Eligible Californians can apply online for state's low-cost auto insurance program

SACRAMENTO – Beginning immediately, income-eligible Californians shopping for low-cost auto insurance can apply online for the state-sponsored California Low Cost Automobile Insurance Program.

"Many Californians are working more than one job, or juggle family responsibilities that make it hard to visit the office of an insurance agent or broker," said Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones. "In addition to visiting an agent or broker to apply, Californians can now apply online at mylowcostauto.com."

Consumers who successfully complete the eligibility quiz now have the choice of applying online or using the existing methods of a follow-up phone call from a local insurance agent or printing a list of insurance professionals in the area to contact.

The annual premiums in California vary by county, ranging from $241 to $556. There are discounts if the consumer is a licensed driver with a good driving record for three consecutive years.

Last year, a new law by Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) made it easier for newly-licensed drivers, including those with AB 60 licenses to qualify for this affordable coverage.

Applicants must have a valid California driver license, own a vehicle valued at $25,000 or less, and be at least 19 years old. Income eligibility requirements per household are $29,425 for one person and $60,625 for a family of four.

"We appreciate the hard work by our partners to bring this online application to consumers," said Jones.

The program does not offer comprehensive or collision coverage (coverage that will repair the driver's own vehicle after an accident) but this coverage can be purchased from an insurance agent.