Best Auto Insurance for First Responders in 2024 (Our Top 10 Picks)
Geico, USAA, and State Farm are the three companies with the best auto insurance for first responders. USAA has the cheapest first responder car insurance at $22/mo, but Geico has the biggest discounts for firefighters at 25%. Certified first responders include paramedics, firefighters, and EMTs.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Nov 1, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our 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 auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Nov 1, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our 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.
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Full Coverage for First Responders
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17,759 reviewsGeico, USAA, and State Farm are our top choices for the best auto insurance for first responders because they offer customizable coverage options, low rates, and first responder discounts.
Geico makes figuring out how to get a first responder auto insurance discount easy with its powerful online tools. You can also save with other Geico discounts and by signing up for its UBI program DriveEasy.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Auto Insurance for First Responders
| Company | Rank | First Responder Discount | UBI Discount | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | 24% | 25% | Federal Employees | Geico |
 | #2 | 19% | 23% | Military Members | USAA |
 | #3 | 16% | 22% | Competitive Rates | State Farm |
 | #4 | 15% | 25% | UBI Programs | Allstate |
 | #5 | 17% | 20% | Tight Budgets | Progressive |
 | #6 | 22% | 23% | Law Enforcement | Liberty Mutual |
 | #7 | 15% | 22% | Deductible Savings | Nationwide |
 | #8 | 19% | 21% | Discount Options | Farmers |
 | #9 | 15% | 25% | EMS Workers | American Family |
 | #10 | 17% | 20% | Roadside Assistance | AAA |
Explore your options for the best affordable auto insurance for first responder employees below. Then, enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool to see which companies have the cheapest rates in your area.
- Most major insurance companies offer a 10% first responder discount
- First responders are considered low-risk drivers, so their rates tend to be low
- Geico, USAA, and State Farm offer the best auto insurance for first responders
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#1 – Geico: Top Pick Overall
Pros
- First Responder Discount: First responders can take advantage of Geico’s affiliation discount. Geico also offers the best auto insurance for federal employees partially because of its discounts, which some first responders qualify for.
- Competitive Rates: Aside from the Geico first responder discount, you’ll also find competitive rates. Geico is often one of the cheapest options for car insurance in most states.
- Unique Coverage Options: Geico offers plenty of ways to increase the coverage in your policy, including mechanical breakdown insurance.
Cons
- Rates Are Higher for Some Drivers: Although Geico usually offers cheap rates, drivers who need high-risk auto insurance will probably find lower rates elsewhere.
- Mixed Reviews: Geico has plenty of satisfied customers, but it also gets a number of complaints regarding its claims resolution process.
#2 – USAA: Best for Military Families
Pros
- Lowest Rates: No matter where you live, USAA is almost always the cheapest option for car insurance.
- Specialized Coverage: USAA auto insurance for first responders has a variety of coverage and discount options. Read our USAA auto insurance review to learn more.
- Military Discounts: USAA offers specifically designed military discounts to help members save.
Cons
- Eligibility Requirements: Although it offers cheap coverage for first responders’ dependents, you’ll need to qualify for membership to purchase USAA insurance. Only former and active military members are eligible for membership.
- No Gap Insurance: USAA’s selection of coverage options is a little smaller than larger providers. It lacks popular coverage options like gap insurance.
#3 – State Farm: Best for Personalized Service
Pros
- Discounts for First Responders: Take advantage of the State Farm first responder discount to save. Read our State Farm auto insurance review to see more discount options.
- Extensive Network of Agents: State Farm has an extensive network of local representatives offering help whenever you need it.
- Roadside Assistance Plan: Many drivers add roadside assistance to their plan when they want the best auto insurance for emergency service workers (EMS) and other first responders. State Farm offers excellent roadside coverage at a low price.
Cons
- Some Drivers Pay More: Drivers with low credit scores often see higher rates from State Farm.
- Lacking Online Options: You’ll need to speak with a representative to purchase a State Farm policy.
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#4 – Allstate: Best for Full Coverage Policies
Pros
- Drivewise and Milewise: Allstate offers two usage-based insurance programs: Drivewise and Milewise. Drivewise offers a discount for safe driving habits, while Milewise is designed for low-mileage drivers.
- First Responder Discounts: One of the ways Allstate offers affordable auto insurance for first responder employees is with discounts. Read our Allstate auto insurance review to see your discount options.
- Ample Coverage Options: Allstate offers a variety of coverage options, including rental car reimbursement and sound system coverage.
Cons
- Higher Average Rates: Allstate might have affordable rates for certified first responders, but it often has higher average prices than other companies.
- Below-Average Reviews: Despite having excellent coverage options, Allstate struggles with its customer reviews.
#5 – Progressive: Best for First Responders on a Budget
Pros
- Competitive Rates: Progressive usually offers affordable rates no matter what type of driver you are. Explore how much you might pay in our Progressive auto insurance review.
- Name Your Price Tool: Getting auto insurance discounts isn’t the only way to stay on a budget. Use Progressive’s Name Your Price tool to see coverage options that meet your budget.
- First Responder Insurance Discounts: You may qualify for a Progressive first responder discount. Check with a representative to see if you meet first responder eligibility for this discount, as availability varies by state.
Cons
- Limited Local Agents: Progressive focuses on its online options, so there are fewer local representatives to speak with.
- Claims Satisfaction Ratings: Progressive struggles with its customer service ratings, which also impacts how many drivers renew their Progressive policy.
#6 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Law Enforcement
Pros
- Discounts for First Responders: Wondering how to get a police auto insurance discount? Liberty Mutual offers a law enforcement discount along with 17 other options.
- Customizable Policies: Another reason Liberty Mutual has the best auto insurance for law enforcement is its ample policy customization options.
- 24/7 Claims Assistance: Liberty Mutual representatives are always available online or over the phone if you need help with a claim.
Cons
- Average Rates: Liberty Mutual isn’t the most expensive option for car insurance, but it’s also not the cheapest.
- Claims Processing Reviews: Many customers complain that Liberty Mutual’s claims process is lacking. Read more customer reviews in our Liberty Mutual auto insurance review.
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#7 – Nationwide: Best for Vanishing Deductibles
Pros
- Vanishing Deductible Program: Sign up for Nationwide’s Vanishing Deductible program to have your deductible reduced by up to $500.
- First Responder Auto Insurance Discount: Save on first responder auto insurance costs by taking advantage of this Nationwide discount.
- Ample Coverage Options: Nationwide offers a variety of coverage options to meet nearly every need, like gap insurance and pet injury coverage.
Cons
- Not Available Everywhere: Nationwide is only sold in 47 states. Learn if you can buy Nationwide coverage in your state in our Nationwide auto insurance review.
- Limited Online Tools: Nationwide prefers to sell policies through in-person agents, so it lacks some of the online tools other companies offer.
#8 – Farmers Insurance: Best for Discount Options
Pros
- Discount Options: Farmers has some of the best auto insurance for firefighters because it offers a discount of about 10%. Aside from auto insurance discounts for firefighters, Farmers offers 23 discount options.
- Flexible Coverage: Customize your Farmers policy with add-ons like personal umbrella coverage and roadside assistance. Explore all add-on options in our Farmers auto insurance review.
- Signal App: Save up to 30% on your insurance by downloading Farmers’ Signal app and enrolling in the UBI program.
Cons
- Higher Than Average Rates: While it’s certainly not the most expensive option, Famers rarely offers the cheapest first responder car insurance rates.
- Limited Availability: As of 2023, Farmers no longer sells new car insurance policies in Florida.
#9 – American Family: Best for EMS Workers
Pros
- Dedicated Agents: American Family has representatives ready to help, whether you’re looking for car insurance for law enforcement officers, paramedics, or other first responders.
- First Responder Discounts: When you’re figuring out how to get an EMS auto insurance discount, American Family has you covered. It offers an EMT discount among its 18 discount options.
- Costco Insurance: Costco members can get affordable coverage through the warehouse, which is underwritten by American Family.
Cons
- Not Sold in All States: American Family sells car insurance in just 19 states. To see if your state is one of them, read our American Family auto insurance review.
- Rates Can Be High: American Family rates tend to be a bit higher on average than many of its competitors.
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#10 – AAA: Best for Roadside Assistance Plans
Pros
- Roadside Assistance: AAA is best known for its roadside assistance plans, which cover emergency situations like dead batteries, empty fuel tanks, and flat tires. Explore AAA’s roadside assistance plans in our AAA auto insurance review.
- Discount Options: Lower your car insurance costs by taking advantage of AAA’s 17 discount options.
- Coverage Selection: AAA offers plenty of ways to customize your insurance, like its OEM exterior repair coverage.
Cons
- Membership Is Required: Only AAA members are eligible to sign up for car insurance, which comes with a yearly fee.
- Coverage Varies by Location: AAA is run by local clubs, so discount and coverage options can vary by location.
Comparing First Responder Auto Insurance Costs
Most insurance companies offer a discount for first responders. Check below to see how much you might save based on your career.
First Responder Auto Insurance Monthly Rates & Discounts
| Occupation | Rate | Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medical Technician | $150 | 10% |
| Firefighter | $160 | 15% |
| Law Enforcement | $170 | 12% |
| Paramedic | $155 | 14% |
To get a better idea of how much you might pay for coverage, check the average rates for minimum and full coverage for first responders from our top auto insurance companies.
Auto Insurance for First Responders: Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider
| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| AAA | $32 | $86 |
| Allstate | $61 | $160 |
| American Family | $44 | $117 |
| Farmers | $53 | $139 |
| Geico | $30 | $80 |
| Liberty Mutual | $68 | $174 |
| Nationwide | $44 | $115 |
| Progressive | $39 | $105 |
| State Farm | $33 | $86 |
| USAA | $22 | $59 |
First responder auto insurance rates tend to be a little lower than the national average. However, not all first responders qualify for a discount, which may increase the quotes you’ll see. Learn more in our article: Factors That Affect Auto Insurance Rates.
Who Qualifies For First Responder Discounts
Finding a company that offers a first responder discount is relatively easy, but not everyone qualifies.
If you don't qualify for a first responder discount, that doesn't mean you can't save. You might be eligible for other discounts, like savings for being a good driver, bundling policies, paying in full, and staying claims-free.Laura Berry Former Licensed Insurance Producer
Insurance companies offer a first responder discount for these specific careers:
- Firefighters and volunteer firefighters
- Police officers
- Government and federal law enforcement
- EMTs and paramedics
You’ll likely qualify for a first responder discount if you work in one of these careers. If you’re not sure, a representative can clarify your eligibility. You can also read more in our article: How to Get a Federal Employee Auto Insurance Discount.
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How Much Auto Insurance First Responders Need
The amount of insurance you need depends on a variety of factors, including what type of vehicle you drive and your budget.
As you saw above, minimum insurance is your cheapest option for coverage. The minimum amount of coverage you can purchase depends on your state’s laws, but the most commonly required is liability insurance. Minimum insurance is a good option for drivers who own less expensive vehicles or who can afford to replace their cars outright (learn more: Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements by State).
Although it’s cheap, minimum insurance usually doesn’t protect your vehicle. If you have a newer, more valuable car or you can’t afford to replace it, full coverage is a better insurance option. It’s never required by law, but it offers your vehicle much better protection.
You only need commercial auto insurance if you own a vehicle used for work. For example, paramedics don't need commercial auto insurance unless they own the ambulance they work in and use it for business purposes.Ty Stewart Licensed Insurance Agent
The amount of insurance you need depends on your unique circumstances, but the good news is that you probably don’t need commercial auto insurance as a first responder, which helps keep costs down.
How to Save Money on Auto Insurance for First Responders
Aside from finding a first responder discount, you can save on your insurance with the following tips:
- Keep your driving record clean (read more: Cheap Auto Insurance for a Bad Driving Record).
- Take advantage of other discounts.
- Compare car insurance quotes to find the lowest prices.
- Purchase only what you need.
- Select a higher deductible.
An insurance representative can also help you save by looking over your policy and making suggestions. However, the most important way to keep your insurance rates low is to compare rates with as many companies as possible.
Where to Buy The Best Auto Insurance for First Responders
The best auto insurance for first responders depends on your needs, but Geico, USAA, and State Farm are usually your best options. Learn more in our article if you’re debating between Geico and State Farm: Geico vs. State Farm Auto Insurance.
However, you can use our top 10 choices for the best auto insurance for first responders listed above to get an idea of where to start looking. You can also enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool to start comparing rates now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is classified as a first responder?
A first responder is classified as an EMT or paramedic, federal law enforcement, full-time or volunteer firefighter, or police officer. If you’re unsure about your status as a first responder, an insurance representative can help.
What is a first responder insurance discount?
This discount offers savings to anyone who works in a qualified first responder position. Discounts vary by company, but most providers offer savings of about 10% for first responders.
Who has the best first responder discounts for auto insurance?
Discount amounts vary from state to state, but Geico and Progressive offer some of the highest savings for first responders, sometimes reaching up to 25% off. Read more in our article: Geico vs. Progressive Auto Insurance Review.
How do you prove you are a first responder for auto insurance?
It depends on the company you shop with, but most accept a copy of your most recent pay stub.
Does occupation affect auto insurance rates?
Your occupation plays a small role in your insurance rates. First responders statistically drive safer than the average driver, so they tend to see slightly lower rates.
Can first responders buy USAA auto insurance?
First responders need to qualify for USAA membership before they can purchase a policy. Only active and retired military members and their families are eligible for USAA membership (learn more: Best Auto Insurance for Military Families and Veterans).
Does Nationwide do a first responder discount on auto insurance?
Yes, first responders can earn up to 10% off their Nationwide policy with this discount. Make sure to check with a representative, as availability varies by state.
How can first responders get cheaper auto insurance rates?
Aside from getting a discount, first responders can save by finding other discounts and choosing the right coverage. Enter your ZIP code to compare quotes with multiple companies.
Do you need special auto insurance if you’re a first responder?
Unless you own a business vehicle, first responders only need a standard auto insurance policy (read more: Best Business Auto Insurance). If you own a vehicle used in first responder work, you’ll need commercial auto insurance.
Is USAA auto insurance only for veterans?
Active duty military members are also eligible for USAA auto insurance, as are their spouses and children.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.