We've put together a few tips that can help you get the best rates possible. Take a look to see how you can save money on insurance.

Check Insurance Rates Before Purchasing a Car

Insurance rates vary according to the make and model of the car. If you're trying to decide which vehicle to buy, research the cost of insurance for the cars you're considering. NerdWallet has put together a handy list of the cheapest vehicles to insure.

Shop Around

When you go to purchase car insurance, don't assume you know which company is the cheapest. The provider that has the best rates in one state or province may be the most expensive in another. Do your homework and make a decision based on the data you obtain.

You may first think of major insurance companies like Allstate, Geico, Progressive, or State Farm. However, be sure not to leave out the smaller local or regional companies that exist in your area. They may also have competitive rates and are known for having better customer service.

Ask About Discounts

There are many possible discounts that insurance companies provide. For example, many offer discounts to people who:

- Have a good driving record
- Receive documents online instead of by mail
- Own cars that have specific security or anti-theft features
- Pay six months at a time
- Purchase other policies with them
- Are members of certain groups or organizations

Pay on Time

Your credit score significantly influences the auto quote values you receive. Thus, paying all your bills on time can make a big difference in your insurance rates.

Drop Collision and Comprehensive Coverage for Older Cars

If you own an older vehicle, you may not need all the coverage suggested for newer cars. In particular, you can probably go without collision coverage and comprehensive coverage.

Collision coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle when it strikes another object. If you're not very concerned about your car's appearance, this coverage may be unnecessary.

Comprehensive insurance covers damage from animal crashes, fire, floods, vandalism, and weather. It also protects you in case of theft. However, the maximum value it pays is the total value of your car, so it may not make sense to pay if your vehicle has a low resale value.

Check Your Options Today

Being a student doesn’t mean you need to break the bank to afford car insurance. By using these techniques, you should be able to find the best quote for you and your vehicle.