's permit is sufficient to ensure that they’re covered under your policy. Because the teen is not yet a licensed driver and cannot drive alone, many insurance companies will not officially add them to the policy while they have a learner's permit--but some may. Either way, contact your insurer or agent to find out how your insurance company handles this situation.

If your teen drives another adult’s car with their permission, he or she is likely covered under that individual’s insurance policy. Before any other adult allows your teen to drive their vehicle, have a discussion with them about how you and/ or your teen will handle expenses for any claims that occur while the teen is driving. Also, find out the deductible on their policy so that you know what to expect should there be an accident. If their deductible is too high, you may not want your teen to drive their vehicle after all.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to raise your limits and consider lowering your deductible before your learner’s permitted teen gets behind the wheel. As an inexperienced driver, your teen is a big risk and adjusting your policy so that you have minimal financial exposure is a good idea. If other family members plan to take your teen driving in their vehicles, you may want to discuss this with them as well.

If you have a teenager getting ready to venture out into the world of vehicle operation, stop by or give us a call at 813-933-6691. We can discuss with you the many changes you might consider making in your insurance policy and help limit your risk exposure so that you can focus on training your teen to be the best driver possible.