My 25-year-old son has a clean record, so I tossed him the keys to the Bronco for a beach trip. He tapped a bumper in traffic. The claim was denied instantly because my classic car policy has a strict “No drivers under 26” clause that I never noticed in the renewal paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- The 25/26 Age Cliff: Most classic programs strictly exclude any driver under 25 or 26, even if they are your child.
- Named Insured Only: Some policies restrict driving only to the people listed on the policy (You and Spouse). Permissive use (letting a friend drive) is removed.
- Experience Requirements: Even if they are 26, they often need 10 years of licensed driving experience.
- The “Student” Exclusion: Students away at school are high risk. Often specifically excluded.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Driver Restriction Endorsement
To keep premiums low ($300/year for a Ferrari), insurers eliminate the highest risk: Young Drivers.
The clause reads: “Coverage does not apply to any person under the age of 26 operating the vehicle.”
This is not a surcharge; it is a hard exclusion. Coverage is void.
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a policy exclusion listing “Drivers Under 25: NO COVERAGE”]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I tried to add my 24-year-old son to my classic policy.
1. Hagerty
- The Answer: “Generally, no.”
- Exception: If the household has a daily driver for the son, AND he has a good record, they might approve him, but the premium will triple.
- Verdict: Tough, but possible with underwriting approval.
2. State Farm (Standard)
- The Answer: “Yes.”
- The Cost: They rate the classic like a normal car. The premium will be high, but he is covered.
- Verdict: If you want kids to drive, use a standard carrier, not a specialty one.
3. Grundy / Heacock
- The Answer: Strict 25+ limit in most programs.
- Verdict: Don’t risk it.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Specialty Carrier (Hagerty/Grundy) | Standard Carrier (State Farm/Allstate) |
| Age Limit | Strict (Usually 25+) | None (Must be licensed) |
| Permissive Use | Limited / Excluded | Allowed |
| Cost for Young Driver | High (if approved) | Standard Auto Rates |
| Risk of Denial | High | Low |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Read the Driver Clause: Does it say “Named Insureds Only”? If so, NO ONE borrows the car.
- Add the Driver: If your son is going to drive, call and formally add him. If they deny him, do not let him drive.
- Buy a “Standard” Policy: If you want to share the hobby with your teen, insure that specific car with a standard auto carrier (Progressive/State Farm). You lose Agreed Value perks, but you gain coverage for the kid.
- Hide the Keys: Liability is personal. If your uncovered son crashes your classic and hurts someone, you are sued, and insurance won’t defend you.
FAQ Section
Can my mechanic test drive the car?
Yes. The “Service / Valet” exception usually allows professionals to drive the car for business purposes, regardless of age.
What if I am in the passenger seat?
Doesn’t matter. If the operator is excluded, the car is uncovered.
Can I get a one-day permit for him?
Rarely. Insurance is written on annual terms. You can’t usually buy a “Prom Night” rider.