Car insurance for college students—what you need to know

If you own a vehicle or drive one regularly, most states require you to carry auto insurance. Whether you’re commuting to class, heading home for break, driving to work—or even just parking in a campus lot—you’re legally responsible for having active coverage.

Life on or near campus comes with its own surprises—a fender bender in the parking lot, a stolen laptop from your vehicle, or hail damage after a storm. The right insurance policy can help with certain repair costs or liability-related expenses—and may protect you from fines or license issues if something happens.

If you’re still on a parent’s policy, make sure the coverage meets the legal requirements where the car is registered and primarily used. If you’ve moved out, purchased a car, or need an SR-22, it might be time for a policy in your own name.

Shopping for car insurance as a student doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or expensive. Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, offers flexible options designed to fit a wide range of budgets and driving backgrounds.

Here are some simple ways to help keep your costs down:

• Keep your driving record clean: Avoiding tickets and accidents can help lower your rate.

• Pick a payment schedule that fits: Many insurers offer monthly or full-pay options.

• Bundle and save: If you also need motorcycle or renters insurance, ask about package discounts.

• Request a quote early: Planning ahead might help you lock in better pricing.

• Compare policies: Even if you’re on a parent’s plan, check your own options—college ZIP codes can affect rates.

Other factors that can influence what you pay include the car you drive, how often you drive, and, in some states, your credit-based insurance score. Driving an older, safer car with strong safety features and limiting mileage could also help reduce your premium.

Your auto policy is made up of different types of coverage, and what’s right for you depends on how—and how often—you drive. Here are some common options:

• Liability insurance—May help pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident. This is the core coverage required in most states.

• Collision insurance—Can help pay for damage to your own vehicle after a crash, no matter who’s at fault.

• Comprehensive insurance—Can help cover non-collision damage, such as theft, fire, vandalism, or weather-related events.

Your state may also require an SR-22 certificate—a form your insurance provider files to prove you carry the minimum required liability coverage after certain violations or license issues.

Attending college in a different state can affect your car insurance, especially when it comes to registration, residency, and how often you drive. Understanding a few key details can help you stay on the right track and avoid coverage gaps. Consider the following:

• Where is your car registered? Some states require registration and insurance to match your primary address.

• Do you live on or off campus? Your ZIP code can affect how your rate is calculated—and may determine whether your car should be insured under your school or home address.

• How often will you drive? Regular commuting may require different coverage than occasional weekend use.

Your insurance provider can walk you through the details and help confirm your policy meets the requirements in your college state.

Getting your own car insurance for the first time can feel unfamiliar, but it’s more straightforward than you might think. Many providers—including Dairyland—offer coverage for new drivers, even without much driving experience or credit history.

You can choose the path that works best for you—connect with a local agent for personal guidance, or take care of everything online. From getting a quote to selecting coverage, setting up payments, and managing your policy, it can all be done through a secure website or mobile app.

Whether you’re a student or a parent helping out, here’s a simple way to get started:

Getting car insurance in college doesn’t have to be complicated—or costly. With flexible plans, quick quotes, and real support, Dairyland can help keep you covered wherever school takes you. Contact us today to get started.