One of the most important financial responsibilities for car owners in Idaho is purchasing auto insurance. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to find cheap car insurance in Idaho without sacrificing the quality of coverage.

In this blog post, we consider the various factors that affect the cost of car insurance in Idaho, the best companies for different drivers, how to find affordable rates, and what you need to know about the state’s car insurance laws.

The Average Cost of Car Insurance in Idaho

The average cost of car insurance in Idaho is lower than the national average. Comparing car insurance rates by state, Idaho has the cheapest rates. The average cost of minimum coverage in Idaho is $386 per year, while full coverage is $1,476 per year.

Idaho's premiums are low because the state is mainly rural, resulting in lower traffic density and fewer collision risks. Idaho also has low crime rates, which makes comprehensive coverage more affordable.

The cheapest company for full auto insurance coverage is USAA at $811 per year. However, note that USAA serves only military personnel and their families. American National offers the second-cheapest for this coverage level.

The cheapest for minimum coverage is also USAA at $218 per year. If you don't qualify for USAA, GEICO offers the next most affordable rates. However, it is important to note that the exact rates you will pay for Idaho auto insurance depend on factors such as the car insurance provider, age, and driving history.

Source: Cheapest car insurance in Idaho for 2025 (Bankrate)

Factors Affecting Auto Insurance Costs in Idaho

Besides the company you choose, other factors that affect the cost of car insurance in Idaho include:

1. Driving Record: Good drivers with a clean driving record often pay less for insurance. On the other hand, a history of accidents or speeding tickets will increase your rates.
2. Age: Young drivers, especially teenagers, tend to pay higher premiums due to their inexperience on the road. Older drivers, especially those over 40, often find more affordable coverage policies.
3. Location: Car insurance rates in Idaho vary depending on where you live. Urban cities may have higher rates due to traffic and crime rates, while rural areas tend to have lower premiums due to fewer accidents and claims.
4. Vehicle Type: Newer, more expensive cars cost more to insure, especially if they need comprehensive and collision coverage.
5. Credit Score: Insurance companies in Idaho can use your credit score to assess the likelihood that you’ll file a claim. Drivers with poor credit histories often pay higher premiums than those with good credit scores.
6. Coverage Type: The type and level of coverage you choose will affect your car insurance rates. Full-coverage car insurance costs more than minimum liability coverage, but it offers more protection.

Cheapest Car Insurance, Idaho, by Age Group

Car insurance rates can vary based on your age group. You should compare quotes from multiple providers to find cheap auto insurance in Idaho. Below are the average car insurance costs in Idaho by age:

Teens (17 Years Old)

Car insurance rates are the highest for teens in Idaho. Insurance companies consider young drivers a high risk due to their inexperience and higher accident risk. However, teens can get a low rate with Geico and Mutual of Enumclaw: $2,483 per year for females and $3,166 for males, respectively. The following companies also offer affordable rates to teens:

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Young Adults (25 Years Old)

Young adults usually see a drop in rates. Drivers in this category can further reduce their rates by keeping a clean driving record. USAA offers the cheapest rates for these drivers at $880 per year for females and $936 for males. However, since USAA only serves the military community, Idaho drivers who do not qualify should consider Geico.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Adults (40 Years Old)

Adult drivers' insurance rates tend to decrease. Drivers in this age group often have lower rates due to their experience and responsible driving habits. USAA is the cheapest for adult drivers in Idaho at $655 for females and $653 for males, per year. Geico offers the second-cheapest average rates.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Seniors (60 Years Old)

Seniors often receive lower rates as experienced, safe drivers. Rates can be even lower if the senior driver has low annual mileage and no moving violations. USAA is the cheapest option for these drivers. Those who do not qualify can find the cheapest rates with Geico at $827 per year.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Cheapest Auto Insurance, Idaho, for Drivers with Poor Credit

Having poor credit can lead to higher car insurance rates. Many insurers view poor credit as financial instability, which can mean a higher chance of filing claims. However, multiple insurers offer affordable auto insurance options for drivers with poor credit. Geico offers the cheapest coverage for these drivers at $1,184 per year.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Cheap Auto Insurance, Idaho, for High-Risk Drivers

High-risk drivers are those with a history of accidents, traffic violations, or DUI convictions. They often face higher insurance premiums. If you fall into this category, get car insurance quotes from multiple companies and compare them to get the cheapest coverage. Here's a closer look at high-risk drivers and the best companies for each:

After a Speeding Ticket

Speeding tickets increase your premiums. But Geico’s average annual rate for drivers with a single speeding ticket on their record is $1,035, which is the most affordable in Idaho. USAA is cheaper, but only serves military members.

After an Accident

Most Idaho drivers with an at-fault accident on their record can find affordable coverage with State Farm at $1,194 annually. If you are in the military community, you may qualify for lower rates with USAA at $1,061 per year.

After a DUI

A DUI leads to much higher premium increases than accidents or speeding violations. But State Farm offers these drivers affordable rates of $1,105 per year.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (US News)

Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho by City

Where you live in Idaho can affect your car insurance rates. Urban areas tend to have higher premiums due to higher traffic congestion and the increased likelihood of accidents. Rural areas have lower rates due to fewer cars on the road and a reduced risk of accidents. The cheapest large cities for minimum coverage auto insurance are:

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Idaho for 2025 (Bankrate)

The following cities in Idaho have the cheapest overall car insurance rates:

Source: Cheapest car insurance in Idaho for 2025 (Bankrate)

Idaho Minimum Coverage Car Insurance Requirements

Idaho state laws through the Idaho Department of Motor Vehicles require drivers to carry at least minimum coverage car insurance in the following limits:

• Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
• Property Damage Liability: $15,000 per accident

Bodily injury liability helps pay for the medical expenses of others in an accident, while property damage liability covers damage to the other driver's property if you're the at-fault driver. Liability insurance can also pay for your legal fees in an at-fault crash.

These minimum coverage requirements may not provide enough financial protection in some cases. For example, an accident with multiple motor vehicles could exceed these limits. For this reason, many drivers get higher limits and full coverage auto insurance.

Additional Auto Insurance in Idaho

Besides the state-required minimum coverage, you may also get additional auto insurance options in Idaho, such as:

• Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle caused by a collision with another vehicle or object.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Covers damage to your vehicle caused by non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or weather-related damage.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protects you if you're involved in an accident with someone who has too little or no insurance to cover the costs.
• Roadside Assistance: Covers emergency roadside services, including fuel delivery and towing.
• Medical Payments: Covers medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of who is at fault in an accident.

If you have a newer car or want more comprehensive protection, it’s worth considering these additional coverage options.

Tips for Getting the Cheapest Idaho Car Insurance

Here are some tips to help you lower your insurance bill:

• Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first insurance quote you receive. Shop around and compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers to find the best rate.
• Increase Your Deductible: Choosing a higher deductible can lower your monthly premiums, but make sure you can afford it if you need to file a claim.
• Take Advantage of Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for safe driving, bundling policies, taking a defensive driving course, being a student with good grades, or taking a safe driving course. Ask your insurance professional about any available discounts.
• Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoid traffic violations and accidents to keep your rates as low as possible.
• Consider State Minimum Coverage: If your vehicle is older or you don’t need extensive coverage, state minimum liability insurance might be enough.

FAQs

How Do I Show Proof of Car Insurance in Idaho?

You can show proof using your physical insurance card or an electronic version on your smartphone. Always carry and present proof of insurance when law enforcement requests it.

How Much Does Car Insurance in Idaho Cost?

The average cost of car insurance in Idaho is approximately $1,150 per year for full coverage and $400 annually for minimum coverage.

Can you Self-Insure a Vehicle in Idaho?

Yes, Idaho allows vehicle owners to self-insure if they can prove they have the financial resources to cover damages and liabilities. This option is for those with assets such as more than 25 vehicles registered and titled in their name in Idaho, and a net worth of at least $500,000.

What is the Best Car Insurance Company in Idaho?

The best car insurance company in Idaho depends on factors such as age and driving record. However, Bankrate confirms that USAA offers the cheapest full and minimum coverage in the state. You can find the best company for your needs by comparing quotes from top companies with us.