Why young and new drivers pay more

Young and new drivers pay more because the risk data says so. Understand the pricing and the steps that genuinely cut the cost of cover.

Young and newly qualified drivers pay far more for motor insurance than older, experienced drivers. The price reflects risk, not a penalty, and there are practical ways to bring it down.

Why the price is higher

Statistically, less experienced drivers are more likely to be involved in a collision, and the claims are costlier. Insurers price that expected loss into the premium. New drivers, regardless of age, lack a no claims record that would lower the cost.

What raises or lowers it

  • The car itself. Smaller, lower powered, lower group cars cost less to insure.
  • Where you live and park. Secure overnight parking helps.
  • Telematics. A black box policy rewards careful driving with lower premiums.
  • No claims discount. Each claim free year reduces the price over time.

What you can do

Compare policies on a comparison site, consider a telematics policy, and add an experienced named driver only where genuine. Our explainer on how insurers calculate risk explains the factors in full, and our guide to complaining covers your options if a price looks wrong.