Cheapest Idaho Car Insurance Rates in 2024 (Save Big With These 10 Companies!)

When it comes to cheapest Idaho car insurance rates, State Farm, Travelers, and Geico lead the pack, offers rate as low as $15 per month. State Farm provides exceptional customer service and a wide range of coverage options, making it the top choice overall. These providers offer affordable premiums and comprehensive coverage, ideal for Idaho drivers seeking savings and security.

Approximately 8.2% of Idaho drivers are driving without insurance, risking fines, license suspension, and even jail.

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheapest Idaho Car Insurance Rates

Discover why auto insurance matters in Idaho, explore coverage options, find the best rates, and understand local driving laws.

Get the right car insurance at the best price — enter your ZIP code above to shop for coverage from the top insurers.

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#1 – State Farm: Top Pick Overall

Pros

• Excellent Customer Service: Known for top-notch customer service and reliable claims handling.
• Wide Coverage Options: Offers a comprehensive range of coverage options and extensive discounts. Unlock details in our State Farm car insurance review.
• Financial Stability: Strong financial standing provides reassurance to policyholders.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Can be more expensive compared to some competitors.
• Limited Online Tools: Some customers find the online tools and mobile app less robust.

#2 – Travelers: Best for Competitive Rates

Pros

• Competitive Rates: Offers competitive rates, especially for clean driving records.
• Financial Reliability: Strong financial ratings ensure stability.
• Policy Variety: Provides diverse policy options and discounts. See more details on our Travelers car insurance review.

Cons

• Inconsistent Customer Service: Some customers report inconsistent service experiences.
• Limited Availability: Availability may be restricted in certain regions.

#3 – Geico: Best for Online Tools

Pros

• Low Premiums: Known for affordable premiums and various discount opportunities.
• User-Friendly Tools: Easy-to-use website and mobile app for managing policies. Learn more in our Geico car insurance review.
• Good Customer Satisfaction: Generally high customer satisfaction ratings.

Cons

• Limited Agent Interaction: Less personal interaction with agents for those who prefer it.
• Claims Processing Concerns: Some policyholders experience delays or issues with claims processing efficiency.

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#4 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Claims Handling

Pros

• Customizable Policies: Offers customizable policies with extensive coverage options.
• Discount Opportunities: Discounts available for bundling and safe driving.
• Financial Strength: Well-established with strong financial ratings. Learn more in our Liberty Mutual car insurance review.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Premiums may be higher compared to other insurers.
• Mixed Customer Reviews: Customer reviews vary, with some dissatisfaction noted in service quality.

#5 – Nationwide: Best for Customer Service

Pros

• Nationwide Availability: Offers coverage across all states with a strong network of agents.
• Multi-Policy Discounts: Provides discounts for bundling home and auto insurance. Check out insurance savings in our complete Nationwide car insurance discount.
• High Customer Satisfaction: Generally positive customer reviews for service and claims handling.

Cons

• Premiums May Be Higher: Some customers report higher premiums compared to competitors.
• Limited Online Options: Online tools and mobile app functionality could be more robust.

#6 – Progressive: Best for Innovative Usage

Pros

• Competitive Rates: Known for offering competitive rates, particularly for high-risk drivers.
• Name Your Price Tool: Unique tool allows customers to customize policies based on budget.
• Strong Online Presence: User-friendly website and app for managing policies and claims. Delve into our evaluation of Progressive car insurance review.

Cons

• Complex Claims Process: Some customers find the claims process to be lengthy or cumbersome.
• Customer Service Concerns: Mixed reviews on customer service experiences.

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#7 – Farmers: Best for Financial Stability

Pros

• Personalized Service: Strong network of local agents providing personalized service. Learn more in our Farmers car insurance review.
• Variety of Coverage Options: Offers a wide range of coverage options to suit different needs.
• Innovative Features: Farmers offers unique programs like Signal, which tracks driving habits for potential discounts.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Premiums can be higher compared to other insurers.
• Customer Satisfaction: Mixed reviews on customer satisfaction and claims handling.

#8 – Safeco: Best for Flexible Coverage

Pros

• Flexible Coverage: As mentioned in our Safeco car insurance review, the company offers flexible coverage options and discounts for safe driving.
• Strong Financial Ratings: Backed by Liberty Mutual’s financial stability and reputation.
• Digital Experience: User-friendly website and mobile app for policy management.

Cons

• Claims Handling: Some customers report issues with claims processing and communication.
• Availability: Limited availability in certain regions compared to larger insurers.

#9 – American Family: Best for Loyalty Discounts

Pros

• Bundle Discounts: Offers discounts for bundling auto, home, and life insurance.
• Customer Loyalty: American Family car insurance review provides rewards program for loyal customers with benefits over time.
• Local Agents: Network of local agents providing personalized service.

Cons

• Premiums May Be Higher: Higher premiums compared to competitors in some regions.
• Coverage Options: Limited options for specialized coverage compared to larger insurers.

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#10 – Allstate: Best for Personalized Service

Pros

• Wide Range of Products: Offers a variety of insurance products beyond auto.
• Drivewise Program: Usage-based insurance program offering potential discounts.
• Strong Financial Standing: Solid financial ratings and stability. Discover more about offerings in our Allstate car insurance review.

Cons

• Costly Premiums: Premiums can be higher than average.
• Customer Service: Mixed reviews on customer service and claims satisfaction.

Idaho Car Insurance Coverage and Rates

Also known as The Gem State for its rich supply of precious minerals, gold, lead, cobalt, zinc, and other natural resources, Idaho offers an endless array of beautiful views with its mixtures of farmland and mountainous regions. In terms of land mass, Idaho ranks number 11 out of all 50 states but 39th for the total population.

Outdoor recreational activities are a significant part of life for Idaho residents, with kayaking, whitewater rafting, skiing, and snowboarding being frequent seasonal pastimes. Idaho is also a hot spot for job seekers, with CNBC ranking the state number four among the top states to find a job in America.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider

Needless to say, business and life in Idaho are booming. So, whether you’re considering relocating to The Gem State or have lived there all your life, it’s time to get into Idaho car insurance rates so you can find the policy you need without breaking the bank. Ready? Let’s get into it.

Compare Car Insurance Rates in Idaho

Discover the varying car insurance rates across different cities in Idaho, including Boise, Coeur D’Alene, Malad City, and Pocatello.

Idaho Auto Insurance Cost by City

Compare and contrast to make informed decisions on securing the best coverage for your needs.

Idaho Minimum Car Insurance Coverage Requirements

The table below details the minimum coverage amounts required in the state of Idaho. Under Idaho Statutes section 49-1229, all vehicles registered with the state must be covered by adequate liability insurance.

The penalty for failing to carry the required coverages for first-time offenders is a $75 fine.

However, the penalty increases for a second or additional violation within the following five years, including fines up to $1,000 and/or as much as six months in jail.

In addition, under Idaho Statutes Section 41-2502, Idaho car insurance policies are required to also include uninsured motorist coverage equal to the insured’s selected bodily injury liability coverage amount. The exception would be if the policyholder waived the requirement in writing.

Drivers may opt to post an indemnity bond to meet Idaho’s financial responsibility requirements in lieu of taking out liability insurance. However, the risks of driving without auto insurance coverage for your vehicle make this an ill-advised maneuver in most scenarios.

Let’s look at your Idaho car insurance minimum liability coverage requirements closer:

• $25,000 — for bodily injury or death per person resulting from an accident you cause
• $50,000 — for total bodily injury or death liability resulting from an accident you cause
• $15,000 — to cover property damage per accident resulting from a collision you cause

These liability coverage amounts serve to take care of medical expenses, property damage costs, and other bills incurred by any drivers, pedestrians, or passengers in an accident you’re responsible for. Such expenses are covered up to and until your policy limits are exhausted.

It is wise to compare liability car insurance and find a policy above the required limits. In the event that you cause an auto accident and serious injuries ensue for the other parties involved, your personal assets could be on the line. The coverages discussed above do not cover any injuries or property damage you incur following an accident. This is where other coverage options apply, which we will discuss further down.

Remember. Idaho also requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage (unless waived in writing), equal to the insureds bodily injury liability coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage covers the cost of medical bills and property damage costs you incur when the at-fault driver in the accident does not have liability insurance.

If you’ve moved from out of the state, you may notice that your premiums for minimum coverage may have changed.

Idaho is a “fault” state, meaning the state’s car insurance laws hold the at-fault driver in an accident responsible for any losses incurred as a result of their negligent driving, such as physical injuries, property damage, lost wages, etc.

If you’re wondering if you have to report a car accident to your insurance company or police, it’s generally in your best interest to do so.

Mandatory Forms of Financial Responsibility in Idaho

Idaho drivers must always keep a valid form of financial responsibility or proof of insurance coverage in their car. Acceptable proof of insurance is the SR-22 (or certificate of insurance) document your insurance carrier issues to you when coverage commences.

If you are pulled over while out on the road or get into an accident, and you are unable to provide proof of insurance, you will be found guilty of committing an infraction for first-time offenses.

A first offense is accompanied by a one-year license suspension while another offense within the following five years is a misdemeanor incurring a three-year license suspension. The moral of the story is — carry your proof of insurance card in your car or keep an electronic copy with you at all times, and you’ll be good to go.

Penalty for Driving Without Insurance in Idaho

Penalties for driving without Idaho car insurance include a fine of $75 for a 1st offense and license suspension until you show proof of financial responsibility. Subsequent convictions will result in jail time and fines up to $5,000.

• If you are driving without car insurance in the state of Idaho, you may be responsible for paying a fine
• Your license might be suspended until you can provide proof of financial responsibility
• You are required to show proof of financial responsibility following your conviction
• If you are caught driving without a license after your first offense, you will have to pay higher fines and possible imprisonment

If you are caught driving without insurance in Idaho, you may have to pay a fine and forfeit your license. The fine for a first offense is $75, but it is higher for any subsequent offenses. Your license will be suspended until you can show proof of financial responsibility.

You must maintain proof of financial responsibility for the one-year period following your conviction. If you are in a car accident while you are driving without car insurance, you may still be considered financially responsible for damage you caused.

Compare car insurance quotes today by entering your ZIP code into our free rate comparison tool above. Our tool will help you find the best car insurance in Idaho.

If you’re worried about having your car impounded for driving without insurance, in some states, that could happen.

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Second Offense Penalty for Driving Without Car Insurance in Idaho

If you are charged with driving without car insurance a second time, the penalties and fines can greatly increase. If you are convicted of a second violation within five years of the first one, you may have to pay a $5,000 fine.

Your license will be suspended until you can provide proof of financial responsibility.

You can also be punished with a six-month imprisonment sentence. You must also provide proof of insurance and financial responsibility for the next three years following your conviction. The fees for a third offense or any subsequent offenses are the same as the fees for the second offense.

Idaho Mandatory Car Insurance Requirement

Idaho requires drivers to have insurance or another form of financial responsibility. Car insurance must protect against loss from bodily injury, physical damage, or death.

What is the minimum amount of liability insurance coverage required?

Your insurance must cover the following:

• $25,000 worth of bodily injury or death for an accident involving one person
• $50,000 worth of bodily injury or death for an accident involving two people
• $15,000 worth of physical damage and destruction

You do have the option of posting an indemnity bond with the director of the department of insurance if you do not want car insurance. The bond must ensure that any payments will be disbursed within 30 days of an accident. The indemnity bond must cover $50,000 for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage.

What to do With Suspended License

What happens if you drive with a suspended license? If your license is suspended because you were driving without insurance, you will have to surrender it to the Department of Motor Vehicles. If you choose not to forfeit your license, the department can send an officer to collect the license and return it to the DMV.

After the suspension period is lifted, you can apply for a duplicate license if you meet all of the other requirements.

The penalty for driving without car insurance in Idaho is a fine and a suspended license. The fine for the first offense is $75, while the fine for subsequent offenses can be up to $5,000.

If you are convicted of driving without a license a second time, you may have to serve a prison sentence up to six months long.

Compare car insurance quotes today by entering your ZIP code into our free comparison tool below.

Premiums as a Percentage of Income in Idaho

As of 2017, the average per capita income for residents of Idaho was $41,826. Your personal income is the amount you keep to pay bills, spend, or save after taxes are taken out of your paycheck.

The average yearly cost of Idaho car insurance is about $700, which is just under 1.7 percent of the average per capita income for residents.

In more succinct terms, Idaho residents have approximately $3,500 a month to cover living expenses, save, etc. Your monthly car insurance bill will subtract somewhere around $58 from that amount. While that figure might seem small, it adds up over time.

By keeping at least the minimum coverage amounts on your policy required under Idaho car insurance laws and following defensive driving tips, you’ll keep your rates down and save big in the long run.

Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates in ID (Liability, Collision, Comprehensive)

The table above displays data gathered from the most recent study conducted by the NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners. You should expect Idaho car insurance rates to rise in the year 2019 and moving forward credits to car industry inflation.

Take a look at what people are paying on average for car insurance in Idaho, versus in the other 49 states.

Ready to jump into your additional liability coverage options? Let’s go.

Additional Liability Coverage in Idaho

The table from NAIC’s latest report on Idaho’s average loss ratios for car insurance reveals insights crucial for insurers. A loss ratio over 100 indicates payouts exceed premiums earned, posing financial risks. Idaho’s MedPay coverage shows healthy ratios, suggesting insurers might consider adjusting premiums for uninsured motorist coverage, utilized at only 50%.

Idaho ranks 40th in uninsured drivers, prompting insurers to reassess pricing strategies. Data on personal injury protection (PIP) insurance insurance loss ratios was not provided, but optional coverages like PIP, MedPay, and collision remain critical despite being elective in Idaho.

Add-ons, Endorsements, and Riders

In addition to coverage options like MedPay and PIP, there are more add-ons you might want to consider including in your Idaho car insurance policy. Let’s take a look.

• Guaranteed auto protection (gap)
• Personal umbrella policy (pup)
• Rental reimbursement
• Mechanical breakdown insurance
• Non-owner car insurance
• Modified car insurance coverage
• Classic car insurance
• Pay-as-you-go insurance

By carefully evaluating and incorporating these additional coverages, you can tailor your Idaho car insurance policy to better fit your unique needs and circumstances.

Average Monthly Idaho Car Insurance Rates by age & Gender

The two tables below include data from top Idaho car insurance companies, revealing whether or not age and gender actually make a difference in the rates insureds are charged. As a rule of thumb, men are usually charged higher monthly rates than women because they are seen as higher-risk drivers needing high-risk car insurance.

But, what did we discover about Idaho rates for men and women in the course of our research?

Let’s take a look.

Demographic and Insurance Carrier

In the table below, Allstate charges 35-year-old females slightly more ($13) than 35-year-old males. At age 60, males pay about $74 more than females. However, the largest disparity is among 17-year-olds, where males pay over $130 more than females. Teen drivers, regardless of gender, face substantially higher premiums compared to other age groups across all companies listed.

Idaho Demographic & Insurance Carrier Average Annual Rates

Furthermore, car insurance is higher for teenage boys than teenage girls, usually. It is also interesting to note, that both American Family and State Farm charge 35-year-old and 60-year-old drivers the exact same monthly rates, regardless of whether the individual is male or female.

Idaho Monthly Rates by Demographic and Provider

Now, the table above lists out Idaho car insurance companies’ monthly rates according to the age demographic by rank from most to least expensive.

As you can see, Travelers charges the highest monthly rates across the board for teen male drivers. In fact, they charge 17-year-old male drivers approximately $6,500 more than the carrier with the least expensive male teen driver rates, USAA.

For more information, read our Travelers car insurance review.

Highest and Lowest Rates in Idaho by ZIP Code

Did you know that where you live can directly impact your insurance rates? Take a look:

The table below lists the highest and lowest Idaho car insurance rates by ZIP code.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates Highest and Lowest by Zip Code & Provider

Keep an eye on the average monthly rates listed to see how they change based on your address.

Most Expensive/Least Expensive Carrier Rates by City

Search the table below to see how expensive car insurance carrier rates are for your city.

Idaho Full Coverage Car Insurance Monthly Rates by City

It is interesting to note, that smaller cities like Kamiah actually have higher carrier rates than larger ones like Boise.

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Best Idaho Car Insurance Companies

According to J.D. Power, the best car insurance companies in Idaho are PEMCO, The Hartford, and American Family. Financial stability and excellent customer service make these the best car insurance companies in ID. You’ll find that many of the best in Idaho are also the best car insurance companies in the U.S.

Alright, now that you have a better understanding of how factors like age, gender, ZIP code, and city affect your Idaho car insurance rates, let’s take a look at which companies are the best option for consumers and rank highest (or lowest) with insureds.

You won’t want to miss this. Let’s go.

The 10 Largest Idaho Car Insurance Companies’ Financial Ratings

When deciding on an insurance carrier, take the time to make a list of must-haves and wants. See table below:

Idaho Car Insurance Providers A.M. Best Rating

• Idaho is home to many well-known insurance companies such as Allstate, Nationwide, and Easy Auto Tag Insurance
• Remember that when searching for auto insurance, your needs will always be different from the next person. Just because your best friend or brother has gotten insurance from one company, it does not mean that that is the best one for you
• Online comparison shopping is one of the best ways to compare multiple Idaho insurance quotes at one time

There are plenty of options for car insurance in Idaho and each one may work out to be the best for different people.

Where to Start

There are different companies for each county within the state, which is something that you will need to take into account. Some companies will cover statewide, while others will only cover the county that you are in.

Some of the more well-known insurance companies include Nationwide Insurance, which covers the majority of the state. There is also Allstate Insurance Company and Easy Auto Tag and Insurance. Take your time to search online to get free car insurance quotes for your own needs.

Get started with an Allstate vs. Nationwide car insurance comparison.

Remember that when searching for auto insurance, your needs will always be different from the next person. Just because your best friend or brother has gotten insurance from one company, it does not mean that that is the best one for you.

Finding the Cheapest Idaho Car Insurance

The first thing that you want is to find car insurance that is affordable and cheap. Every time it comes to renewing your car insurance, you should check to make sure that you are getting the cheapest deal on your auto cover.

Your renewal costs with your current company are not guaranteed to be cheaper than any of the others out there.

You can find the cheapest car insurance options by checking on our price comparison tool. This is a great way to look at each of the companies and just fill out one form, so it takes much less time and effort. The prices of car insurance will fluctuate.

You also need to remember that you cannot make the cover completely tailored to you. There are chances that by going directly to the companies and telephoning them, you can receive a discount.

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Finding the Best Deals

However, just because you have found the cheapest car insurance in Idaho, it does not mean that it is the best one for you. Take some time to find out what the next ones about any extras and deals that the companies are able to offer for your money. If you pay a little extra, will you get breakdown cover as well?

You may find that paying 100 dollars more for a different provider will lead to more cover in case you are in an accident.

Of course, you may want to compare short-term car insurance to see if it’s a good fit. You may find that you get 10 months of coverage but still get your year’s no-claim bonus to give you the discount the year afterward.

The Type of Insurance

While looking at the prices, you also need to look at the type of car insurance that you are buying. While you want to be protected, you only need third-party insurance as a minimum.

This will cover the costs of anybody that you hit. However, this will not cover the costs of your car and will not cover the costs if anybody hits you. Third-party coverage is enough for some people and may be enough for you, but you will need to sit down and really think about it before you agree to anything.

You can compare full coverage car insurance to find a policy that will cover first-part damages

Research the Company

You need to know more about the company that you are thinking about taking insurance out with. Have you ever heard of the company before today? If they do not show up in search results, there are chances that the company is not legitimate.

You also need to look into whether the insurance company is one that can be trusted to pay out when you ask for it. Research into what will happen if you are hit by a driver who is uninsured since the costs may come out of your own pocket.

Idaho Car Insurance Companies With the BEST Customer Ratings

The graph below shows the most recent data released by J.D. Power in their annual auto insurance consumer satisfaction study by region.

Take a close look to see how the top carriers rank for consumer satisfaction across the state. Now, it’s time to find out which Idaho car insurance companies have the most consumer complaints. Let’s dive right in.

Idaho Car Insurance Companies With the MOST Customer Complaints

The table below reveals the most recent data collected from the Idaho Department of Insurance’s consumer complaint section for auto insurance carriers. It not only shows the companies with the most consumer complaints but details their index, market share percentage, and premiums written.

Idaho Car Insurance Companies with Most Customer Complaints

Bear in mind, customer complaints indicate overall customer satisfaction, so use this as one of the multiple factors when deciding which Idaho car insurance company to go with. You should avoid the car insurance companies with the worst customer satisfaction.

Idaho’s Car Insurance Rates by Provider

Of course, rates are going to be one of your most important decision-making tools when selecting an insurance carrier. Check out the chart below, listing the top Idaho car insurance carriers and their average rates as opposed to the state average.

As you can see Allstate charges the highest average monthly premiums, which are over $200 higher than USAA’s.

For more information, read our in-depth USAA car insurance review.

Commute Rates

The table below juxtaposes the Idaho car insurance rates of top insurers with consumers’ average commute mileage. You’ll notice that Allstate charges the highest premiums to commute rates than any other carrier listed.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Commute & Provider

That said, their premiums are the same for both 10-mile and 25-mile commutes as are those for Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, Farmers, and Travelers. However, car insurance carriers like American Family have an approximate $15 monthly rate difference between 10 vs. 25-mile commutes.

For more information, read our in-depth company reviews:

• Allstate Car Insurance Review
• American Family Car Insurance Review
• State Farm Car Insurance Review
• Liberty Mutual Car Insurance Review
• Farmers Car Insurance Review

Coverage Level Rates

When selecting car insurance, the level of coverage significantly impacts your annual premium. The table below outlines the average rates for various coverage levels—High, Medium, and Low—offered by some of the leading insurance providers.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Different Coverage Levels & Provider

As illustrated in the table, higher coverage levels typically result in higher premiums. This means that choosing a High coverage plan, while offering more comprehensive protection, will cost more annually compared to Medium or Low coverage plans. It’s crucial to balance your coverage needs with your budget to find the most suitable insurance plan.

Credit History Rates

The table below lists Idaho’s top car insurance companies with monthly rates based on credit scores from poor to fair. Credit history influences premiums nationwide, including in Idaho, as insurers gauge payment reliability. According to Experian, Idahoans average a Vantage Score of 681, hold 2.88 credit cards per person, and carry an average balance of $5,817.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Credit Score & Provider

Besides being important for other things like acquiring loans, having a good credit score could make the difference between an affordable car insurance rate and an exorbitant one. For instance, as you can see in the table above, Allstate charges insureds with poor credit scores about $200 more in monthly premiums than individuals with good credit scores. That really adds up.

Alright, let’s take a look now at how your driving record affects your rates. Ready?

Driving Record Rates

Your driving record can have a huge impact on an insurance company’s assessment of your monthly premiums.

Idaho Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Driving Record & Provider

If you look at the table above, you can see that there’s often a significant jump in rates from insureds with clean records to those who have a DUI on their record.The chart below shows how different factors, including a DUI, can impact your car insurance rates.

For example, USAA charges individuals with one DUI violation approximately $1,300 more in premiums than those with a clean record. However, companies like State Farm don’t have such a wide gap. As you can see when you compare car insurance rates after a DUI compared to those with a clean record, a DUI will make premiums increase $160 higher.

The 10 Largest Car Insurance Companies in Idaho

Choosing a car insurance provider can be a daunting task, especially when considering the market landscape. The following table provides an overview of the 10 largest car insurance companies in Idaho, based on direct premiums written, loss ratio, and market share.

Idaho Largest Car Insurance Companies by Loss Ratio & Market Share

Understanding these figures is essential for consumers as it reflects the company’s market dominance and their performance in terms of claims paid (loss ratio). Below, we can see how the market share is divided up between Idaho’s major car insurance companies.

This information can help you understand which companies dominate the market and their financial health through their loss ratios.

Number of Car Insurance Providers in Idaho

Idaho has a diverse landscape of car insurance providers. The table below shows the number of property and casualty insurance providers operating within the state, distinguishing between domestic and foreign entities.

Number of Idaho Car Insurance Companies

With a total of 832 providers, including 10 domestic and 822 foreign entities, Idaho offers a wide range of options for consumers seeking car insurance. This variety ensures competitive rates and numerous choices to fit different needs and preferences.

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Driving Laws in Idaho

If you want to keep your rates down and stay safe whenever you get behind the wheel of your vehicle, it’s imperative to have a good understanding of the current driving laws in place.

From general car insurance laws to vehicle licensing laws to Idaho’s rules of the road, we’ve got you covered. If you follow the law, you won’t have to deal with car insurance rates after a speeding ticket.

So, let’s get down to business.

Idaho Car Insurance Laws

One essential aspect of Idaho’s auto insurance laws that is different from many other states is that despite their minimum liability insurance requirements, a resident can opt to forego liability insurance by posting an indemnity bond with the department of insurance.

Again, it is advisable to always carry at least the minimum required coverage amounts to protect yourself and your assets in the event you get into an accident.

Idaho also adheres to comparative negligence, meaning that the damages you recover from the other party if you get into an accident would be reduced by any percentage of fault allocated to you. We’ll talk about all this, and more, further down.

Let’s get into it.

High-Risk Idaho Car Insurance

If you have a history of speeding violations or bad credit, or DUIs, even if you refuse a breathalyzer test, you might find it difficult to secure Idaho car insurance coverage from your preferred carriers. This is where high-risk auto insurance can become a viable option.

Idaho’s high-risk insurance plan is known as the Idaho Automobile Insurance Plan (or IDAIP). Originating in 1949, IDAIP assigns insurance companies to high-risk drivers. In fact, insurance carriers in the state of Idaho are not permitted to even operate unless they are willing to take on the part of the high-risk driver base.

If you are a high-risk driver and are getting astronomical quotes from insurance companies due to your driving history, IDAIP could be a good option for you. Bear in mind, the plan does not allow you to pick the insurer you want. Insured are assigned a carrier directly through the IDAIP program. To qualify for IDAIP, you must:

• Confirm in writing that you have searched for coverage in the 60 days prior and were rejected, OR
• Been offered carrier rates higher then IDAIP’s

If you are eligible, to proceed with applying for the program, you’ll need to:

• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Have your vehicle registered in Idaho
• Fill out the application

If you missed payments or had a policy canceled due to safety inspection issues in the past year, your application will be rejected. IDAIP offers similar coverage options but at higher rates. Coverage lasts three years, so use this time to improve your driving record for better rates. Contact an Idaho insurance agent or the Department of Insurance for more details.

Low-Cost Insurance

A handful of states offer low-income car insurance for individuals who are disabled or meet a certain income threshold. Idaho, however, is not one of these states and offers no such program.

Windshield Coverage

A number of states require a waived deductible for windshield repairs while some mandate that you use manufacturer replacement parts only. Idaho does not have laws specific to windshield coverage. Used parts are acceptable for repairs if they are of similar type and quality.

So, if you want to have broken windshield car insurance on your policy, you will need to purchase comprehensive Idaho car insurance coverage. See the Idaho Department of Insurance’s Claim Page for additional information regarding windshield repairs.

Automobile Insurance Fraud in Idaho

Insurance fraud is when a person or organization makes an untrue or exaggerated claim to receive compensation for damages that did not actually occur. Insurance fraud takes various shapes and forms, but all are considered a punishable felony under Idaho law.

Let’s take a closer look.

Idaho Statutes 41-293 governs insurance fraud in the state. Anyone who violates these laws will be found guilty of committing a felony. Instances of insurance fraud include:

• Knowingly misrepresenting material facts to an insurer when making a claim or seeking any type of benefit
• Assisting another individual in knowingly misrepresenting material facts to an insurer when making a claim or seeking any type of benefit
• Making a false statement to an insurer regarding an insurance transaction or claim
• Accepting incentive to make a false statement to an insurance company or engaging another individual to do the same
• Giving a different address to get cheaper car insurance

The penalty for insurance fraud in the state of Idaho is:

• An imprisonment term of up to 15 years, and/or
• A $15,000 fine

In addition, offenders will be required to offer restitution to the insurance entity against whom fraud was committed or anyone else who experienced a loss as a result of their illegal activities.

Statute of Limitations

A statute of limitations dictates when you can file a lawsuit, varying by the type of damages and case. In Idaho, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident under Idaho Statute 5-219. Separate from legal deadlines, car insurance claims in Idaho must be reported promptly after an accident, typically within days to weeks.

It’s crucial to inform your insurer as soon as possible to ensure coverage and compliance with legal requirements. Find out if Idaho is one of the most dangerous states for pedestrians by reading our study.

The same statute of limitations applies to wrongful death claims when an individual is killed due to an auto accident and the family wishes to file a lawsuit on that party’s behalf. For property damage matters stemming from an auto accident, your statute of limitations to file a lawsuit is three years from the date of the incident, according to Idaho Statutes 5-218.

Comparative Negligence Rule

Under Idaho’s comparative negligence system, outlined in Idaho Statutes 6-801, you can seek damages even if partially at fault in an accident, but your recovery amount decreases with your percentage of fault. If you’re found 50 percent or more responsible, you can’t recover damages.

For instance, if you’re deemed 30 percent at fault in a $10,000 claim, your recovery would be reduced to $7,000. This system underscores the importance of understanding Idaho’s specific laws to protect your rights in case of an accident.

If you need to learn how to dispute a car insurance claim, read our guide to learn more.

Idaho’s Vehicle Licensing Laws

Alright, ready to dive into Idaho’s vehicle licensing laws? You won’t want to miss these.

Let’s go.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

If caught driving uninsured in Idaho, you face a $75 fine and license suspension until you prove financial responsibility. A second offense within five years incurs a $5,000 fine, possible imprisonment for six months, and a longer insurance proof requirement.

To avoid penalties without insurance, post a $50,000 bodily injury and $15,000 property damage indemnity bond with the Idaho Department of Insurance director.

Under Idaho Statutes 49-1232 acceptable proof of insurance may be shown in either paper or electronic form to the responding officer.

Teen Driver Laws

To earn your learner’s permit in Idaho you must be at least 14 years and 6 months of age. To earn a restricted license, you must:

• Hold a learner’s license for at least six months
• Have a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving time, 10 of which should be at night
• Be at least 15

Restrictions during the intermediate licensing stage include:

• Nighttime driving restrictions between sunset and sunrise
• Drivers 16 and younger may only drive family members and can have no more than one passenger under the age of 17

The minimum age at which these restrictions can be lifted are:

• 16 years old for nighttime driving restrictions
• 17 or after holding intermediate license for 6 months for passenger restrictions

It is important to note, that in the state of Idaho, teen drivers under the age of 17 applying for their license must go through driver education. Learner’s licenses have three classes:

• Training permits for individuals that are at least 14 years and 6 months
• Supervised permits for nonprofessional supervised driving
• Instruction permits for individuals under the age of 17 who have finished driver’s education and supervision, OR
• Who are 17 and up without the driver’s education or supervision

While young drivers aren’t required to to take driving education classes, driver’s ed car insurance discounts are available for teens who complete the course.

Older Driver and General Population License Renewal Procedure

In this section, we outline the specific license renewal procedures for older drivers compared to the general population. Understanding these procedures is essential for ensuring compliance with state regulations and maintaining road safety.

The license renewal procedures for older drivers are:

• Renew every four years for individuals 63 years old and up
• Proof of adequate vision must be provided at each renewal

The license renewal procedures for the general population are:

• Renew every 4-8 years, the choice is yours
• Proof of adequate vision must be provided at each renewal

These procedures are designed to balance the convenience of the renewal process with the need to ensure that all drivers meet essential vision standards, thereby contributing to overall road safety.

New Residents

If you’ve just moved to The Gem State, you’ll need to apply for your Idaho driver’s license within 90 days of when you establish residency to convert your older driver’s license over. Below are the documents you’ll need to provide to apply for your Idaho driver’s license:

• Proof of Idaho residence
• Proof of age and identity
• Proof of lawful U.S. presence
• Proof of name change (if needed)
• Payment for necessary fees

Acceptable proof of residence documents are:

• A rental agreement
• A utility bill
• School enrollment records

Acceptable proof of age and identity documents are:

• Your passport
• Your birth certificate
• Your citizenship certificate

Acceptable proof of lawful U.S. presence documents are:

• Foreign passport with I-94 printout and your valid visa
• Permanent resident card
• Citizenship certificate

If you need to provide proof of name change, acceptable documents are:

• Court order
• Certified divorce documents
• Certified marriage certificate

Driver’s license fees are as follows:

• 18-21 years of age: $30 with a three-year license validity
• 20 years of age: $15 with a one-year license validity
• 21 years of age and up: $30 with a four-year license validity
• 21-62 years of age: $55 with an eight-year license validity

Additional fees for taking DMV tests are:

• $3 for the written knowledge test
• $28.50 in testing fees for the driving test
• $6.50 in county fees for the driving test

Visit the Idaho Division of Motor Vehicle’s website for additional details.

Don’t let your license expire because it may be hard to get car insurance with an expired license.

Negligent Operator Treatment System

In the state of Idaho, reckless driving is categorized as a misdemeanor crime. Drivers can be convicted for reckless driving for:

• Driving thoughtlessly in a way that causes danger to other individuals or property
• Passing another car when the lane has a line showing restrictions on sight distance

The associated penalties for reckless driving are:

• First offense: Up to six months imprisonment and/or up to $1,000 in fines
• Following offenses (within five years): Up to 1 years imprisonment and/or up to $2,000 in fines

If convicted, drivers also face a 30-day license suspension for the first offense, a 90-day license suspension for another offense within two years, and a one-year license suspension for a third offense within three years.

Idaho also categorizes inattentive driving as a misdemeanor, although it is a lesser offense than reckless driving. The difference between inattentive driving and reckless driving is that the former is more careless, while the latter involves driving a vehicle in a clearly dangerous way.

Penalties for inattentive driving are also less grave than those for reckless driving. Find out if Idaho makes the list of states with the most reckless drivers.

If convicted of inattentive driving, the penalties are:

• 90 days of imprisonment and/or
• Up to $300 in fines
• 3 demerit points on the driver’s record

If a driver is given 12 or more demerit points in a year’s time, this will result in having their license suspended.

Idaho’s Rules of the Road

Want to know more about Idaho’s rules of the road? You’ve come to the right place. Here’s a detailed overview of rules like fault vs. no-fault, keep right and move over laws, state speed limits, and so much more.

Check it out.

Fault vs. No-Fault

Like most states, Idaho adheres to the fault system regarding damages incurred from an auto accident, such as property damage, injuries, lost wages, etc. Whoever is at fault for the auto accident, their insurance company will compensate the injured party or parties up to and until policy limits are exhausted.

The states that have no-fault driving laws require no-fault car insurance.

If you get into an auto accident caused by another driver, you have a few options to proceed:

• File a claim with your own auto insurance company in the event that the loss is covered (in which case your insurance carrier will probably file a subrogation claim with the at-fault party’s insurer)
• File a claim straight with the at-fault party’s insurance carrier
• File a civil suit for personal injuries against the other driver

Remember. If you are at fault for the accident, your insurance company will compensate any individuals injured for damages they incur up to your policy limits. It is wise to consider maintaining coverages above the minimum Idaho car insurance requirements, to ensure your assets don’t end up on the line in the event of a serious accident.

Keep Right and Move Over Laws

According to Idaho Statutes 49-630, the state’s keep right law, drivers must keep right if they are driving slower than the average speed of traffic around them.

The state’s move over law, requires drivers to move a lane over or slow their speed under the posted speed limit if nearing stationary emergency services or a police vehicle.

A breach of these statutes is considered a moving violation, with three demerit points assessed for each. A $90 citation could also apply. (For more information, read our “Will an expired vehicle inspection citation increase my car insurance rates?“)

Speed Limits

In Idaho, the maximum posted speed limit on rural interstates is typically 75 mph on most roads, increasing to 80 mph in certain areas. The same goes for urban interstates.

Trucks must adhere to slightly lower speed limits of 70 mph on rural interstates and 65 mph on urban interstates. For all other roads and limited access roads, the speed limit is 70 mph.

Seat Belt and Car Seat Laws

Do seatbelt laws affect your insurance? If you violate the law, you may pay higher insurance rates. In the state of Idaho, all passengers seven years old and up must be restrained with a seat belt. A first-time violation carries a $10 fine.

All children six years of age and under must be fastened in a child restraint and may not use an adult seat belt. A first-time violation carries a $79 fine.

While some states impose pickup truck passenger restrictions, besides Idaho’s seat belt and car seat laws, there are no legal restrictions on passengers riding in truck cargo areas.

Ridesharing

Rideshare services like Uber require drivers to carry personal car insurance policies that either match or exceed state required minimum coverages. Uber has a one-million-dollar commercial policy in place for drivers in Idaho. They also provide contingent coverage limits of $50,000/$100,000/$25,000 if the driver’s personal policy does not cover any portion of a driving period.

Lyft provides the same coverage options. The commercial and contingent coverage limits are great news for drivers and passengers since rideshare drivers rarely carry their own commercial policy, although they should have a rideshare car insurance rider from their private insurer.

Automation on the Road

The state of Idaho does not currently have any legislation in place regarding autonomous vehicles. Back in January 2018, the governor created the Autonomous and Connected Vehicle Testing and Deployment Committee to promote further study of automation on the road.

While autonomous vehicles are a ways off from being a regular fixture on Idaho interstates, who knows what lies in store?

Idaho’s Safety Laws

Alright, ready to dive into Idaho’s key safety laws? Keep reading and you’ll find out.

DUI Laws

Look at the table below for more in-depth details on Idaho’s DUI insurance laws you need to know.

Idaho DUI Laws

Staying informed and adhering to these regulations not only helps avoid legal issues but also promotes safer roads for everyone. Always make responsible choices to prevent DUI-related incidents and their serious repercussions.

Marijuana-Impaired Driving Laws

While some states allow the legal use of marijuana, Idaho has very strict laws prohibiting the drug. In fact, if you are found to possess over three ounces of marijuana, you will be charged with a felony.

Anyone found selling marijuana could face up to 10 years in prison and $30,000 in fines. While there are no specific laws in place regarding driving under the influence of marijuana, it’s certainly not advised.

Distracted Driving Laws

With regard to distracted driving laws, Idaho does not impose any specific legal bans on hand-held devices. However, there is a texting ban in place for all drivers.

Idaho Fascinating Facts you Need to Know

OK, now it’s time for Idaho’s fascinating facts ALL drivers need to know. Let’s get this show on the road.

Vehicle Theft in Idaho

The table below shows the top 10 stolen vehicles in Idaho. In 2013, there were over 200 motor vehicle thefts in Boise alone. Visit the FBI Crime Report for Idaho to see where your city ranks.

Idaho Annual Car Thefts by Model

When you understand how cars are stolen, you can better protect yourself.

Risky/Harmful Driving Behavior

Another key component to staying safe on the road is understanding common risky driving behaviors in your state.

Here’s what you need to know…

2017 Traffic Fatalities

In this section, we present the statistics on traffic fatalities that occurred in 2017. This data provides an overview of the total number of fatalities, segmented by rural and urban areas, and highlights key insights into where traffic safety improvements are most needed.

Idaho Traffic Fatalities by Location

The data reveals that rural areas experience a significantly higher number of traffic fatalities compared to urban areas, indicating a critical need for enhanced safety measures in rural regions.

Fatalities by Person Type

This section breaks down the traffic fatalities by the type of person involved, offering a detailed look at the impact on different groups such as drivers, passengers, motorcyclists, and nonoccupants.

Idaho Traffic Fatalities by Driver Type

Understanding which groups are most affected by traffic accidents helps in tailoring safety measures to protect all road users effectively. This data emphasizes the higher vulnerability of motorcyclists and nonoccupants in traffic incidents.

Fatalities by Crash Type

The following table categorizes fatalities based on the type of crash. This includes single vehicle crashes, those involving large trucks, speeding, rollovers, roadway departures, and intersections.

Idaho Traffic Fatalities by Crash Type

These insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to prevent the most deadly types of crashes. For example, interventions to reduce roadway departures and rollovers could significantly impact overall fatality rates.

Five Year Trend for the Top 10 Counties

This section illustrates the five-year trend of traffic fatalities in the top 10 counties, highlighting patterns and changes over time. It provides a longitudinal view of how traffic safety is evolving at the county level.

Idaho Traffic Fatalities by County

Analyzing these trends helps in understanding the progress and setbacks in traffic safety across different regions, guiding future policy and enforcement efforts.

Fatalities Involving Speeding by Top 10 Counties

This table shows the fatalities involving speeding in the top 10 counties over a five-year period. It provides both the raw numbers and the fatality rates per 100,000 people, offering a comprehensive view of the impact of speeding on traffic deaths.

Idaho Fatalities Involving Speeding by County

These statistics illustrate the significant impact of speeding on traffic fatalities and underscore the importance of enforcing speed limits and implementing traffic calming measures.

Fatalities in Crashes Involving an Alcohol-Impaired Driver by Top 10 Counties

This section provides data on fatalities in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers in the top 10 counties over the past five years. Both the raw numbers and the rates per 100,000 people are included to give a full picture of the issue.

Idaho Fatalities Involving an Alcohol-Impaired Driver by County

These figures highlight the persistent issue of alcohol-impaired driving and its devastating impact on road safety. Effective measures are needed to curb this dangerous behavior.

Teen Drinking and Driving

This section focuses on the specific issue of teen drinking and driving, presenting data on under-21 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities and DUI arrests among those under 18.

Idaho Teen Drinking and Driving Statistics

The data shows that the rate of under-21 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities is higher than the national average, indicating a need for stronger preventive measures and educational programs targeting young drivers.

EMS Response Time

In this section, we analyze the EMS response times for fatal crashes in rural and urban areas. The times are divided into two segments: from the time of the crash to EMS notification, and from EMS notification to EMS arrival.

Idaho EMS Response Time by Location

These response times highlight the challenges faced by EMS in rural areas, where longer notification and arrival times can impact the chances of survival. Efforts to improve EMS response in rural regions are crucial for enhancing emergency care outcomes.

Transportation

Residents of Idaho have shorter commute times than most workers in the U.S., hitting about 19.7 minutes on average. Only about 1.79 percent of Idaho’s working population have what is known as a “super commute”, or commutes exceeding 90 minutes.

From its impressive outdoor playground for a wide range of recreational activities to its exquisite water views to its beautiful, mountainous cities and towns, The Gem State has a lot going for it.

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