Progressive Car Insurance Review 2026
Progressive stands out for innovative tools (Snapshot telematics, Name Your Price) and the best rates after a DUI. Trade-off: above-average base rates for clean-record drivers.
Pros and Cons
- Best rates for drivers with DUIs or violations
- Snapshot telematics saves up to 30%
- Name Your Price tool (unique budget approach)
- Comparison tool shows competitor rates
- Strong online and app experience
- SR-22 filing available
- Rideshare coverage available
- Above-average base rates for clean-record drivers
- J.D. Power customer satisfaction score 820/1000 (below avg)
- Snapshot can increase your premium if driving is poor
- Mixed customer service reviews
- Name Your Price can result in inadequate coverage
Progressive Rates by Driver Profile
| Driver Profile | Avg Annual Premium | vs National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Clean record, age 35 | $2,546/yr | Near national avg |
| One speeding ticket | $2,900/yr | Below avg for violation |
| At-fault accident | $3,200/yr | Below avg for violation |
| DUI conviction | $3,500/yr | Best major insurer for DUI |
| Young driver (age 20) | $3,450/yr | Average |
Progressive Snapshot: How It Really Works
Snapshot monitors five main factors: hard braking events (most impactful), acceleration, time of day (late night driving is penalized), total miles driven, and phone use while driving. New enrollees get an immediate 5-7% discount for signing up.
No hard braking, daytime driving, low mileage, no phone use
Occasional hard braking, some late night, moderate mileage
Frequent hard braking, late night, high mileage, phone use
Who Should Choose Progressive?
- Drivers with DUIs or serious violations
- Drivers needing SR-22 filing
- Tech-savvy drivers who will earn Snapshot discounts
- Comparison shoppers (Progressive shows competitor rates)
- Clean-record drivers seeking the lowest base rates
- Drivers who value customer service ratings
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Progressive good for high-risk drivers?
Yes, Progressive is typically the best major insurer for high-risk drivers. After a DUI, Progressive's average rate is around $3,500/year, compared to national averages that can exceed $4,500/year after a DUI at other insurers. Progressive specifically prices risk by violation type rather than applying blanket surcharges, which benefits drivers who have had a single serious incident more than multiple minor ones.
How does Progressive Snapshot work?
Progressive Snapshot uses a mobile app or a plug-in device (in older cars) to monitor your driving. It tracks factors including how hard you brake, the time of day you drive, how many miles you drive, and how you accelerate. The program starts with an immediate discount for enrolling. After your first term (typically 6 months), your final discount based on your actual driving behavior is applied to your renewal. Discounts range from 0% to 30%. Snapshot can also increase your premium if your driving scores poorly.
What is Progressive's Name Your Price tool?
Progressive's Name Your Price tool lets you enter your target monthly budget and shows you coverage options at that price point. It is a useful way to understand what coverage you can afford at your budget, but it is important to understand that lower prices come with less coverage. The tool does not always show the cheapest option; it shows what fits your stated budget. Always verify you have adequate coverage limits, not just an appealing premium number.