Connecticut Car Insurance Guide (Cheap Rates + Best Companies)

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Rachel Bodine

Insurance Feature Writer

Rachel Bodine graduated from college with a BA in English. She has since worked as a Feature Writer in the insurance industry and gained a deep knowledge of state and countrywide insurance laws and rates. Her research and writing focus on helping readers understand their insurance coverage and how to find savings. Her expert advice on insurance has been featured on sites like PhotoEnforced, All...

Insurance Feature Writer

Eric Stauffer

Licensed Insurance Agent

Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...

Licensed Insurance Agent

UPDATED: Nov 1, 2023

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It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.

Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider.

Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about car insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything car insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by car insurance experts.


Connecticut
Connecticut Statistic Summary
Road Miles 21,512
Registered Vehicles 2,755,233
State Population 3,572,665
Percentage of
Uninsured Motorists
9.40
Driving Deaths Speeding: 856 Drunk Driving: 1,064
Average Premiums Annually
Liability: $650.94 Collision: $368.51 Comprehensive: $131.62
Cheapest Provider: State Farm Mutual Auto

A collection of seaside cities and prestigious colleges, Connecticut features an array of state attractions. For those that live in Connecticut, though, vehicle transportation to Connecticut’s attractions requires car insurance.

But with over two million vehicles registered in Connecticut, there is a dizzying amount of providers offering car insurance!

It can be hard to fish out the information you need to make a decision, and even harder to find a provider that is right for you. We want to help you with this process, as well as provide you with important information about providers, state requirements, laws, and can’t-miss driving facts.

Read this comprehensive guide to learn about all this and much more! Want to start comparing rates today? Enter your zip code in our FREE online tool above!

Table of Contents

How to Get Connecticut Car Insurance Coverage and Rates

With so many rates and coverage options out there, it can be difficult to pick out ones that fit both your wallet and your needs. Additionally, every state has different coverage requirements, making moving even more confusing.

Don’t worry, we are going to help guide you through the process of picking out coverage options by explaining what you need and what you should have.

Keep scrolling to learn about Connecticut’s car insurance requirements and average rates.

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What’s Connecticut Minimum Car Insurance Coverage?

It is against the law to drive without car insurance in Connecticut. At the bare MINIMUM, Connecticut requires drivers to have bodily injury liability, property damage, and uninsured/underinsured coverages.

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Connecticut requires bodily injury and property damage coverages in the following amounts.

  • $25,000 to cover injury costs of one person in an accident
  • $50,000 to cover injury costs of all people in an accident
  • $20,000 to cover property damages from an accident

You are also required to have uninsured and underinsured coverage, the importance of which we will cover shortly.

If you are a motorcyclist, Connecticut requires you to carry the same coverages as motor vehicle owners.

What are the Forms of Financial Responsibility?

So how do you prove that you have car insurance? In Connecticut, you must provide a form of proof of car insurance, also known as a form of financial responsibility.

According to the DMV, the following are acceptable forms of proof of financial responsibility.

  • A declaration page
  • Valid permanent insurance card

The following forms are NOT acceptable.

  • Temporary insurance cards
  • Bills
  • Insurance binders

You must provide acceptable proof of financial responsibility in the following situations.

  • Traffic stop
  • Registering your car
  • When in an accident

If you are unable to provide proof of insurance in a timely manner or don’t have insurance, you face penalties such as fines, jail time, or license/registration suspension.

What Percentage of Income are Insurance Premiums?

Your per capita disposable income is the amount of money you have to spend or save after taxes. We want to take a look at how much Connecticut residents have to spend each year, and how much car insurance takes out of that budget.

Connecticut resident’s average per capita disposable income is $56,186, which is about $16,000 more than the countrywide average!

The bad news is that while the average Connecticut resident makes more than other U.S. state residents, Connecticut’s insurance rates are also HIGHER than the countrywide average.

The cost of full coverage in Connecticut is $1,132, which is $151 more than most Americans pay.

This means that out of a monthly budget of $4,682, about $94 is going to purchase car insurance. This isn’t terrible, but it does pay to shop around for auto insurance providers and the lowest rates to make sure you are getting the best deal possible!

After all, that monthly budget is needed for necessities other than car insurance, such as groceries, rent, and gas.

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What are the Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates in CT (Liability, Collision, Comprehensive)

Let’s take a look at the average costs of core auto insurance coverage in Connecticut and how they compare to the nationwide averages.

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Coverage Type Average Annual Cost
Liability $650.94
Collision $368.51
Comprehensive $131.62
Full Coverage Annual Premium $1,151.07

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Because the nationwide overall cost for car insurance is $1,009.38, Connecticut’s costs are a little on the higher end.

Is There an Additional Coverage?

Remember when we said Connecticut requires uninsured and underinsured coverage? Well, we are going to take a look at this coverage and why it is important, as well as another additional coverage option — Medpay.

  • Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage — If you are in an accident and the person at fault is uninsured or underinsured, the likelihood is that the at-fault person will be unable to pay off the accident costs. Uninsured and underinsured motorists risk going bankrupt in an accident, as accident costs can quickly add up. This means you will be stuck paying the bills yourself unless you have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.
  • Medpay Coverage — Medpay coverage will pay off both your medical costs and your passengers’ medical costs from an accident, from ambulance rides to treatment.

To see how well these coverages are performing, we want to take a look at the coverages’ loss ratios in Connecticut. Loss ratios show the financial strength of a company.

A high loss ratio that is over 100 percent is bad, as it means a company is paying out too many claims for the premium it has collected and risks going bankrupt. On the other hand, a very low loss ratio means that a company might have overpriced its coverage.

So let’s take a look at the coverages’ loss ratios in Connecticut. We’ve also included personal injury protection’s loss ratio, which you may remember is required in the state of Connecticut.

Coverage Type201320142015
Personal Injury Protection95.4078.5477.20
Medpay 84.1378.0879.20
Uninsured and Underinsured66.2961.9057.37

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The bad news is that every coverages’ loss ratio has slightly decreased. The good news is that none of them have reached terribly low levels, and they are still decent loss ratios.

As well, don’t let the decrease in loss ratios scare you away. These coverages are important to have!

9.4 percent of motorists are uninsured in Connecticut, placing the state at rank 36th for uninsured motorists. Uninsured/underinsured coverage is vital if you are in an accident with one of these drivers.

So make sure to have all the additional coverages necessary, as it’s not worth it to be stuck paying the bills yourself in an accident!

Are There Any Add-ons, Endorsements, and Riders?

Add-on coverages are useful for when you want extra protection at an affordable price. Check out some of the most popular add-ons below.

  • Guaranteed Auto Protection (GAP)
  • Personal Umbrella Policy (PUP) — PUP provides extra coverage in case your liability limits are exhausted.
  • Rental Reimbursement
  • Emergency Roadside Assistance
  • Mechanical Breakdown Insurance — Pays for vehicle repairs that were NOT caused by an accident.
  • Non-Owner Car Insurance — If you’re driving a vehicle you don’t own, this insurance provides you with bodily injury and property damage liability coverages.
  • Modified Car Insurance Coverage — You’ll need this coverage if you modify your car (anything from a custom paint job to engine changes).
  • Classic Car Insurance — Classic car insurance is generally cheaper because classic cars aren’t driven as much.
  • Pay-As-You-Drive Insurance — This insurance lets you pay less if you drive less.

Ask your insurance provider about the above add-ons, as your provider can help you create a customized plan that fits your needs.

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What are the Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates by Age & Gender in CT?

Demographics actually play a significant role in how much a person pays for car insurance. From marital status to credit score, everything has an impact on costs.

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To help you see how companies change rates based on demographics, we’ve included multiple demographics’ impact on car insurance rates.

CompanyMarried 35-year old female annual rateMarried 35-year old male annual rateMarried 60-year old female annual rateMarried 60-year old male annual rateSingle 25-year old female annual rateSingle 25-year old male annual rateSingle 17-year old female annual rateSingle 17-year old male annual rate
Allstate F&C$3,673.14$3,634.67$3,382.07$3,621.23$3,843.87$4,038.70$11,215.24$13,243.90
Geico General$2,272.26$2,278.35$2,107.40$2,124.47$2,191.49$2,126.23$5,263.28$6,225.80
Safeco Ins Co of IL$3,516.76$3,825.92$2,706.04$3,337.15$3,558.72$3,883.84$17,597.17$19,837.39
Nationwide Discover Agency$2,343.37$2,370.04$2,105.93$2,209.18$2,717.04$2,921.42$6,485.04$8,226.75
Progressive Casualty$2,642.90$2,461.27$2,252.80$2,346.17$3,016.42$3,379.83$11,031.05$12,232.33
State Farm Mutual Auto$1,815.86$1,815.86$1,670.41$1,670.41$2,041.38$2,342.71$5,517.07$6,936.22
Travelers Home & Marine Ins Co$1,810.97$1,837.61$1,806.15$1,800.54$1,970.21$2,216.01$13,987.79$22,605.07
USAA CIC$1,958.26$1,937.36$1,826.50$1,802.82$2,622.21$2,716.62$6,175.72$6,480.54

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Gender and age play a large role in rates. Younger males tend to pay more than females, especially in the teen years. Teens also pay the highest rates if purchasing their own car insurance, which is why most parents will place teens on the parents’ insurance plan.

Curious to see what demographics have the highest costs in Connecticut? Take a look at the table below.

RankCompanyDemographicAverage Annual Rate
1Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoSingle 17-year old male$22,605.07
2Safeco Ins Co of ILSingle 17-year old male$19,837.39
3Safeco Ins Co of ILSingle 17-year old female$17,597.17
4Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoSingle 17-year old female$13,987.79
5Allstate F&CSingle 17-year old male$13,243.90
6Progressive CasualtySingle 17-year old male$12,232.33
7Allstate F&CSingle 17-year old female$11,215.24
8Progressive CasualtySingle 17-year old female$11,031.05
9Nationwide Discover AgencySingle 17-year old male$8,226.75
10State Farm Mutual AutoSingle 17-year old male$6,936.22
11Nationwide Discover AgencySingle 17-year old female$6,485.04
12USAA CICSingle 17-year old male$6,480.54
13Geico GeneralSingle 17-year old male$6,225.80
14USAA CICSingle 17-year old female$6,175.72
15State Farm Mutual AutoSingle 17-year old female$5,517.07
16Geico GeneralSingle 17-year old female$5,263.28
17Allstate F&CSingle 25-year old male$4,038.70
18Safeco Ins Co of ILSingle 25-year old male$3,883.84
19Allstate F&CSingle 25-year old female$3,843.87
20Safeco Ins Co of ILMarried 35-year old male$3,825.92
21Allstate F&CMarried 35-year old female$3,673.14
22Allstate F&CMarried 35-year old male$3,634.67
23Allstate F&CMarried 60-year old male$3,621.23
24Safeco Ins Co of ILSingle 25-year old female$3,558.72
25Safeco Ins Co of ILMarried 35-year old female$3,516.76
26Allstate F&CMarried 60-year old female$3,382.07
27Progressive CasualtySingle 25-year old male$3,379.83
28Safeco Ins Co of ILMarried 60-year old male$3,337.15
29Progressive CasualtySingle 25-year old female$3,016.42
30Nationwide Discover AgencySingle 25-year old male$2,921.42
31Nationwide Discover AgencySingle 25-year old female$2,717.04
32USAA CICSingle 25-year old male$2,716.62
33Safeco Ins Co of ILMarried 60-year old female$2,706.04
34Progressive CasualtyMarried 35-year old female$2,642.90
35USAA CICSingle 25-year old female$2,622.21
36Progressive CasualtyMarried 35-year old male$2,461.27
37Nationwide Discover AgencyMarried 35-year old male$2,370.04
38Progressive CasualtyMarried 60-year old male$2,346.17
39Nationwide Discover AgencyMarried 35-year old female$2,343.37
40State Farm Mutual AutoSingle 25-year old male$2,342.71
41Geico GeneralMarried 35-year old male$2,278.35
42Geico GeneralMarried 35-year old female$2,272.26
43Progressive CasualtyMarried 60-year old female$2,252.80
44Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoSingle 25-year old male$2,216.01
45Nationwide Discover AgencyMarried 60-year old male$2,209.18
46Geico GeneralSingle 25-year old female$2,191.49
47Geico GeneralSingle 25-year old male$2,126.23
48Geico GeneralMarried 60-year old male$2,124.47
49Geico GeneralMarried 60-year old female$2,107.40
50Nationwide Discover AgencyMarried 60-year old female$2,105.93
51State Farm Mutual AutoSingle 25-year old female$2,041.38
52Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoSingle 25-year old female$1,970.21
53USAA CICMarried 35-year old female$1,958.26
54USAA CICMarried 35-year old male$1,937.36
55Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoMarried 35-year old male$1,837.61
56USAA CICMarried 60-year old female$1,826.50
57State Farm Mutual AutoMarried 35-year old female$1,815.86
57State Farm Mutual AutoMarried 35-year old male$1,815.86
59Travelers Home & Marine Ins CoMarried 35-year old female$1,810.97

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What are the Cheapest Rates by ZIP Code?

The area you live in is another rate changer. Where you live can sometimes have an ENORMOUS impact on your rates. We’ve also included insurers by area so you can check who the cheapest car insurance provider is in your ZIP code.

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Most Expensive ZIP Codes in Connecticut CityAverage Annual Rate by ZIP CodeMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Annual Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive Annual RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Annual Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Annual Rate
06103HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06105HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06106HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06112HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06114HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06120HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06160HARTFORD$6,373.96Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06510NEW HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06511NEW HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06512EAST HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06513NEW HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06515NEW HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06519NEW HAVEN$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
06101HARTFORD$6,148.49Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06152HARTFORD$6,148.49Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
06604BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06605BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06606BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06607BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06608BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06610BRIDGEPORT$6,112.78Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
06650BRIDGEPORT$5,793.71Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42Geico$3,632.90State Farm$4,104.01
06702WATERBURY$5,790.41Travelers$8,351.14Liberty Mutual$8,132.56USAA$3,668.44State Farm$3,833.37
06704WATERBURY$5,790.41Travelers$8,351.14Liberty Mutual$8,132.56USAA$3,668.44State Farm$3,833.37
06705WATERBURY$5,790.41Travelers$8,351.14Liberty Mutual$8,132.56USAA$3,668.44State Farm$3,833.37

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There is over a $2,000 difference between the most and least expensive ZIP codes! That’s quite of bit of a cost difference!

Cheapest ZIP Codes in Connecticut CityAverage Annual Rate by ZIP CodesMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Annual Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive Annual RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Annual Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Annual Rate
06340GROTON$3,896.10Liberty Mutual$6,416.79Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,455.10State Farm$2,654.24
06355MYSTIC$3,986.37Liberty Mutual$6,416.79Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,455.10State Farm$2,654.24
06331CANTERBURY$4,028.12Liberty Mutual$6,378.51Allstate$5,403.39Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
06333EAST LYME$4,041.05Liberty Mutual$6,503.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
06357NIANTIC$4,041.05Liberty Mutual$6,503.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
06359NORTH STONINGTON$4,068.88Liberty Mutual$6,326.05Allstate$5,225.68Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
06226WILLIMANTIC$4,070.37Liberty Mutual$6,913.93Allstate$5,338.09State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
06266SOUTH WINDHAM$4,070.37Liberty Mutual$6,913.93Allstate$5,338.09State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
06280WINDHAM$4,070.37Liberty Mutual$6,913.93Allstate$5,338.09State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
06475OLD SAYBROOK$4,076.16Liberty Mutual$6,631.86Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
06264SCOTLAND$4,084.21Liberty Mutual$6,537.83Allstate$5,403.39Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
06334BOZRAH$4,085.37Liberty Mutual$6,821.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
06371OLD LYME$4,087.72Liberty Mutual$6,430.78Travelers$5,354.34Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
06426ESSEX$4,088.33Liberty Mutual$6,693.61Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
06442IVORYTON$4,088.33Liberty Mutual$6,693.61Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
06420SALEM$4,091.02Liberty Mutual$6,780.41Allstate$5,237.70State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,708.26
06498WESTBROOK$4,093.66Liberty Mutual$6,728.53Allstate$5,244.00State Farm$2,666.69Geico$2,832.06
06375QUAKER HILL$4,094.49Liberty Mutual$6,643.12Travelers$5,363.30State Farm$2,654.24USAA$2,700.71
06385WATERFORD$4,094.49Liberty Mutual$6,643.12Travelers$5,363.30State Farm$2,654.24USAA$2,700.71
06249LEBANON$4,099.90Liberty Mutual$6,376.82Allstate$5,469.52State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
06417DEEP RIVER$4,103.33Liberty Mutual$7,027.36Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
06332CENTRAL VILLAGE$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
06354MOOSUP$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
06374PLAINFIELD$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
06423EAST HADDAM$4,112.43Liberty Mutual$6,707.15Travelers$5,328.44Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69

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What are the Cheapest Rates by City?

Just like ZIP codes, cities have varying rates.

Most Expensive Cities in Connecticut Average Annual Rate by CityMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Annual Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive Annual RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Annual Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Annual Rate
Hartford$6,323.85Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$9,887.85Geico$4,205.53USAA$4,206.85
East Haven$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
New Haven$6,173.99Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$8,718.72State Farm$3,935.59Geico$4,223.88
Bridgeport$6,067.20Liberty Mutual$9,542.38Travelers$8,780.42State Farm$4,104.01USAA$4,160.98
Waterbury$5,790.41Travelers$8,351.14Liberty Mutual$8,132.56USAA$3,668.44State Farm$3,833.37
West Haven$5,574.19Liberty Mutual$8,292.16Travelers$7,392.35State Farm$3,664.33Geico$3,818.52
Hamden$5,500.65Liberty Mutual$8,433.73Progressive$7,127.90State Farm$3,300.29Geico$3,695.54
South Britain$5,154.91Travelers$9,256.06Liberty Mutual$7,593.52Geico$3,123.27State Farm$3,125.79
East Hartford$5,131.08Liberty Mutual$7,723.42Travelers$6,353.95USAA$3,350.48State Farm$3,667.23
Woodbridge$5,126.81Liberty Mutual$8,032.50Allstate$6,902.19Geico$3,126.08State Farm$3,300.29
Milford$5,105.40Liberty Mutual$7,939.79Travelers$6,838.54State Farm$2,888.56Geico$3,127.90
East Glastonbury$5,103.26Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$7,311.53USAA$2,855.32Geico$3,033.26
North Haven$5,079.93Liberty Mutual$8,186.95Travelers$6,838.54State Farm$3,232.22Geico$3,500.50
Stratford$5,035.21Liberty Mutual$8,284.57Allstate$6,438.54State Farm$3,322.57USAA$3,447.97
Milldale$5,026.12Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$7,018.89USAA$2,855.32State Farm$2,876.04
Naugatuck$5,020.78Liberty Mutual$8,194.68Allstate$6,565.08State Farm$3,125.79Geico$3,483.96
Branford$5,015.32Liberty Mutual$8,134.73Travelers$6,435.56Geico$3,062.65State Farm$3,232.22
Prospect$5,005.80Liberty Mutual$8,135.07Allstate$6,565.08State Farm$3,125.79USAA$3,452.12
New Britain$5,004.15Liberty Mutual$7,650.63Travelers$6,948.18USAA$3,482.43State Farm$3,501.20
Bloomfield$4,999.25Liberty Mutual$7,311.53Travelers$6,783.66State Farm$3,243.57USAA$3,350.48
North Branford$4,989.45Liberty Mutual$7,819.09Travelers$6,811.12State Farm$3,232.22Geico$3,253.57
Shelton$4,965.43Liberty Mutual$7,712.67Travelers$6,496.25USAA$3,259.50State Farm$3,322.57
Poquonock$4,961.51Travelers$9,948.34Liberty Mutual$7,235.38State Farm$2,604.03USAA$2,855.32
Orange$4,955.71Liberty Mutual$7,519.57Allstate$6,521.58State Farm$2,888.56Geico$3,127.90
Derby$4,940.32Liberty Mutual$7,514.91Allstate$6,902.19State Farm$3,300.29Geico$3,398.46

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Not surprisingly, Bridgeport and New Haven, the state’s two largest cities, also have some of the highest rates.

Cheapest Cities in Connecticut Average Annual Rate by CityMost Expensive CompanyMost Expensive Annual Rate2nd Most Expensive Company2nd Most Expensive Annual RateCheapest CompanyCheapest Annual Rate2nd Cheapest Company2nd Cheapest Annual Rate
Conning Towers Nautilus Park$3,896.10Liberty Mutual$6,416.79Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,455.10State Farm$2,654.24
Mystic$3,986.37Liberty Mutual$6,416.79Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,455.10State Farm$2,654.24
Canterbury$4,028.12Liberty Mutual$6,378.51Allstate$5,403.39Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
East Lyme$4,041.05Liberty Mutual$6,503.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
Niantic$4,041.05Liberty Mutual$6,503.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
North Stonington$4,068.88Liberty Mutual$6,326.05Allstate$5,225.68Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
South Windham$4,070.37Liberty Mutual$6,913.93Allstate$5,338.09State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
Windham$4,070.37Liberty Mutual$6,913.93Allstate$5,338.09State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
Old Saybrook$4,076.16Liberty Mutual$6,631.86Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
Scotland$4,084.20Liberty Mutual$6,537.83Allstate$5,403.39Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
Bozrah$4,085.37Liberty Mutual$6,821.20Allstate$5,237.70Geico$2,637.09State Farm$2,684.12
Old Lyme$4,087.72Liberty Mutual$6,430.78Travelers$5,354.34Geico$2,573.58State Farm$2,666.69
Essex Village$4,088.33Liberty Mutual$6,693.61Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
Ivoryton$4,088.33Liberty Mutual$6,693.61Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
Salem$4,091.02Liberty Mutual$6,780.41Allstate$5,237.70State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,708.26
Westbrook$4,093.66Liberty Mutual$6,728.53Allstate$5,244.00State Farm$2,666.69Geico$2,832.06
Quaker Hill$4,094.49Liberty Mutual$6,643.12Travelers$5,363.30State Farm$2,654.24USAA$2,700.71
Waterford$4,094.49Liberty Mutual$6,643.12Travelers$5,363.30State Farm$2,654.24USAA$2,700.71
Lebanon$4,099.90Liberty Mutual$6,376.82Allstate$5,469.52State Farm$2,684.12Geico$2,784.21
Deep River$4,103.33Liberty Mutual$7,027.36Allstate$5,244.00Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
Central Village$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
Moosup$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
Plainfield$4,105.28Liberty Mutual$6,571.22Allstate$5,573.25Geico$2,545.86State Farm$2,684.12
East Haddam$4,112.43Liberty Mutual$6,707.15Travelers$5,328.44Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69
Moodus$4,112.43Liberty Mutual$6,707.15Travelers$5,328.44Geico$2,480.89State Farm$2,666.69

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What are Some of the Best Connecticut Car Insurance Companies?

With over two million cars in Connecticut requiring insurance, car insurance companies are numerous. With all of them competing for your attention, picking out an insurance company that meets your needs is hard!

Companies also tend to make the same promises, making it hard to know which company is actually best.

To help you make the right choice, we’ve collected everything you need to know. From auto insurance companies’ ratings to premium rates, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Connecticut’s insurance companies!

What is the Financial Rating of the Largest Companies?

What is an AM Best rating? Basically, AM Best rates a company’s financial strength (if the company has a good or bad financial future ahead of it).

Company AM Best Rating Direct Premiums Written Loss Ratio Market Share
GeicoA++$528,90775.82%18.02%
Allstate Insurance GroupA+$304,02854.93%10.36%
Liberty Mutual GroupA$297,60264.66%10.14%
Progressive GroupA+$268,00163.25%9.13%
Travelers GroupA++$195,42172.77%6.66%
State Farm GroupA$192,40161.48%6.55%
USAA GroupA++$137,61770.23%4.69%
Nationwide Corp GroupA+$123,13063.22%4.19%
Amica Mutual GroupA+$111,15260.16%3.79%
Metropolitan GroupA$105,12959.38%3.58%

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All of the largest insurance companies in Connecticut have excellent AM Ratings (A++ is the highest rating), showing that they have solid financial standings.

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Which are the Companies with the Best Ratings?

JD Power rates companies based purely on a company’s customer satisfaction ratings.

Now let’s see who is the cheapest car insurance company in Connecticut.

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Below, you will see JD Power’s rankings of insurance companies in Connecticut.

JD Power New England Region

State Farm and Allstate, some of the largest and cheapest car insurance companies in Connecticut, rank as better than most for customer satisfaction.

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Which are the Companies with Most Complaints in Connecticut?

We looked at the financial ratings of the largest companies in Connecticut, and now we want to take a look at the companies’ complaint ratios.

Company Total Complaints 2017Complaint Ratio
State Farm Group1,4820.44
Liberty Mutual Group2225.95
Allstate Insurance Group1630.5
Progressive Group1200.75
Metropolitan Group701.3
Amica Mutual Group520.46
Nationwide Corp Group250.28
Travelers Group20.09
Geico20
USAA Group20

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It is important to note that while a company may have a large number of complaints, it could still have a low complaint ratio. This is because if a company has a high number of customers, a thousand complaints may only make up a small number of total customers.

Which are the Cheapest Companies in Connecticut?

We know that price is a large part of picking out an insurance company. That’s why we’ve included a list of the cheapest providers in Connecticut.

CompanyAverage Annual RateCompared to State Average (+/-)Compared to State Average (%)
Safeco Ins Co of IL$7,282.87$2,663.9536.58%
Travelers Home & Marine Ins Co$6,004.29$1,385.3723.07%
Allstate F&C$5,831.60$1,212.6820.79%
Progressive Casualty$4,920.35$301.436.13%
Nationwide Discover Agency$3,672.34-$946.58-25.78%
USAA CIC$3,190.00-$1,428.92-44.79%
Geico General$3,073.66-$1,545.26-50.27%
State Farm Mutual Auto$2,976.24-$1,642.68-55.19%

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Geico and State Farm are both about 50 percent CHEAPER than the national average. That’s quite a big difference in cost!

Does Commute Affect Car Insurance Rates?

Did you know that some companies charge more based on how far you drive? Your commute distance can have an impact on your auto insurance rates. Usually, about $100 is added to your annual costs.

Six major factors affect auto insurance rates in CT. Which car insurance factors will affect your rates the most? Find out below:

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Some companies don’t change rates based on commute distance, though, so you may want to check out the complete list below.

GroupCommute and Annual MileageAnnual Average
Liberty Mutual10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$7,282.87
Liberty Mutual25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$7,282.87
Travelers10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$6,004.29
Travelers25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$6,004.29
Allstate10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$5,831.60
Allstate25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$5,831.60
Progressive10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$4,920.35
Progressive25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$4,920.35
Nationwide10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$3,672.34
Nationwide25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,672.34
USAA25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,228.20
USAA10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$3,151.80
Geico25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,120.67
State Farm25 miles commute. 12000 annual mileage.$3,049.73
Geico10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$3,026.65
State Farm10 miles commute. 6000 annual mileage.$2,902.75

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What are the Coverage Level Rates?

Most people are reluctant to purchase higher levels of coverage because of the added cost. At some companies, though, the price increase is affordable.

GroupCoverage TypeAnnual Average
Liberty MutualHigh$7,625.34
Liberty MutualMedium$7,227.27
Liberty MutualLow$6,996.02
TravelersHigh$6,499.29
AllstateHigh$6,172.41
TravelersMedium$5,961.96
AllstateMedium$5,823.32
TravelersLow$5,551.63
AllstateLow$5,499.08
ProgressiveHigh$5,318.35
ProgressiveMedium$4,875.19
ProgressiveLow$4,567.50
NationwideLow$3,727.81
NationwideMedium$3,699.88
NationwideHigh$3,589.35
USAAHigh$3,396.11
GeicoHigh$3,347.61
USAAMedium$3,193.11
State FarmHigh$3,157.66
GeicoMedium$3,033.89
State FarmMedium$2,981.27
USAALow$2,980.78
GeicoLow$2,839.48
State FarmLow$2,789.79

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At Geico, an increase from low to high coverage is an extra $508. This may seem pricy, but $508 only adds an extra $42 a month to your bill, which isn’t bad! Other companies have similar rate changes, so make sure to look around for one that best fits your budget.

A high coverage level will pay for itself in an accident, as it will protect you from having to pay a pricy bill yourself that is MUCH higher than an extra $42 a month!

Does Credit History Affect Car Insurance Rates?

Credit history is a large part of the insurance rate determination process. The worse your credit score is, the higher your rates.

The good news is that Connecticut’s average credit score is 690, which is above the national average of 675!

This means Connecticut residents who meet the average credit score have a better chance of receiving decent rates. The table below shows how good credit can result in SIGNIFICANTLY lower rates.

GroupCredit HistoryAnnual Average
Liberty MutualPoor$10,341.99
AllstatePoor$7,423.44
TravelersPoor$6,815.35
Liberty MutualFair$6,442.61
TravelersFair$5,680.08
AllstateFair$5,615.43
TravelersGood$5,517.46
ProgressivePoor$5,354.50
Liberty MutualGood$5,064.02
NationwidePoor$4,862.94
ProgressiveFair$4,804.53
ProgressiveGood$4,602.01
GeicoPoor$4,471.11
AllstateGood$4,455.94
USAAPoor$4,216.70
State FarmPoor$4,142.03
NationwideFair$3,264.41
NationwideGood$2,889.69
USAAFair$2,847.51
GeicoFair$2,696.58
State FarmFair$2,652.13
USAAGood$2,505.79
State FarmGood$2,134.56
GeicoGood$2,053.29

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At Liberty Mutual, having a good credit score will save you over five thousand dollars!

Does Your Driving Record Affect Car Insurance Rates?

DUIs and accidents are the most detrimental to rates, but speeding violations can also raise your rates.

GroupDriving RecordAnnual Average
Liberty MutualWith 1 accident$7,985.83
Liberty MutualWith 1 DUI$7,908.84
TravelersWith 1 DUI$7,620.42
AllstateWith 1 DUI$7,267.10
Liberty MutualWith 1 speeding violation$6,859.28
Liberty MutualClean record$6,377.55
TravelersWith 1 speeding violation$6,327.84
AllstateWith 1 accident$6,130.79
ProgressiveWith 1 accident$6,093.37
GeicoWith 1 DUI$5,420.88
TravelersWith 1 accident$5,235.67
ProgressiveWith 1 speeding violation$4,975.08
AllstateClean record$4,964.26
AllstateWith 1 speeding violation$4,964.26
TravelersClean record$4,833.25
USAAWith 1 DUI$4,713.93
NationwideWith 1 DUI$4,466.56
ProgressiveWith 1 DUI$4,415.90
ProgressiveClean record$4,197.03
NationwideWith 1 accident$3,900.02
NationwideWith 1 speeding violation$3,331.67
USAAWith 1 accident$3,104.24
State FarmWith 1 DUI$3,044.79
State FarmWith 1 accident$3,044.79
State FarmWith 1 speeding violation$3,044.79
NationwideClean record$2,991.13
State FarmClean record$2,770.61
GeicoWith 1 accident$2,546.81
USAAClean record$2,470.92
USAAWith 1 speeding violation$2,470.92
GeicoWith 1 speeding violation$2,384.75
GeicoClean record$1,942.20

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The best way to avoid paying hundreds or thousands more each year is to try and keep as clean a driving record as possible!

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What’s the Number of Insurers in Connecticut?

The following information shows the number of insurers in Connecticut.

  • Domestic Insurers: 67
  • Foreign Insurers: 729
  • Total Insurers: 796

With a total of 796 insurers, there are a lot of insurers to choose from! You might be wondering, though, what the difference is between domestic and foreign insurers.

Basically, domestic insurers are formed under Connecticut’s laws and can sell insurance only in Connecticut. Foreign insurers are formed under another state’s laws and can sell in different states.

What are the Connecticut State Laws?

With so many states passing their own laws, it can be overwhelming to move to Connecticut and have to learn new laws. Even if you live in Connecticut, it can still be confusing to learn everything you need to.

Breaking the law will likely result in fines and other penalties, which is why knowing driving laws are so important.

To help you avoid tickets (or worse), we’ve put together a section on important state information. From insurance laws to rules of the road, it is all covered here!

So keep reading to save yourself the headache of sifting through pages of information or paying expensive driving tickets.

What are the Car Insurance Laws?

There are multiple laws about car insurance beyond having a minimum liability amount, which is we’ve covered everything from state legislation to low-cost insurance.

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How State Laws for Insurance are Determined?

Every state has a different insurance policy filing process. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) says that Connecticut insurers must file rates and forms with Connecticut’s state insurance provider before use.

This means that before you can start driving on your new insurance, the state needs to make sure the policy meets the minimum liability insurance requirements before approving it.

How to Get Windshield Coverage

Cracked or broken windshield? In Connecticut, there is a full glass coverage option that covers the cost of repair/replacement costs with no deductible.

You can choose what shop to have your car repaired at, but if it is not on your insurer’s approved list you may have to pay the cost difference.

Connecticut also allows insurers to use aftermarket and used parts. The insurer is legally required to inform you if it is using aftermarket/used parts.

How to Get High-Risk Insurance

In Connecticut, the state doesn’t require drivers to fill out an SR-22 form to purchase high-risk insurance. This doesn’t mean that accidents and other mishaps won’t raise your rates!

While you won’t need to purchase high-risk insurance with an SR-22 form, your insurer may still consider you a high-risk driver for the following reasons and charge you accordingly.

  • Serious violations (DUI, reckless driving, etc.)
  • Accidents that cause injury or property damage
  • A bad driving record (consistent violations)
  • New and inexperienced drivers
  • High-risk vehicle owners (such as an exotic car or sports car)
  • A lapse in car insurance
  • Over 70 years of age

If you meet any of the criteria above, your insurer may charge you more for a coverage plan. Some insurers may actually refuse to cover you, in which case you have two insurance options.

  • Apply to a company with non-standard insurance programs.
  • Apply to the Connecticut Automobile Insurance Assigned Risk Plan.

The DMV recommends applying first to a non-standard insurer, as it is less expensive than Connecticut’s risk plan option. If a non-standard insurer won’t cover you, though, Connecticut’s risk plan will provide you with insurance.

Anyone who applies for car insurance through Connecticut’s risk plan is guaranteed car insurance because insurers are not allowed to turn away Connecticut risk plan applicants.

The downside is that your rates will be much HIGHER through a risk plan option than through a standard or non-standard plan.

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How to Get Low-Cost Insurance

Connecticut is NOT one of the three states that offer a government-sponsored program for low-income families. This doesn’t mean insurance is impossible to purchase for those on a budget!

Plenty of discounts are available through providers that make insurance more affordable. Most Connecticut providers will offer the following insurance discounts to customers.

  • Good driver discount
  • Good student discount (B+ average usually required)
  • Multi-car owner discount
  • Homeowners’ discount
  • Anti-theft device discount
  • Safety discount

These are just a few basic discounts most providers offer, so make sure to ask your provider for a complete discount list.

Is There an Automobile Insurance Fraud in Connecticut?

The Insurance Information Institute found that in 2007, over 4.8 billion was stolen in auto insurance fraud. Losses like this have made insurance fraud an object of concern, resulting in Connecticut creating a fraud bureau to track fraud.

Insurance fraud is a crime in Connecticut, and committing insurance fraud could result in jail time and/or fines.

Below are the two main ways to commit insurance fraud.

  1. Adding “extra” onto a claim. For example, you had a legitimate accident but then added in false expenses.
  2. Staging an accident (creating a false claim for something that never happened).

The easiest way to avoid being investigated for insurance fraud is to ALWAYS be honest on your claims.

Is There a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations places a time limit on how long you have to file and resolve your claim after an accident. Connecticut’s statute of limitations is below.

  • Personal Injury: two years
  • Property Damage: three years

The statute of limitations starts the day of your accident, so you will have two years to file for injury claims and three years to file for property damage claims.

Don’t wait! Years can pass quicker than one thinks, and it is always best to be paid for damages or injuries as soon as possible to lessen the strain on your bank account.

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Does Connecticut have Fair Claims Settlement Practices Act?

Connecticut does NOT have a fair claims settlement practices Act, which means you should always be aware of your policy benefits when filing a claim.

A fair claims settlement practice prevents insurers from leaving out policy benefits when disclosing information to clients. If you make a claim, your insurer may not provide you with all the benefits you are owed.

To make sure that benefits aren’t “forgotten” by your insurer, make sure to study your policy and be familiar with its contents.

What are the Vehicle Licensing Laws?

Do you know the proper steps for vehicle licensing? Having insurance and a driver’s license are necessary steps for driving in Connecticut. Keep reading to learn about Connecticut’s vehicle licensing process.

What are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance?

Driving without insurance is illegal. To discourage drivers from driving without insurance, Connecticut has the following penalties in place.

  • First Offense: Fine of $100-$1000 and suspended registration/license for one month ($175 reinstatement fee).
  • Second Offense: Fine of $100-$1000 and suspended registration/license for six months ($175 reinstatement fee).

If you recall, the following are accepted as proof of insurance.

  • A declaration page
  • Valid permanent insurance card

Proof of insurance must be provided at traffic stops, when registering your car, or when you are in an accident. If you fail to provide proof of insurance or don’t have insurance, Connecticut will suspend your car’s registration.

You will receive an intent to suspend registration letter, and in order to reinstate your registration you must do the following:

  • Pay uninsured motorist civil penalties for each insurance lapse
  • Provide proof of your insurance
  • Registration will be valid after authorities receive a receipt of uninsured motorist civil penalty payment and proof of insurance

The best way to avoid fines is to have insurance and carry proof of insurance on you at all times.

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What are the Teen Driver Laws?

Teens must be at least 16 years old to get a learner’s license (also known as a permit). Before getting a license or a restricted license, teens must meet the requirements listed below.

RequirementsDetails
Mandatory Holding Period6 months (4 months with driver education)
Minimum Supervised Driving Time 40 hours
Minimum Age16 years, 4 months

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If teens have a restricted license or learner’s license, they must obey the driving restrictions set by Connecticut.

Restricted License Requirements Details
Nighttime Restrictions 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Passenger Restrictions (family members excepted unless otherwise noted)First 6 months no passengers other than parents or a driving instructor. Second 6 months no passengers other than parents, driving instructor or members of the immediate family.
Minimum Age Restrictions can be Lifted Details
Nighttime Restrictions Until age 18 (minimum age 18)
Passenger Restrictions 12 months or until age 18, whichever occurs first (minimum age: 17 years, 4 months.)

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Passenger and nighttime restrictions are meant to keep teenagers safer on the roads by limiting distractions.

What are the License Renewal Procedures for Older Drivers?

Like younger drivers, older drivers also have special restrictions. Luckily, in Connecticut, the requirements for license renewals for older drivers aren’t that different from older drivers.

Check out the list below to see what older drivers need to renew their license.

  • Renewal Cycle — two years or six years for people 65 and older (personal option)
  • Proof of Adequate Vision — NOT required at renewal
  • Online or Mail Renewal — NOT permitted

Older drivers have the option of going to the DMV to renew their licenses every two years but may go every six years if they wish.

What’s the Procedure for New Residents?

If you are moving to Connecticut, you will need to have Connecticut’s minimum liability coverage. You will need to contact your provider to make sure you will have the correct amounts, as well as give them your new address to receive updated insurance cards.

As a reminder, here are the required bodily injury coverage and property damage coverage amounts.

  • $25,000 to cover injury costs of one person in an accident
  • $50,000 to cover injury costs of all people in an accident
  • $20,000 to cover property damages from an accident

You are also required to have uninsured and underinsured coverage, but you may choose to submit a form to your insurance provider rejecting this coverage.

Up next, we will share license renewal procedures, as getting a new license is another important step on a moving to-do list.

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What are the License Renewal Procedures?

If you are part of the general population (neither a teen or older driver), the license renewal procedures are as follows:

  • Renewal Cycle — six years
  • Proof of Adequate Vision — Required at first renewal only
  • Online or Mail Renewal — NOT permitted

The only exception to the mail renewal is if you are military personnel or a resident living outside the state. If so, you can renew your license by mail in Connecticut.

What’s Considered Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is whenever a person places themselves or others at risk through careless driving. To discourage reckless driving, Connecticut has the following penalties in place.

Offense Crime Classification Fines Jail Time License Suspension
First Class D Misdemeanor $100 to $300 Up to 30 days30 to 90 days
Second and Subsequent Class A Misdemeanor Maximum $600Up to 1 year Minimum 90 days

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If a driver was under the influence when receiving a reckless driving charge, it is possible to plea bargain the reckless driving down to a “wet reckless.” A wet reckless is a lesser charge, which means the driver could get out of some of the penalties above.

What are the Rules of the Road?

Every driver must know the rules of the road. If drivers don’t follow the rules, it can lead to accidents and fatalities. Keep reading to familiarize yourself with some of the most important rules of the road in Connecticut.

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Is Connecticut a Fault or No-Fault State?

Connecticut is an at-fault state. This means that the driver who caused the accident is liable for the costs of the accident.

These costs can include injury and property damage payments, which is why it is important to at least have the MINIMUM coverage required.

If you don’t have insurance and are at-fault, you will find that an accident will quickly deplete your funds!

What are the Seat Belt and Car Seat Laws?

Seat belts are a necessity. If you aren’t wearing one in an accident, you could be thrown from your car and have a higher risk of being killed. Connecticut has created the following seat belt law to keep Connecticut drivers as safe as possible.

All drivers and front-seat passengers MUST wear a seat belt.

Initial Effective Date Primary Enforcement Who is Covered? In What Seats? Maximum Fine 1st Offense
January 1, 1986Yes, effective since January 1, 19868+ years in front seat $50

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For smaller passengers, Connecticut has the following car seat laws. Make sure you are familiar with them, as the type of car seat you use is important in making sure children are safe.

Type of Child Seat Age and Weight Details
Rear-facing child restraint Younger than 2 years or less than 30 pounds
Forward or rear-facing child restraint 2-4 years or between 30-40 pounds
Forward or rear-facing child restraint or a booster seat secured with a lap and shoulder belt 5-7 years or between 40-60 pounds
Adult seat belt 8 through 15 years and 60+ pounds

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The fine for violating the car seat law is the same as violating the seat belt law — max $50.

Finally, Connecticut has restrictions placed on riding in a pickup truck bed. People may ride in the cargo area of pickup trucks ONLY if they meet the following criteria.

  • 16 and older
  • 15 and younger ONLY if belted
  • Farming operations
  • Hayrides in the months of August through December

These regulations are important, as people riding in the cargo area of a pickup always run the risk of being jostled about or thrown from the vehicle.

What are the Keep Right and Move Over Laws?

These laws are as simple as they sound! Here’s the keep right law: if you are driving slower than the average speed of traffic around you, keep to the right.

Here’s another rule — you are prohibited from passing on the right unless there are three or more lanes.

Just remember that the right lane is reserved for slower travelers, not passing, and you’ll be fine! Let’s move onto another important rule of the road, the move over law.

The move over law is one of the most important laws to follow. Sadly, not enough people do. Every year, hundreds of people are killed because of drivers who fail to move over!

So let’s take a closer look at what this law requires.

If you see a stationary vehicle with flashing lights, you must SLOW DOWN and MOVE OVER if possible.

These vehicles include police, emergency vehicles, tow trucks, garbage trucks, and any vehicle that has its flashing emergency lights on. Moving over a lane creates a safety cushion so that people aren’t hit while on the side of the road.

If you can’t move over, you need to SIGNIFICANTLY slow down and keep a close eye out for people moving around the vehicles.

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What’s the Speed Limit?

Speed limits make sure drivers aren’t barrelling down the road and posing a risk to both themselves and others. Connecticut created a speed limit law that outlines the MAXIMUM speeds allowed in Connecticut.

Rural InterstatesUrban InterstatesOther Limited Access Roads Other Roads
65 mph55 mph65 mph55 mph

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Bear in mind that these are the maximum speeds. If you are going 65 mph on a 30 mph road, you will still receive a ticket even though you didn’t go over the maximum speed for that road type.

How does Ridesharing Work?

If you want to work at a company like Uber or Lyft, you will need to purchase ridesharing insurance. The following insurance providers sell ridesharing insurance in Connecticut.

  • Geico
  • Liberty Mutual
  • State Farm

You will also need to meet basic requirements, such as the ones listed below.

  • Three years of driving experience
  • 21 years old or older
  • Clean driving record
  • Inspected and registered car

Every ridesharing company will have its own criteria, but you can expect to have to purchase ridesharing insurance, have driving experience, have a clean record, and have a safe car.

After all, people are getting into a car with you, so the company needs to know that you can drive and that your car is safe to operate!

What’s the Law for Automation on the Road?

Connecticut is one of the few states that has a law about automated vehicles. If you own an automated vehicle, you will need to follow the rules below.

What type of driving automation on public roads does the law/provision permit?Licensed Operator Required Operator Required to be in Vehicle Liability Insurance
Testing YesYesRequired, $5,000,000

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What are the Safety Laws?

With so many driving risks, Connecticut has laws in place that attempt to prevent drivers from making crucial mistakes. Impaired driving and distracted driving are all too common and often result in tragedy.

What are the DUI Laws?

Drunk driving claimed 120 lives in 2017 alone. Too many people misjudge their alcohol-content — thinking that one more drink won’t hurt or thinking that they have sobered up enough to drive.

So what is Connecticut’s DUI law? We’ve outlined the details below, but bear in mind this is just a general overview — we will get to the penalties for DUIs shortly.

BAC Limit High BAC LimitCriminal Status by Offense Formal Name for Offense Look Back/Washout Period
0.08NA1st misdemeanor
2+ within 10 years felony
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)10 years

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The lookback or washout period means that a DUI will stay on your record for ten years. If you recall, a bad driving record (DUIs, accidents, or speeding) will raise your rates astronomically.

If you need further incentive to never drive drunk, take a look at the penalties in the table below.

Number of Offense License Revocation Jail Time Fines IID Lock Other
1st 45 days Up to 6 months with mandatory 2 day minimum
OR
Up to six months suspension with probation requiring 100 hours community service
$500 to $1,0001 year NA
2nd 45 days Up to 2 years with mandatory minimum of 120 consecutive days and probation with 100 hours community service$1,000 to $4,0003 years1st year limited to travel to and from work, school and substance abuse treatment program, IID service center or probation appointment
3rd License revoked, but eligible for reinstatement after 2 years
Up to 3 years and mandatory minimum of one year and probation with 100 hours community service$2,000 to $8,000If reinstated license, must only drive IID vehicle (may be lifted after 15 years by DMV commissioner)NA

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Fourth offenses, and every offense after that, have the same penalties as the third offense. Basically, you will lose your right to drive altogether, as well as earning jail time and hefty fines!

What are the Marijuana-Impaired Driving Laws?

Connecticut does not have a specific law against marijuana-impaired driving, but anyone driving under the influence of marijuana can be charged with impaired driving.

Impaired driving in Connecticut carries many of the same penalties as drunk driving: fines, jail time, and license suspension.

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What are the Distracted Driving Laws?

Distracted driving is just as dangerous as driving impaired. All it takes is a second with your eyes off the road to crash. To help prevent this, Connecticut created the following cellphone use law.

Hand-Held Ban Young Drivers All Cellphone Ban Texting Ban Enforcement
All drivers Drivers younger than 18All drivers Primary

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Connecticut’s distracted driving law doesn’t just apply to texting and general phone use — there is a law that prohibits drivers from ALL distracting activities in the car.

These activities can range from brushing your hair to eating, but the basic rule is that if the activity makes you take your eyes off the road for even a second it IS a distracting activity!

What are Some Connecticut Can’t-Miss Facts?

Do you know what dangers to watch out for on the road? Every state has different risk factors. For example, Connecticut is a hotspot in the fall for whitetail deer!

According to the NHSA, collisions with deer result in over $1 billion in accident costs each year.

The State of Connecticut Insurance Department gives useful tips for avoiding deer collisions and what to do if you hit a deer.

To help you know what to keep an eye out for on Connecticut’s roads, we’ve covered all the major risk factors, from vehicle theft to crash stats. Let’s jump right into it!

Is There a Vehicle Theft in Connecticut?

The type of car you drive carries it’s own risk factors, such as how the car performs in collisions or on snowy roads. One risk factor that most people don’t consider, though, is the likelihood of their car being stolen.

If you have one of the vehicles below, be aware that it is one of the top ten stolen vehicles in Connecticut.

Vehicle Make and Model Vehicle Year Total Thefts
Honda Accord1997534
Honda Civic1998532
Nissan Maxima1998184
Nissan Altima1997143
Toyota Camry2014131
Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee2000110
Toyota Corolla199999
Honda CR-V199892
Dodge Caravan200079
Acura TL200376

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The Honda brand is one of the most stolen vehicles in Connecticut, with three different models making the list. Up next, we have the FBI’s 2013 crime report on vehicle theft by cities.

CityMotor
Vehicle
Theft
Ansonia50
Avon6
Berlin11
Bethel6
Bloomfield22
Branford40
Bridgeport663
Bristol127
Brookfield5
Canton1
Cheshire10
Clinton0
Coventry6
Cromwell4
Danbury64
Darien2
Derby25
East Hampton3
East Hartford120
East Haven101
Easton1
East Windsor9
Enfield25
Fairfield39
Farmington20
Glastonbury7
Granby2
Greenwich42
Groton4
Groton Long Point0
Groton Town18
Guilford7
Hamden77
Hartford639
Madison0
Manchester53
Meriden146
Middlebury5
Middletown74
Milford105
Monroe9
Naugatuck60
New Britain236
New Canaan5
New Haven753
Newington34
New London61
New Milford13
Newtown4
North Branford12
North Haven33
Norwalk106
Norwich52
Old Saybrook3
Orange14
Plainfield16
Plainville16
Plymouth14
Portland5
Putnam7
Redding0
Ridgefield0
Rocky Hill15
Seymour17
Shelton40
Simsbury6
Southington42
South Windsor10
Stamford149
Stonington8
Stratford136
Suffield6
Thomaston5
Torrington34
Trumbull31
Vernon16
Wallingford27
Waterbury689
Waterford7
Watertown43
West Hartford83
West Haven243
Weston0
Westport11
Wethersfield28
Willimantic52
Wilton6
Winchester6
Windsor18
Windsor Locks11
Wolcott34
Woodbridge17

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Bridgeport, Hartford, New Haven, and Waterbury are the worst cities for vehicle theft, with over 600 vehicles stolen from each city in 2013.

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What are the Dangers on the Road in Connecticut?

To help you keep a wary eye out, we’ve covered the major dangers on Connecticut’s roads. Keep reading to learn about Connecticut’s fatality rates by weather condition, person type, and much more.

What’s the Number of Fatal Crashes by Weather Condition and Light Condition?

Every teen driver learns about the dangers of hydroplaning and driving on icy roads, but this knowledge doesn’t always make it easier to navigate dangerous conditions. Each year, weather conditions cause fatal crashes in Connecticut.

Weather ConditionDaylightDark, but LightedDarkDawn or DuskOther / UnknownTotal
Normal1068032110229
Rain13361124
Snow/Sleet020002
Other220004
Unknown010001
TOTAL1218838121260

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While most fatalities happen during normal weather, rain is a contributor to fatalities in Connecticut.

What’s the Number of Traffic Fatalities?

The type of roadway often plays a role in traffic fatalities. Typically, more deaths occur on rural than urban roadways.

Road Type 2008200920102011201220132014201520162017
Rural553662387713060463744
Urban247188258183186156188221261232
Unknown0000100362
Total 302224320221264286248270304278

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Unfortunately, the fatality rate has had small increases over the years.

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What’s the Number of Fatalities by Person Type?

In this report, person type does not mean a driver’s personality! Person type looks at the type of vehicle driven and occupant versus pedestrian fatalities.

Person Type 20132014201520162017
Passenger Car131109108118117
Light Truck - Pickup137161117
Light Truck - Utility3718273625
Light Truck - Van42492
Light Truck - Other20001
Large Truck24874
Bus00112
Other/Unknown Occupants02212
Total Motorcyclists5755555257
Pedestrian3747465948
Bicyclist and Other Cyclist34363
Other/Unknown Nonoccupants00040
Overall Total286248270304278

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If you are a pedestrian or cyclist, make sure to keep one eye on the road because you can’t always trust drivers to avoid you!

What’s the Number of Fatalities by Crash Type?

The type of crash can have a significant impact on fatalities. A rollover is significantly more deadly than a light fender bender.

Crash Type20132014201520162017
- (1) Single Vehicle176157162187161
- (2) Involving a Large Truck2021373023
- (3) Involving Speeding7669778288
- (4) Involving a Rollover4135413938
- (5) Involving a Roadway Departure165145147164144
- (6) Involving an Intersection (or Intersection Related)7851546571
Total Fatalities (All Crashes)286248270304278

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Up next, we will take a look at county fatality rates.

Five-Year Trend for the Top 10 Counties

Below, you will see the data for the top 10 worst counties in Connecticut for traffic fatalities.

County 20132014201520162017
New Haven County6352658275
Hartford County7956636060
Fairfield County5047357359
New London County2931292728
Litchfield County1916221620
Windham County1215181614
Tolland County1718171212
Middlesex County1713211810
Top Ten Counties Total 286248270304278
All Counties Total 286248270304278

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What’s the Number of Fatalities Involving Speeding by County?

Speeding contributes to fatalities every year, as higher speeds mean greater impacts.

County 20132014201520162017
Fairfield County1715132022
Hartford County1525161825
Litchfield County54335
Middlesex County51620
New Haven County2511212820
New London County4710510
Tolland County33444
Windham County23422

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Above, you will see the fatality rates for the different counties in Connecticut. New Haven, Hartford, and Fairfield counties have the highest fatality numbers throughout the years.

What’s the Number of Fatalities in Crashes Involving an Alcohol-Impaired Driver (BAC=0.08+) by County?

Another cause of fatalities is drunk driving. Below, the fatality rates demonstrate why drunk driving is such a significant problem.

County 20132014201520162017
Fairfield County2117172428
Hartford County3525172727
Litchfield County10512510
Middlesex County102785
New Haven County2919213429
New London County915131112
Tolland County108854
Windham County36546

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Drinking impairs drivers’ judgment, which is why the chance of an accident and fatality increases with every drink!

What’s the Rating for Teen Drinking and Driving?

Sadly, despite the enormous risks, many teens participate in drinking and driving. Nationally, an average of 1.2 teens per 100,000 population are killed every year because of underage drinking and driving.

In Connecticut, this average is slightly better. Per 100,000 people, 0.9 deaths occur due to underage drinking and driving.

While Connecticut’s average is lower than most, any number above zero means underage drunk driving is still an issue. To see how Connecticut is handling underage drinking and driving, we’ve included Connecticut’s arrest record.

DUI Arrest (Under 18)DUI Arrests (Under 18) Per 100,000 People Rank
4154.4335

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Connecticut ranks 35th for its number of underage drunk driving arrests. This means Connecticut is not arresting a high number of teens. But since Connecticut also has a lower fatality rate, it seems Connecticut is doing a decent job of managing underage drunk driving.

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What’s the EMS Response Time?

Since we’ve covered numerous different contributors to fatalities, we want to give you some peace of mind if you are in an accident. Below, you will see the EMS response times for Connecticut.

Road Type Time of Crash to EMS Notification EMS Notification to EMS Arrival EMS Arrival at Scene to Hospital Arrival Time of Crash to Hospital Arrival Total Fatal Crashes
Urban 2.27 minutes6.44 minutes26.61 minutes34.55 minutes249
Rural 2.17 minutes9.47 minutes39.67 minutes48.60 minutes37

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In both rural and urban settings, it takes under an hour from the time of the call to arrive at the hospital. So rest easy that if you are in an accident, you will be at the hospital as quickly as possible.

What’s the Transportation in Connecticut like?

Transportation is a vital part of our day. We use transportation to get to work, to the grocery store, to meet friends, and much more. In Connecticut, the most common method of transportation is owning a car.

Data USA - Bar Chart of Car Ownership in Connecticut

Owning two cars is by far the most popular option, with ownership of one or three cars the next most popular choices.

What’s the Commute Time?

Commuting to work is a necessary part of most people’s day. Connecticut’s average commute time of 24.9 minutes is just slightly under the national average of 25.3 minutes.

Data USA - Bar Chart of Commute Time in Connecticut

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Is there a Commuter Transportation?

How do you get to work each day? While driving alone is the most common method, people also carpool, work from home or use public transportation in Connecticut.

Data USA - Bar Chart of Commuter Transportation in Connecticut

What are the Top Two Cities for Traffic Congestion?

Two of Connecticut’s cities ranked on TomTom’s list of most congested cities worldwide. If you are planning on driving through either of the two cities below, make sure to allow extra time for traffic.

City World Rank Congestion Level Morning Peak Evening Peak
New Haven 14719%23%45%
Hartford 16716%26%42%

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Now that we’ve covered everything from traffic to car insurance, you are prepared to start driving in Connecticut. Want to start comparing rates today? Enter your zip code in our FREE online tool below to get started!

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State Minimum Car Insurance Rates Nationwide
Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates by State
Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates by Age & Gender in Connecticut
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Connecticut Car Insurance Rates by Company vs. State Average
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in Connecticut
State Minimum Car Insurance Rates Nationwide
Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates by State
Average Monthly Car Insurance Rates by Age & Gender in Connecticut
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Connecticut Car Insurers by Market Share %
Connecticut Car Insurance Rates by Company vs. State Average
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in Connecticut