You must purchase auto insurance to drive legally in Pennsylvania. If you’re driving a car that is owned by your parents, you can maintain coverage through their auto insurance policy as long as their home is still your primary residence. If you own your own vehicle and live with your parents, or are away at school, check with your parents’ insurance company to see if your vehicle can be covered on their policy or whether you need to purchase your own.

The auto insurance plan that you choose to purchase must cover:

• Medical bills for yourself and others covered by the policy
  
• Injury Liability for any injury that you could cause to other people
  
• Property Damage Liability for repairs or replacement costs for property you could damage
  

Each of these must be covered at a minimum limit in order to satisfy Pennsylvania law.

There are many factors that can affect the premium you pay for your auto insurance, including your age, marital status, where you live, whether you drive to work or school, your accident and violation history, and the safety and quality of your vehicle. Factors that cannot be taken into account when setting your rate include your race, religion, national origin, and gender.

Your premium can change when your policy renews if your driving habits change. Depending on your policy, there may be opportunities for discounts based on your driving history or your grades if you are still in school. 

Remember, texting and driving is illegal. Distracted driving puts you at a greater risk for an accident that could negatively impact your premium. Whatever the message is, it can wait.

For more information on auto insurance, click here. If you want to read more insurance tips for young adults, head back to where you started.