Reviewed and Updated: May 2025
Author: Ryan Brady, Lead Insurance Writer
Editor: Ben Moore, Insurance Content Strategist
USAA stands out in the auto insurance landscape by offering exclusive, value-driven coverage to members of the U.S. military community, including active-duty personnel, veterans, and their families. With superior customer satisfaction scores, competitive pricing, and a strong financial reputation, USAA remains one of the most trusted names in the insurance industry.
Quick Overview: USAA Auto Insurance at a Glance
- Eligibility: Limited to military members, veterans, and eligible family members
- Average Full Coverage Cost: $1,463/year
- Customer Satisfaction: Above average
- NAIC Complaint Index: Fewer complaints than expected
- Digital Tools: Feature-rich website and mobile app
- SafePilot Program: Up to 30% discount for safe driving
Why USAA Is a Top Choice for Military Families
USAA is the fifth-largest auto insurer in the U.S., renowned for delivering a comprehensive suite of insurance, banking, and investment services. What sets it apart is its focus on the unique needs of military personnel. From tailored discounts to flexible policies, USAA is designed with service members in mind.
Note: USAA auto policies are available exclusively to active military, honorably discharged veterans, and their immediate families.
Side-by-Side Comparison: USAA vs Competitors
| Provider | Full Coverage | Minimum Coverage | Ease of Use | NAIC Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USAA | $1,463 | $377 | Above Average | Fewer than expected |
| Progressive | $2,133 | $639 | Above Average | Near expected |
| Liberty Mutual | $2,132 | $672 | Above Average | More than expected |
| GEICO | $1,991 | $492 | Excellent | Fewer than expected |
| State Farm | $2,318 | $545 | Excellent | Fewer than expected |
USAA consistently ranks as one of the most affordable providers, particularly for drivers who qualify for its exclusive eligibility.
USAA Auto Insurance Cost Analysis
According to May 2025 data from NerdWallet, the national average cost of full coverage auto insurance is $2,312. USAA’s average rate of $1,463 is significantly lower—making it a top contender for budget-conscious military families.
Example Premiums (Full Coverage):
| Company | Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,463 |
| Travelers | $1,754 |
| GEICO | $1,991 |
| Allstate | $2,954 |
| Farmers | $3,858 |
These quotes are based on a 35-year-old driver with a clean record and good credit. Actual rates may vary based on driving history, vehicle type, location, and more.
How USAA Rates Change with Driving Behavior
| Driver Profile | USAA Avg. Rate | National Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum coverage | $377 | $622 |
| Full coverage | $1,463 | $2,312 |
| One speeding ticket | $1,768 | $2,937 |
| One at-fault accident | $2,131 | $3,420 |
| DUI offense | $2,834 | $4,287 |
| Poor credit, clean record | $2,672 | $3,812 |
USAA maintains competitive rates even after incidents like a crash or DUI, and still beats the national averages in nearly every category.
Coverage Options with USAA
USAA provides a robust range of auto insurance coverage types, from mandatory liability coverage to optional protections for enhanced peace of mind. Some of the optional add-ons include:
- Accident Forgiveness: Prevents premium increases after your first at-fault accident (free in select states after five years of safe driving).
- Rideshare Coverage: Protects gig economy drivers during periods not covered by Uber or Lyft insurance.
- Car Replacement Assistance: Offers an extra 20% above your car’s actual cash value if your vehicle is totaled—only available if you have collision and comprehensive coverage.
Available Discounts to Maximize Savings
USAA members can unlock substantial savings through a range of discount programs. These vary by location and driver profile but commonly include:
- Safe driving (5+ years accident-free)
- Defensive driving course completion
- Good student recognition
- Anti-theft device installation
- Multi-vehicle or multi-policy bundling
- Garaging a vehicle on a military base
- Low annual mileage
- New vehicle insurance (car less than 3 years old)
- Continuous USAA membership
Drive Smart: Save with USAA SafePilot
USAA’s SafePilot program is a usage-based insurance option that rewards safe drivers with discounts of up to 30%. You’ll receive a 10% discount immediately upon enrollment. The app tracks behaviors such as hard braking, phone usage while driving, and driving frequency to assess risk and assign discounts.
Customer Feedback and Satisfaction
In a 2024 NerdWallet survey, USAA scored 80 out of 100 for overall customer satisfaction, surpassing the industry average of 79. Although USAA doesn’t appear in J.D. Power’s auto insurance rankings due to its eligibility restrictions, its customers consistently praise:
- Easy claims handling
- Transparency in coverage
- Fair pricing
- Reliable customer service
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners also reports that USAA receives fewer complaints than expected for a company its size.
USAA Digital Experience: Website & Mobile App
- Website: Intuitive and informative, offering resources for military financial planning, insurance FAQs, disaster preparedness, and more.
- Mobile App: Available on Android and iOS. Users can pay premiums, view digital ID cards, initiate roadside assistance, and file claims—all within the app.
Additional Insurance Products from USAA
Beyond auto insurance, USAA offers a suite of other financial protection products:
Property Insurance:
- Homeowners
- Renters
- Condo
- Landlord
Life & Health Insurance:
- Term life
- Permanent life
- Supplemental health
Specialty Insurance:
- Motorcycle/ATV
- RV & boat
- Classic car
- Pet
- Travel
- Special event
Through Third-Party Partners:
- Farm and ranch
- Mobile home
- Small business
Final Verdict: Is USAA Auto Insurance Worth It?
For those eligible, USAA auto insurance is one of the best values available in 2025. It delivers low rates, outstanding customer service, and coverage tailored to the needs of military families. Add to that an impressive list of discounts and tech-savvy features, and it’s clear why USAA continues to top the charts.
However, its exclusivity means that civilians will need to look elsewhere. If you qualify, though, few insurers can match the blend of affordability, features, and reliability that USAA offers.
FAQs About USAA Car Insurance
Q: Who qualifies for USAA auto insurance?
A: Active-duty military members, veterans, and eligible family members.
Q: Does USAA offer accident forgiveness?
A: Yes, in select states—often free after five years without an accident.
Q: Is the SafePilot program worth joining?
A: Yes. It offers up to 30% off for safe driving behavior and a 10% discount at sign-up.
Q: Can civilians buy USAA insurance?
A: No, USAA services are strictly limited to qualifying military personnel and their families.
