If you're someone who doesn't drive much, you could be missing out on significant savings. Low-mileage drivers often qualify for special discounts, but many insurance providers don’t advertise them outright. Whether you work from home, use public transportation, or simply prefer walking, knowing which discounts to ask for can slash your premiums.

Why Low Mileage Matters in Car Insurance

Insurance companies base premiums on risk—the less you drive, the lower your chances of an accident. If you’re logging fewer than 7,500 miles a year (the typical threshold for "low mileage"), insurers see you as a safer bet. But unless you explicitly ask, they might not adjust your rate accordingly.

The Rise of Remote Work & Reduced Commuting

Since the pandemic, remote work has become the norm for millions. Fewer daily commutes mean fewer miles driven—yet many drivers haven’t updated their policies to reflect this. If you’re still paying pre-2020 rates, you’re likely overpaying.

Hidden Discounts for Low-Mileage Drivers

1. Pay-Per-Mile Insurance

Some insurers, like Metromile or Milewise (Allstate), charge based on actual miles driven. A base rate covers the car while parked, and a per-mile fee applies when you drive. Ideal for those who rarely use their cars.

2. Low-Mileage Discounts

Traditional insurers like State Farm and Geico offer discounts if you drive under a certain threshold (usually 7,500–10,000 miles/year). You may need to verify mileage via an app or odometer reading.

3. Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) Programs

Programs like Progressive’s Snapshot or Nationwide’s SmartMiles track driving habits via telematics. Safe, low-mileage drivers often see discounts of 10–30%.

4. Garaging Discounts

If your car is parked in a secure garage most of the time (common for low-mileage drivers), some insurers offer additional savings.

5. Bundling with Home or Renters Insurance

Even if you drive little, bundling policies can unlock extra discounts. Companies reward loyalty—always ask.

How to Prove Low Mileage

• Odometer Readings: Submit photos or manual logs.
• Telematics Devices: Plug-in trackers or mobile apps.
• Commute Verification: A letter from your employer confirming remote work.

Eco-Friendly Perks for Low-Mileage Drivers

With climate change driving policy shifts, some insurers reward eco-conscious habits:

• Hybrid/Electric Car Discounts – If you drive a fuel-efficient vehicle sparingly, double-dip on savings.
• Carbon Offset Programs – Companies like Lemonade offer discounts for low-emission driving.

Watch Out for These Pitfalls

• Underestimating Mileage: If you exceed your reported miles, your insurer could deny claims.
• Inactivity Fees: Some pay-per-mile programs charge if you don’t drive at all for months.

Final Tip: Negotiate or Switch

Don’t assume your current insurer offers the best deal. Compare quotes annually—low-mileage discounts vary wildly. A 10-minute call could save you hundreds.

Now that you know the secrets, it’s time to ask: Are you getting the low-mileage discount you deserve?