Getting car insurance as a new driver in Florida can feel overwhelming — especially in Miami where rates are higher than almost anywhere else in the state. This guide covers everything first-time drivers need to know to get insured, stay legal, and avoid overpaying.
Car Insurance New Drivers Florida: What the Law Requires
Florida requires all registered vehicles to carry a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL). Florida is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance pays your medical bills after an accident regardless of who caused it.
These are the legal minimums — but for most new drivers in Miami, they aren’t enough. A single serious accident can generate costs well beyond $10,000. We always recommend new drivers consider additional coverage beyond the state minimum. Read our full guide on Florida car insurance requirements for a detailed breakdown.
What Types of Coverage Should a New Driver Get?
Liability Only
Covers damage you cause to other people and their property. Required by law in Florida but doesn’t protect your own vehicle.
Full Coverage
A combination of liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. If your car is financed or leased, your lender will require this. It costs more but protects your vehicle in accidents, theft, weather damage, and more.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Required in Florida. Covers 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of lost wages after an accident regardless of fault.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. This coverage protects you if you’re hit by someone who has no insurance — which happens more often in Miami than most places.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost for New Drivers in Florida?
New drivers typically pay more than experienced drivers because insurers consider them higher risk. In Miami, first-time drivers can expect to pay anywhere from $200–$400 per month depending on their age, vehicle, and coverage level.
The good news is that working with an independent agency like IMAX Insurance Group means we shop across multiple carriers to find you the most competitive rate for your specific situation — including carriers that specialize in new and high-risk drivers.
Can I Get Car Insurance as a New Driver With No Prior Insurance History?
Yes. Many carriers will cover you even if you’ve never had insurance before. At IMAX we work with carriers that cover:
- First-time drivers with no insurance history
- Drivers with a foreign license
- Drivers who recently moved to Florida from another state or country
- Drivers with a less-than-perfect driving record
This is especially relevant in Miami where a large portion of new drivers come from other countries or are getting insured for the first time.
Tips to Lower Your Rate as a New Driver in Florida
- Take a defensive driving course — many carriers offer a discount for completing an approved course
- Stay on a parent’s policy if possible — adding a new driver to an existing policy is usually cheaper than a separate policy
- Choose a practical vehicle — sports cars and newer vehicles cost more to insure
- Pay your premium in full — many carriers offer a discount for paying annually instead of monthly
- Ask about good student discounts — if you’re in school, you may qualify
How to File a Car Insurance Claim in Florida
If you’re in an accident, here’s what to do:
- Make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if needed
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver
- Document the scene with photos
- Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible — ideally within 24 hours
- Follow your agent’s instructions for the claims process
At IMAX our agents walk you through every step so you’re never dealing with a claim alone.
Ready to get insured? Get a free quote from IMAX Insurance Group and let our bilingual agents find the best rate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest car insurance for new drivers in Florida? The cheapest option depends on your specific profile. The best way to find it is to compare quotes across multiple carriers. At IMAX we do that for you at no cost.
Can a new driver get car insurance without a US license in Florida? Yes. Some carriers accept foreign driver’s licenses. IMAX works with carriers that cover international drivers and new Florida residents.
Is full coverage required for new drivers in Florida? Not by law, but if your car is financed your lender will require it. Even if your car is paid off, full coverage is worth considering as a new driver given the higher risk of accidents.
How long until my rates go down as a new driver? Generally rates start to decrease after 3 years of clean driving history. Staying accident and violation free is the fastest way to lower your premium over time.
Can I get car insurance in Florida the same day? Yes. At IMAX we can get you insured the same day in most cases. Call us at (786) 441-8985 or request a free quote online.
Updated April 2026. Originally published March 2023.
