FAQs: Parents of College Students

college kids insurance

In last week’s blog, we offered a few tips for parents sending younger children back to school. But what about those of you who sent kids to college for the first time this year? Now that you’ve helped them unpack, decorated their dorms, and guided them through the first weeks of orientation and class, let’s talk about car insurance.

Here are a few of the most common questions received from parents sending their kids to college for the first time:

If my child is attending college in another state and doesn’t have a car, do they need to stay on my car insurance policy?

If your child is attending school in a different state, and doesn’t have a car, the short answer to this is No, you do not have to keep your child on your policy. That said, the lapse in coverage could result in higher rates for them in the future. Depending on your policy, you will be able to offer your child temporary coverage when they are home for extended periods of time and holidays, but it’s always best to confirm with an agent before letting anyone drive your car.

If I take my child off of my policy, are they able to drive my car when they visit home for short periods?

Before letting anyone behind the wheel of your car, remember to check with your agents to understand your policy’s restrictions. Although some policies exist that would allow your child to drive your car, if yours does not, you will have to speak to your agent to find out if you can temporarily list your child to your policy. And if your policy does allow for permissive drivers, remember that coverage for permissive drivers is often less.

My child is taking their car to school, and I’d like to keep them on my car insurance policy. Can I do that?

Great question! Though many plans will protect your full-time student in another state, this isn’t true for all. The one resounding answer to all of these questions is to contact your Latorre Insurance agent before making any big decisions like the ones described above. Car insurance is mandatory, and we’re here to help you better understand the extent of your policy’s coverage.