Cheap Auto Insurance in Pennsylvania for 2025 (Save Money With These 10 Companies)

Geico, Travelers, and State Farm offer some of the cheapest auto insurance quotes in Pennsylvania.
Geico offers low-cost coverage with discounts for safe driving and vehicles equipped with safety features. Travelers average $25 per month for full coverage. State Farm provides affordable policies with support from local agents. Insurance quotes vary based on driving history, vehicle type, and location.

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap Auto Insurance in Pennsylvania

Compare providers to find cheap auto insurance in Pennsylvania.

Take advantage of discounts, drive safely, and select the right coverage to lower your premium.

Below, we highlight affordable auto insurance options and their providers in the state of Pennsylvania. Enter your ZIP code to compare free quotes.

#1 – Geico: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Affordable Rates: Geico offers some of the cheapest auto insurance in Pennsylvania, with monthly premiums starting as low as $23. This makes it an ideal choice for cost-conscious drivers. Learn more by reading our Geico insurance review.
• Multiple Discounts: Geico auto insurance in Pennsylvania offers a range of discounts, including safe driver rewards and discounts for vehicle safety features, which can help you save more on affordable auto insurance.
• Strong Digital Tools: Geico’s efficient online platform provides easy access to policy management, making it a convenient choice for drivers seeking affordable car insurance online in PA.

Cons

• Higher Rates for Younger Drivers: Geico’s affordable rates may not apply to younger drivers, who may face higher premiums due to their lack of driving experience.
• Longer Claims Processing: While Geico offers affordable premiums, some customers have reported waiting longer for their claims to be processed.

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#1 – Travelers: Cheapest Coverage Rates

Pros

• Discount-Based Savings: The Travelers’ IntelliDrive program rewards safe driving habits, offering lower premiums to those who maintain a good driving record. This makes it a strong option for affordable car insurance in Pennsylvania. Learn more by reading our review of Travelers.
• Solid Customer Service: Travelers’ auto insurance has a strong reputation for customer service. It ensures policyholders have access to assistance when needed, enhancing the value of their affordable auto insurance.
• Flexible Coverage Options: Travelers offers a wide range of coverage options, including comprehensive and collision coverage, so you can get affordable auto insurance with the coverage you need.

Cons

• Higher Rates for Riskier Drivers: Drivers with a history of accidents or violations may find Travelers’ premiums higher than those of other providers.
• Limited Digital Tools: Travelers’ online tools are not as advanced or user-friendly as some competitors, which may affect the convenience of managing your cheap auto insurance in Pennsylvania.

#3 – State Farm: Cheapest For Safe Drivers

Pros

• Personalized Service: State Farm’s vast network of local agents provides customized service, making it a top choice for those seeking the cheapest auto insurance in PA with a personal touch. Read more in our full review of State Farm’s auto insurance.
• Safe Driving Discounts: State Farm offers several discounts, including savings for good drivers, which help you lower your premium and access affordable auto insurance.
• Strong Financial Stability: With a solid financial reputation, State Farm provides peace of mind, ensuring reliable claims processing and support for policyholders seeking affordable auto insurance.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Young Drivers: Despite its low rates, State Farm’s premiums may be higher for young drivers than those of competitors like Geico.
• Limited Digital Options: State Farm offers fewer digital tools for policy management compared to fully online providers, which may be less convenient for some drivers seeking affordable auto insurance in Pennsylvania.

#4 – Nationwide: Cheapest For Accident Forgiveness

Pros

• Innovative Discount Programs: Nationwide’s Vanishing Deductible program rewards safe drivers by reducing deductibles with each claim-free year, making it an appealing option for low-cost auto insurance in PA. You can learn more in our Nationwide auto insurance review.
• Wide Coverage Options: Nationwide offers a range of coverage options, from basic liability to comprehensive plans, ensuring affordability without compromising protection.
• Consistent Customer Support: Nationwide is known for its reliable customer service, which helps drivers easily manage their affordable auto insurance policies.

Cons

• Claims Processing Delays: While Nationwide offers affordable coverage, some customers have noted that claims can take longer to process than those of other providers.
• Inconsistent Premiums: Premiums can vary significantly based on your location and driving history, which may affect the affordability of your coverage.

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#5 – American Family: Cheapest for Loyalty Savings

Pros

• Customizable Coverage: American Family’s variety of coverage options ensures that drivers can find the best price auto insurance in PA that meets their specific needs, including specialized policies for bundling home and auto. Find out more about American Family in our American Family review.
• Intense Customer Satisfaction: American Family’s high customer satisfaction ratings make it a reliable option for affordable auto insurance, with a focus on personal agent relationships.
• Multiple Discounts: American Family offers various discounts, including bundling policies, allowing policyholders to lower their premiums and get the most affordable coverage.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Young Drivers: Like many insurers, American Family’s premiums may be higher for young drivers, making them less affordable.
• Limited Digital Management Tools: American Family’s digital platforms are not as robust as those of other companies, which limits the convenience of managing cheap auto insurance policies online.

#6 – Farmers: Cheapest for Family Drivers

Pros

• Hybrid and Electric Car Discounts: Farmers offers competitive rates for hybrid and electric vehicles, making it an excellent choice for those seeking discount auto insurance in Pennsylvania with sustainable vehicle options.  Check out our online Farmers review for more information.
• Wide Coverage Variety: Farmers provide an array of coverage options and add-ons, including roadside assistance and rental car coverage, ensuring affordable and reliable protection.
• Local Agent Network: Farmers’ network of local agents offers personalized service to help customers find affordable coverage that fits their needs.

Cons

• Higher Rates for High-Risk Drivers: Farmers’ premiums may be higher for drivers with a history of accidents or traffic violations, which can affect the affordability of their coverage.
• Limited Discounts: While Farmers offers discounts for electric and hybrid cars, it lacks some of the other discount options available from competitors.

#7 – Allstate: Cheapest For Detailed Coverage

Pros

• Safe Driver Incentives: Allstate’s Drivewise program offers discounts for safe driving, making it a good option for drivers in Pennsylvania who seek auto insurance deals and maintain a clean driving record.  Read more about this provider in our  Allstate auto insurance review.
• Multiple Policy Bundling: Bundling home, auto, and other types of insurance with Allstate can lower overall premiums, adding to the savings of their already affordable auto insurance policies.
• Strong Customer Service: Allstate offers solid customer service through a network of local agents, ensuring support when managing affordable auto insurance.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for New Drivers: Allstate’s rates may be less affordable for young and inexperienced drivers.
• Less Flexibility in Payment Plans: Allstate’s payment options may be less flexible than those of some online-based insurers, which can affect its affordability for specific drivers.

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#8 – Progressive: Personalized Premiums

Pros

• Personalized Premiums: Progressive’s Snapshot program uses telematics to personalize premiums based on your individual driving habits, helping you secure a low monthly car insurance rate in PA.
• .  Our complete Progressive review provides more details.
• Wide Range of Coverage Options: Progressive offers a variety of coverage options, ensuring drivers can find the right protection without sacrificing affordability.
• 24/7 Claims Assistance: Progressive’s round-the-clock claims assistance ensures that policyholders can easily file claims at any time, improving the accessibility of affordable auto insurance.

Cons

• Rates for High-Risk Drivers: Progressive’s rates may be higher for high-risk drivers, making it less affordable for those with a history of accidents or DUIs.
• Inconsistent Premiums: Premiums may vary widely based on driving history, which could lead to less predictable pricing for customers seeking affordable auto insurance.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Bundled Policies

Pros

• Bundle and Save: Liberty Mutual provides significant savings for bundling auto and home insurance policies, helping you save money on auto insurance in PA while securing additional coverage—Liberty Mutual company review. 
• New Car Replacement Coverage: Liberty Mutual’s new car replacement coverage helps drivers get a brand-new vehicle in case of a total loss, offering peace of mind with affordable auto insurance policies.
• Accident Forgiveness: Liberty Mutual offers accident forgiveness, which helps prevent rate increases after your first accident.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Younger Drivers: Liberty Mutual’s premiums can be higher for younger drivers, making it less affordable for some customers.
• Limited Discounts for Low-Risk Drivers: Drivers without a history of accidents or violations may find fewer opportunities to lower their premiums with Liberty Mutual.

#10 – Erie: Customizable Coverage

Pros

• Strong Customer Support: Erie is known for its excellent customer service. It offers reliable assistance for claims and policy management, which helps make its auto insurance coverage more affordable.  Our Erie insurance review explores the company’s affordable coverage and discounts.
• Customizable Coverage: Erie car insurance in PA offers a wide range of coverage options, including umbrella policies, allowing drivers to customize their cheap auto insurance in Pennsylvania.
• Local Agent Availability: Erie’s network of local agents ensures personalized customer service to help you find the best, affordable auto insurance for your needs.

Cons

• Limited Availability: Erie is not available in all states, reducing its accessibility for some drivers seeking affordable auto insurance.
• Higher Premiums for Riskier Drivers: Erie’s rates may be higher for high-risk drivers, which can affect its affordability for certain customers.

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Auto Insurance Coverage and Rates in Pennsylvania

Auto insurance rates in Pennsylvania vary based on driver profile, location, and coverage level.

Pennsylvania Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level

Choose a policy that meets Pennsylvania’s liability requirements and fits your budget.

Optional features like comprehensive and collision coverage can increase costs but offer broader protection. How do you choose among the many insurers in the market? While getting the cheapest car insurance is essential, you should also consider factors such as customer reviews and the company’s financial stability.

The Reddit post below expresses frustration with Progressive’s rising premiums despite minimal coverage, no accidents, and low mileage. The user seeks cheaper, reputable insurance options and can switch providers to find the best car insurance rates in PA.

On average, USAA and Geico are the cheapest auto insurance companies in Pennsylvania.

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in Pennsylvania

Your premium rate may differ.

Remember, any slight difference in factors can significantly change the premium rate.

Finding affordable auto insurance in Pennsylvania cities like Allentown, Erie, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, or Reading can be challenging.

This guide will help you secure the cheapest quotes without sacrificing quality or coverage.

Financial Ratings of the Leading Insurance Companies

We may not always have the time or expertise to analyze the financial strength of an insurance company.

Financial Ratings by Provider in Pennsylvania

That’s why we use A.M Best auto insurance ratings to assess the financial health of leading insurers in Pennsylvania.

A.M. Credit is one of the most reputed insurance credit rating agency.

Rates by Gender – Male vs. Female Rates

Now that you’ve reviewed the different insurance options, let’s examine the factors that affect your premium rate.

A better standing on these factors can help you secure more discounts.

Pennsylvania Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Age & Gender

Insurers in Pennsylvania don’t differentiate based on gender but consider age when calculating premiums. Teen drivers typically pay the highest premiums, but shopping around can help find the most economical rate.

Rates by Zip Code

Insurance premiums vary by zip code as insurers factor in local data. For example, if car thefts are frequent in your area, insurers may increase your premium.

Most Expensive Zip Codes in Pennsylvania

The 25 most expensive zip codes are all in Philadelphia.

Least Expensive Zip Codes in Pennsylvania

Bellefonte and State College have the cheapest zip codes in Pennsylvania.  Compare auto insurers to find the cheapest quotes for your location.

Rates by City

Take a look at the tables below to see if your city has expensive or cheap insurance rates.

Most Expensive Cities in Pennsylvania

Unsurprisingly, Philadelphia is the most expensive city.

Least Expensive Cities in Pennsylvania

Bellefonte, which has the cheapest zip code, is also the cheapest city.

Rates by Monthly Commute

The monthly commute distance in Pennsylvania directly impacts auto insurance premiums, with longer commutes often leading to higher rates.

Pennsylvania Average Annual Auto Insurance Rates Based on Communte

Many insurers provide auto insurance discounts if your monthly commute is around 6,000 miles.

Rates by Credit History

Auto insurers consider your credit score while calculating the premium rate.

Pennsylvania Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Credit History

In Pennsylvania, USAA and Nationwide may offer the best rates if you have a poor credit record.

However, if your credit score is good, you can also consider Geico and State Farm for a better rate.

Read More: How Your Credit Score Affects Your Auto Insurance Premiums

Rates by Driving Record

Auto insurance premiums in Pennsylvania are higher for drivers with a history of accidents or violations.

Pennsylvania Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Driving Record



Your driving record is a significant risk indicator for an insurer. A DUI or an at-fault accident might increase your premium rates. Factors that affect your auto insurance include your driving history, vehicle type, and location.

Premiums as a Percentage of Income

To save on premiums, compare your quotes with the state average. The benchmark premium rate helps analyze an insurer’s offer.

The benchmark premium rate will help you analyze an insurance quote that you may receive from an insurer.

Auto Insurance Percentage of Income in Pennsylvania

On average, premiums take up a lower share of income than the national percentage. However, these averages may not apply to your situation. You can also use online comparison tools to find the cheapest quotes and discounts available.

Low-Cost Auto Insurance in Pennsylvania

Drivers with clean records receive premium discounts, including the safe driver discount.  The table below lists auto insurance discounts from top providers in Pennsylvania.

Auto Insurance Discounts From the Top Providers in Pennsylvania

Insurance Company	Available Discounts
	Safe Driver, Multi-Policy, New Car, Anti-Theft, Good Student, Smart Student, Paperless, Early Signing, Responsible Payer, Senior Discount
	Multi-Policy, Teen Driver, Good Student, Loyalty, Auto Safety Equipment, Low Mileage, Steer Into Savings, Bundling, Defensive Driving
	Safe Driver, Multi-Policy, Pay-in-Full, Young Driver, Accident Prevention, Reduced Usage, Senior Discount, First Accident Forgiveness
	Multi-Car, Safe Driver, Signal Usage, Homeowner, Alternative Fuel, Affinity Group, Mature Driver, Pay-in-Full, Business/Professional Group
	Multi-Vehicle, Good Student, Federal Employee, Defensive Driving, Military, Anti-Theft, Emergency Deployment, Membership, New Vehicle
	Early Shopper, Multi-Policy, New Graduate, Good Student, Alternative Energy Vehicle, Anti-Theft, Paperless, Affinity Group, Hybrid Vehicle
	Accident-Free, Family Plan, Good Student, SmartRide, Paperless, Safe Driver, Multi-Policy, Vanishing Deductible, Defensive Driving
	Multi-Car, Continuous Insurance, Snapshot, Teen Driver, Paperless, Homeowner, Pay-in-Full, Safe Driver, Loyalty Rewards, Bundling
	Safe Driver, Accident-Free, Anti-Theft, Good Student, Multi-Policy, Drive Safe & Save, Steer Clear (for young drivers), Loyalty, Homeowner
	Safe Driver, Multi-Policy, Continuous Coverage, Homeowner, Good Payer, Hybrid/Electric Vehicle, New Car, Paid-in-Full, Student Away at School

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Pennsylvania doesn’t offer a low-cost insurance program. The state recommends shopping around for the cheapest insurance.

Customer Satisfaction Rating of Leading Auto Insurance Companies

Browsing forums, opinion polls, and customer reviews can help you find which auto insurance companies offer the best customer satisfaction.

Instead, we are leveraging the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Ratings.

Most insurers have respectable ratings, but Erie and Geico have the best customer satisfaction in the region.

Companies with the Most Complaints

Another important metric to review is the number of complaints received. It’s better to compare insurance companies based on their approach to handling complaints.

Most Complaints Auto Insurance by Provider in Pennsylvania

While all companies receive complaints, how they handle them is more important.

Largest Auto Insurance Companies

State Farm is the largest auto insurance company in the U.S. with a 20.35% market share.

Auto Insurance Companies in Pennsylvania

Farmers have one of the smallest shares, at 2.20%, which offers limited market presence by comparison.

Number of Insurers

Pennsylvania has 166 domestic and 929 foreign insurance companies licensed to operate.

Number of Insurers in Pennsylvania

This includes both auto and other insurance providers.

Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements in Pennsylvania

Before choosing the right affordable insurance coverage, it’s essential to understand Pennsylvania’s insurance laws.
Pennsylvania offers a ‘choice’ insurance model—drivers can select either full or limited tort coverage, which affects compensation in case of injury.

With full tort, you can sue for damages if another driver injures you. Under limited tort, you’re part of the no-fault system—your insurer covers medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident.

Under limited tort, your right to sue for injuries is limited. You can only file a lawsuit if the injury is severe, such as serious impairment or permanent disfigurement. All vehicles registered in Pennsylvania are required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. Check Geico’s website to see how their coverage meets state requirements.

Pennsylvania law requires the following minimum liability insurance, regardless of your coverage choice:

• $15,000 for injury or death of one person in an accident or $30,000 per accident that results in injury or death of more than one person
• $5,000 property damage protection when you’re at fault

In case you choose a no-fault plan, you also have to purchase medical payment coverage:

• $5,000 medical benefits protection that covers you or your passengers in case of an accident, regardless of fault

While minimum liability coverage keeps you compliant, it may not be financially wise. If you’re at fault in an accident and lack sufficient coverage, you’ll have to pay the difference for damages beyond your policy limit.

Minimum liability protection is required because it covers damage you cause to others. For example, if you rear-end a car, your insurer will cover the third party up to your policy limit. However, $5,000 may not cover damages to a luxury car, and you’ll need to pay the excess.

To protect yourself against financial injury, purchase liability insurance above the state-mandated minimum.

Forms of Financial Responsibility

Vehicle liability insurance is mandatory in Pennsylvania. A lapse in coverage may result in your registration being suspended.

Driving without insurance is financially risky, and you could face fines, license suspension, or revocation of your license plate and registration. To avoid suspension, pay a $500 fine and a restoration fee. Alternatively, you can apply for self-insurance with PennDOT.

To get approved for self-insurance, you would submit the following to PennDOT:

• Financial statements that show your latest financial condition
• Minimum collateral of $50,000 for one vehicle

Read More: Automobile Liability Coverage

Core Auto Insurance Coverage in Pennsylvania

The lower share of income is due to a higher disposable income and a lower average premium compared to the national average.

Core Auto Insurance Coverage in Pennsylvania

According to data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the average premium for full coverage is $950, which is more than $30 less than the national average.

Auto insurance premiums in Pennsylvania are at par with the national average.

However, you can further save by using the following methods:

• Optimize your deductible
• Have all your cars in a single policy
• Complete a certified defensive driving course
• Equip your vehicles with safety equipment such as an anti-theft alarm
• Reduce your annual mileage

Additional Liability Coverage

If you opt for no-fault insurance, you must purchase the medical benefits rider.

Liability Coverage in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law does not require PIP or uninsured motorist coverage, but it is prudent to consider these add-ons for extra financial protection in the event of an accident.

Medical Payments

Medical Payment coverage is expected to cover your medical expenses in case of an accident up to the limits of your policy. The ‘MedPay’ coverage pays you regardless of who was at fault in an accident.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

You can opt for PIP, which includes medical payments, lost wages, funeral expenses, and other related costs.

MedPay and PIP are primary benefits that provide medical coverage in case of an accident.

The difference is that PIP also provides additional coverages such as lost wages and funeral expenses.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

More than 7 percent of drivers in Pennsylvania have no insurance or less than the required coverage.

If an uninsured driver hits you, they can’t file a claim with their insurance. If they lack the assets to cover damages, they may declare bankruptcy.

Who will pay for the damages? This is why you should consider uninsured/underinsured coverage.

It’s also crucial that the insurer can settle the claim.

The loss ratio is a good indicator of whether your insurer can pay a claim. It compares total premiums earned by an insurer to total claims settled.

• A high ratio may indicate that although the insurer is likely to settle your claim, your premium may increase.
• A low loss ratio could suggest that the insurer may not settle your claim.

The loss ratio is in line with the national average, indicating that legitimate claims are likely to be settled.

Add-ons, Endorsements, and Riders

Consider the following add-ons and riders that cater to your specific requirements when selecting your coverage:

• Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP)
• Personal Umbrella Policy (PUP)
• Emergency Roadside Assistance
• Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
• Rental Reimbursement
• Modified Car Insurance Coverage
• Classic Car Insurance
• Non-Owner Car Insurance
• Pay-As-You-Drive or Usage-Based Insurance

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Pennsylvania State Laws

Staying informed about Pennsylvania’s automotive laws is essential for maintaining a clean driving record. We’ll quickly recap the most relevant laws to help you secure the cheapest quotes and stay safe on the road.

Auto Insurance Laws

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, State laws determine the tort rule, minimum liability insurance requirement, and approval system used by insurers.

In Pennsylvania, insurers must seek prior approval from the state insurance department before using insurance rates and forms.

Let’s further review the specific laws governing auto insurance in the State of Independence.

Windshield Coverage Laws

In Pennsylvania, there is no specific law governing insurers’ provision of windshield coverage as part of the policy.

However, insurance providers may provide windshield protection as part of comprehensive coverage.

High-Risk Insurance

Insurers could deny you auto insurance coverage if you were involved in multiple DUI convictions or at-fault accidents.

With a poor driving record, insurance companies consider you a risk and will not offer you a policy in the voluntary market.

How do you find coverage in such a scenario?

Well, you can opt for Pennsylvania’s Assigned Risk Plan (ARP), which assigns high-risk drivers to insurance companies based on a quota.

The premium rate under ARP is almost always more expensive than in the voluntary market; however, the policy coverage remains the same.

The quota is calculated based on the amount of business each insurance company writes in the state.

To be eligible to apply for insurance under ARP, you must prove that you searched for auto insurance in the voluntary market for a minimum of 60 days without success.

Within ARP, you may also qualify for the Clean Risk Rate (CRR). Eligibility criteria for CRR are:

• No more than $1,150 paid by the insurance on your behalf
• No more than three traffic violations
• No suspension or revocation of driver’s license
• You must have held the license for three years

You should aim to keep a clean driving record and access the voluntary market for a cheaper premium rate.

Auto Insurance Fraud

Auto insurance fraud is a serious crime in Pennsylvania. It drives up premiums as insurers offset losses. The state classifies it as a felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. Typical forms of fraud include staging accidents, inflating claims, filing false theft reports, and providing misleading information on applications.

Here are the broad types of insurance fraud:

We need to be vigilant against insurance fraud. If you have witnessed a scam or were a victim of one, please report the crime here:

• The Pennsylvania Office of The Attorney General Insurance Fraud Section (717-787-0272)
• The National Insurance Crime Bureau (1-800-TEL-NICB (1-800-835-6422))

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

It is mandatory to maintain liability insurance for all registered vehicles. If you are found operating a motor vehicle without the minimum liability insurance, you can face several penalties.

Let us review the penalties and challenges you may face if you are caught driving without insurance:

• Financial Penalty: If you are found operating a car without liability insurance, you would have to pay a fine of anywhere between $100 to $500. For repeat occurrences, the penalty can increase to as high as $1,000. You will also have to pay license and registration restoration fees.
• License Suspension: You may face a license suspension of up to three months, which could potentially be extended to six months. However, it can also include registration suspension and vehicle impounding.
• Jail: If you are a repeat offender or caused an accident without insurance, you can be jailed for a period of time.
• Financial Repercussion: Regardless of the penalty, you are putting yourself at substantial financial risk by driving without insurance. If you cause a serious accident, you will have to pay for the damages out of pocket, which can potentially consume your financial assets.
• Impact on Insurance Policy: If you were ever caught driving without insurance, you might find that insurers are not too keen to write you a policy, or your premium rate may increase substantially.

Read more: Erie Auto Insurance Review

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations in Pennsylvania is two years for personal injury and property damage.

But what is a statute of limitations?

It is the time until which you can sue a third party for damages after an accident.

In Pennsylvania, you have two years after an accident to step out of the no-fault system and sue the third party for personal injury or property damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Vehicle Licensing Laws

You cannot drive or buy auto insurance without a valid driver’s license.

If your license is up for renewal, consider a REAL ID-compliant version.

The following section explains the license renewal process in Pennsylvania. You can also use online comparison tools to find the cheapest insurance options available.

REAL ID

Have you heard about REAL ID?

It’s a federal requirement for entering federal buildings or boarding domestic flights starting October 2020.

Pennsylvanians can choose a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license for this purpose. If you received your license after September 2003, PennDOT may already have your documents on file.

You can apply for a REAL ID online. If PennDOT has your documents, you can complete the process entirely online.

If you don’t have the updated documents with PennDOT, you’ll need to visit a REAL ID Center near you.

The other federally acceptable IDs are:

• US Passport
• Foreign Passport
• U.S. Military ID
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

 Teen Driving Laws

Approximately 8,300 teens aged 16 or 17 are licensed each month in Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania uses a three-stage licensing process for teen drivers. At 16, teens can apply for a learner’s permit, which allows them to drive under supervision.

To qualify for a Junior License, drivers must complete 65 hours of supervised driving—10 at night and 5 in bad weather—pass a road test, and complete driver’s education. The Junior License restricts nighttime driving and limits the number of passengers.

To get a full license, teens must be 18 or hold a Junior License for at least 12 months with a clean record. If applying before October 2020, consider getting a REAL ID-compliant license.

License Renewal Procedure

In Pennsylvania, an unrestricted driver’s license is valid for four years. Drivers over 65 can choose a two- or four-year renewal cycle. You can renew your license online without needing to visit the DMV office.

New Resident Licensing Procedure

If you have just moved to Pennsylvania, you must obtain the PA driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency in the state.

You have to visit the nearest DMV to exchange your out-of-state driver’s license for a PA driver’s license. However, you do not have to write the knowledge test if you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license.

Rules of the Road in Pennsylvania

Following road rules is crucial for safety and maintaining a clean driving record, which can help prevent premium increases.

Here’s a quick recap of the road rules in Pennsylvania.

Fault vs. No-Fault

Pennsylvania is a choice state. You can choose between full tort and limited tort insurance. With limited tort, you save on the premium but give up your right to sue for small damages. Full tort allows you to keep the right to sue for damages.

Read More: How to Lower Your Auto Insurance Premiums

Safety Laws

A reckless or impaired driver is a danger to everyone on the road. Pennsylvania enforces strict laws to prevent such behavior.

Read More: Driving Tips for Road Safety

Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws 

Seatbelts and airbags are crucial for passenger safety. Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear their seatbelts or face a $10 fine for the first offense.

Children under two must use

rear-facing child restraint seats, while those ages two to four must use forward-facing seats.

Children eight and older can use an adult seatbelt. The driver is responsible for ensuring child restraint, and a $75 penalty will be assessed for non-compliance.

Keep Right and Move Over Laws

You must keep right, unless passing a vehicle that is turning right or driving slowly.

You must also vacate the closest lane or slow down when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is stopped.

Speed Limits

The speed limit in Pennsylvania is 70 mph on rural and urban interstates, as well as other limited-access roads.

Speed Limits in Pennsylvania

All other roads have a speed limit of 55 mph.

Ridesharing

If you drive for Uber, Lyft, or any other ridesharing company, you need to know the types of coverage required to drive in Pennsylvania.

In insurance terms, there are four scenarios when you operate a vehicle for a ridesharing company.

• First, when you’re offline, you must maintain your private auto insurance and notify your provider that you drive for a ridesharing company.
• Next, when picking up or dropping off a passenger, Uber or Lyft provides $1,000,000 in liability and collision coverage, with a deductible of $1,000 to $2,000.
• The last part is when you’re logged into the app but not accepting a ride; you need to purchase ‘gap insurance.’ In Pennsylvania, Erie, Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Progressive offer gap insurance.

 Automation on the Road

Pennsylvania recently approved its first automated car road tests in October 2018. Uber and Aurora are using this opportunity to test their cars in the state.

DUI Laws in Pennsylvania

In 2017, there were 314 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities on the roads in Pennsylvania. Thirty-one of these fatalities were drivers below the age of 21.

With alcohol-related fatalities at par with the national average, we see strict penalties to deter people from drunk driving in Pennsylvania.

DUI Penalties in Pennsylvania

The lookback period in Pennsylvania is ten years.

The lookback period is the time frame in which any offense is counted as subsequent offense and attracts a harsher penalty.

Marijuana-Impaired Driving Laws 

In Pennsylvania, law enforcement can book a person if his or her marijuana residue contains THC per se (1 nanogram) or more.

Remember: If you ingest Marijuana, you can have residue for days, weeks or even month. This may result in a DUI charge.>

Read More: Auto Insurance After A DUI

Distracted Driving Laws 

Pennsylvania laws don’t prohibit drivers from using handheld devices or cellphones. However, you are not allowed to use text messaging while driving.

Distracted driving is a primary offense in Pennsylvania, and you can be stopped and fined. Vehicle safety tips advise staying focused on the road to avoid accidents caused by distractions.

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Driving in Pennsylvania

You can control some factors to get a better premium rate, but not all.

Pennsylvania Statistics Summary

Car theft, fatality rates, and traffic congestion also impact your rates, as they directly correlate with the likelihood of a claim.

Pennsylvania’s Car Culture

Pennsylvania has a rich automotive history showcased through its various museums. The Keystone State is also home to the iconic Pocono Raceway that hosts IndyCar and NASCAR races.

Unfortunately, the racing heritage is sometimes extended to public roads, with drivers occasionally exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph.

Slow down and follow the rules! It’s for everyone’s safety.

Vehicle Theft in Pennsylvania

Kia was the most stolen vehicle in Pennsylvania.

Vehicle Theft in Pennsylvania

Ram had the fewest reported thefts in Pennsylvania, with only 404 incidents. The table below shows vehicle thefts by city in Pennsylvania.

Vehicle Theft by City in Pennsylvania

To search for city data on motor vehicle theft, refer to the table above.

Road Fatalities in Pennsylvania

Fatal road crashes often result from human error or uncontrollable factors. Knowing how to file an auto insurance claim helps you handle the aftermath efficiently.

Fatal Crashes by Weather Condition and Light Condition

In Pennsylvania, cities with higher rates of vehicle theft often coincide with challenging driving conditions.

Fatal Crashes by Weather Condition in Pennsylvania

Snow or ice contributes to 25% of fatal crashes, while other or unknown weather conditions account for 30%.

Fatalities (All Crashes) by County

From 2013 to 2017, Allegheny County had the highest number of crash fatalities in Pennsylvania, peaking at 72 deaths in 2016.

Fatalities Crashes by County in Pennsylvania

Other counties with consistently high fatalities include Bucks, Berks, and Blair.

Fatalities by Road Type

From 2008 to 2017, rural roads in Pennsylvania consistently had more fatalities than urban roads.

Fatalities by Road Type in Pennsylvania

In 2017, rural road deaths totaled 607, compared to 528 on urban roads.

Fatalities by Person Type

In 2017, there were 771 occupant fatalities and 179 nonoccupant fatalities in Pennsylvania.

Fatalities by Person Type in Pennsylvania

Passenger car deaths led among occupants with 463, while 147 pedestrian deaths accounted for the majority of nonoccupants.

Fatalities by Crash Type

In 2017, Pennsylvania recorded 1,137 total crash fatalities.

Fatalities by Crash Type in Pennsylvania

Of these, 620 were single-vehicle crashes, 468 involved speeding, and 642 involved roadway departures.

Five-Year Fatality Trend for the Top 10 Counties

In 2017, the top 10 Pennsylvania counties accounted for 490 crash fatalities, led by Philadelphia County with 94 deaths.

Five-Year Fatality Trend by County in Pennsylvania

The remaining counties in the state reported 647 fatalities.

Fatalities Involving Speeding by County

In 2017, Berks County had the highest fatalities involving speeding, with 24 deaths.

Fatalities Involving Speeding by County in Pennsylvania

Allegheny County followed closely with 17 speeding-related fatalities.

Fatalities in Crashes Involving an Alcohol-Impaired Driver (BAC=.08+) by County

In 2017, Allegheny County had the highest fatalities in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, with 23 deaths.

Fatalities in Crashes Involving an Alcohol-Impaired Driver by County in Pennsylvania

Bucks County followed with 16 fatalities related to alcohol impairment.

Teen Drinking and Driving

Mixing drinking with driving is dangerous, particularly for teenagers

In 2016, Pennsylvania had 365 underage DUI arrests, ranking 12th in the U.S. for DUI arrests under 18.

Their inexperience increases the risk of fatal crashes.

Despite high DUI arrest rates, the under-21 alcohol-impaired driving fatality rate in Pennsylvania was 0.8 per 100,000, lower than the national average of 1.2.

In 2016, 365 arrests for underage DUI were registered in Pennsylvania making the state 12th highest in America for DUI arrests under 18.

EMS Response Time

In rural areas, the average time from crash to hospital arrival is 51.38 minutes, while in urban areas, it is 36.32 minutes.

EMS Response Time in Pennsylvania

Rural areas experience longer EMS response times, with 574 fatal crashes compared to 507 in urban areas.

Transportation in Pennsylvania

Your average commute to work is affected by several factors in your city, such as the number of cars owned by households and the preferred mode of transportation.

Car Ownership

Most Pennsylvania households own two cars.

This matches the average car ownership in the U.S.

Commute Time

On average, workers in the US commute to work for around 25.5 minutes, whereas the commute time in Pennsylvania is slightly higher at 25.7 minutes.

Moreover, around 2.86 percent of motorists have super commutes and spend more than 90 minutes on the road to get to work.

Commuter Transportation

Most workers in Pennsylvania commute to work alone.

Only 8.51% choose to carpool.

Traffic Congestion

Philadelphia and Pittsburgh have heavy traffic congestion during peak hours.

According to traffic analytics firm Inrix, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are the 7th and 9th most congested cities in the U.S.

In Pittsburgh, commuters lose 127 hours to congestion, and in Philadelphia, 112 hours. Lost time in traffic has a monetary cost.

Congestion costs Pittsburgh drivers about $148 per month and Philadelphia drivers about $131.

To find cheap auto insurance in Pennsylvania, compare rates from different providers and consider customer reviews, coverage options, and financial strength. Drivers can save by selecting the right coverage, using discounts, and maintaining a clean driving record. Traffic congestion and vehicle type also impact premium costs. Now that you know how to find the best insurance coverage for your needs, you can start comparison shopping today by entering your ZIP code below in our FREE online tool.