How to Get Cheap California Auto Insurance: What You Should Know (2024)

It is important for California drivers to know how to get cheap California auto insurance, as California has some of the highest auto insurance rates in the country. Before you start shopping, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with what coverages California requires, the best companies in California, and more.

Read on to get the latest tips and tricks on getting the cheapest auto insurance quotes in California. If you want to start searching for affordable California auto insurance today, use our free quote comparison tool to get started.

How to Save on California Auto Insurance Coverage

The best way to find affordable auto insurance in California is to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies. With rates varying widely between companies, it’s important to research and compare prices to get the best deal.

To save money by comparing online auto insurance quotes, start by deciding on the coverage you need and the deductible you can afford. Then, get quotes from at least three different companies.

When comparing quotes, make sure to ask about any discounts you may qualify for, such as safe driver, good student, or multi-policy discounts. With changes coming to California’s minimum coverage requirements in 2025, it’s more important than ever to shop around for the best deal. But keep in mind that cheap auto insurance may not always provide the best coverage, so be sure to balance affordability with quality coverage.

California Auto Insurance Requirements

You can opt for minimum liability coverage that will meet the state’s legal requirements, or you can go for full coverage auto insurance that provides extra protection for your car.

So, what’s the difference? Let’s start with minimum liability coverage. This type of insurance will provide you with $15,000 in bodily injury liability per person, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 in property damage coverage. While this may seem like enough, it’s important to note that it only covers damages to the other person’s car and medical expenses if you’re found at fault in an accident.

On the other hand, full coverage insurance goes above and beyond the minimum requirements by including comprehensive and collision coverage. This means that your car will be protected from damage caused by theft, vandalism, storms, or accidents – regardless of who’s at fault.

Now, it’s true that full coverage does cost more than minimum liability coverage. However, if you own a car that’s less than 10 years old, it’s usually a good idea to opt for higher liability coverage limits and add comprehensive and collision coverage. This is especially true if you have a car loan or lease, as these lenders usually require you to have full coverage insurance.

Cheapest California Auto Insurance Rates

According to recent data, Geico is the undisputed champ, with an average monthly cost of just $109. And the best part? Their rates consistently beat out the competition, making them an excellent option for drivers of all kinds.

However, rates will vary depending on what coverages you choose, your driving record, and more. We go into how these factors affect your California rates in more detail.

To start, take a look below to see which auto insurance companies in California have the cheapest rates for good drivers.

While full coverage is the best option, California drivers searching for affordable auto insurance should also take note of the cheapest liability-only auto insurance.

Our research has found that Geico offers the cheapest liability-only coverage for most drivers. Learn more in our Geico insurance review.

While USAA is cheaper, it is only for military members, so not every driver will qualify for USAA coverage.

California Auto Insurance Rates for Teens

Young drivers in California typically pay more for auto insurance, with an 18-year-old driver averaging $127 per month for minimum coverage.

Learn more: Average Auto Insurance Rates by Age and Gender 

However, it may be worthwhile to opt for full coverage as a young driver if you drive often or have a newer vehicle. The added protection by collision and comprehensive insurance can provide valuable protection if your car is damaged or totaled in an accident.

Our extensive research has shown that State Farm, Geico, and American Family are the cheapest auto insurance companies for teens in California.

California Auto Insurance Rates for High-Risk Coverage

Now, when it comes to getting a ticket, it’s not just the fines you have to worry about — it’s also the increase in your auto insurance premiums. California drivers who get a speeding ticket can expect to pay an average of $216 per month for full coverage, which is a 49% increase from their previous premium.

In addition to speeding tickets, DUIs and at-fault accidents will also raise your rates. If you have a poor driving record, it is even more important to shop around for auto insurance coverage at different companies.

It’s no surprise that getting a moving violation like a speeding ticket or a DUI can lead to higher insurance rates. After all, it shows that you are a riskier driver. But with some companies like State Farm and Geico, you can still get affordable auto insurance, which will save you from years of expensive rates.

Learn more: How does a moving violation affect car insurance?

And if you can’t find auto insurance coverage because of your driving record, there is always the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan. The California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan helps connect high-risk drivers with insurance companies that will cover them. 

California Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program

For those on a tight budget, you might qualify for California’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance program, which has several payment plans and no broker fees. All you need is a current California driver’s license, a car worth $25,000 or less, and an income of no more than 250% of the federal poverty level. For one person in 2021, the income limit was $32,200.

If you need help figuring out if you qualify for the program, visit the website. The program’s website has amazing tools to help you determine income cutoffs for larger households, as well as a rate calculator and a tool to find participating insurance plans.

The Final Word on Affordable California Auto Insurance Coverage

With the tips and tools we’ve shared today, you’re well on your way to saving money on your auto insurance premiums. Remember to shop around and compare quotes from different providers, take advantage of any discounts you may qualify for, and consider alternative options like the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan and the Low-Cost Auto Insurance program.

If you want to get started on finding cheap California auto insurance coverage today, just enter your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool and connect with agents from multiple respected insurance companies.