Average cost of car insurance in Washington, D.C. in 2023

How much is car insurance in Washington D.C.?

Auto insurance rates are dependent on many factors, including your age, ZIP code, gender, driving history and vehicle. Other factors, such as your credit score and marital status, are also factored in. The average cost of insurance in the U.S. is $622 per year for minimum coverage and $2,014 for full coverage. Average rates in Washington D.C. are fairly comparable to the national average, with minimum coverage costing a bit less and full coverage costing slightly more.

Average car insurance costs by age and gender in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. car insurance rates are influenced by both the age and gender of each driver. Younger drivers tend to pay higher rates, due to their inexperience, with young males paying among the highest premiums. As you gain more experience on the road, you’ll generally see your premium lower (assuming you keep a clean driving record), although the average car insurance cost in Washington, D.C. does increase a bit once a driver hits age 70.

Cost considerations for young drivers in Washington, D.C.

For most young drivers, it makes financial sense to stay on your parents’ or guardians’ policy until you move out and establish your own household. Generally, rates are higher for young drivers on their own. Keep in mind too that 16- and 17-year-old drivers are not legal adults and generally must be listed on an adult’s policy.

*16- and 17-year-old drivers must be on their parents’ policy.

How does driving record impact the cost of car insurance in Washington, D.C.?

Driving record, including speeding tickets, at-fault accidents and DUI convictions, significantly impacts average car insurance rates in Washington D.C. The average rates in the table below reflect just one instance of each infraction, and if you have several infractions, you can expect your premiums to rise even higher.

Car insurance rates in Washington, D.C. by credit score

In Washington, D.C., your credit rating also impacts your car insurance rates. Insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help calculate premiums in states where the practice is allowed. Generally, drivers with poorer credit scores tend to file more claims, which results in a higher risk to the insurer and thus a higher average rate. In D.C., drivers with poor credit pay nearly $1,500 more per year than drivers with excellent credit, on average.

Washington, D.C. car insurance rates by vehicle type

The vehicle make and model that you drive has one of the largest impacts on your car insurance rates. Some vehicles may be less likely to get into crashes or have lower repair costs, which result in lower premiums. The opposite is also true; vehicles with a higher likelihood of crashes or higher repair costs generally cost more to insure.

How to save on car insurance in Washington D.C.

If you’re looking for lower car insurance rates in Washington, D.C., you might want to keep these tips in mind: 

• Bundle your policies: If you currently have a homeowners or renters policy, then bundling with the same carrier is a great way to receive additional savings on your auto insurance.
• Shop around: Comparison shopping can be a smart way to help ensure that your current policy is right for you. That’s why it’s a good idea to compare multiple carriers when you shop for coverage. Rates change from year to year and from one carrier to another, so comparison shopping may benefit your budget.
• Look for discounts: Most carriers offer discounts, many of which provide simple ways to save. Allowing the carrier to track your driving habits using a telematics program, having safety equipment or taking a defensive driving course are a handful of ways you can save on your policy.
• Raising your deductibles: If you have full coverage, the higher your deductibles, the lower your premiums are likely to be because you agree to take on more financial risk. Your deductible is the out-of-pocket costs you pay with a comprehensive or collision claim, and the more you take on means potentially lower monthly premiums.

Estimate your car insurance cost in Washington, D.C.

Frequently asked questions