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Last Updated on January 7, 2026
USAA is a standout option for eligible military members, veterans, and their families who want strong customer service, reliable claims handling, and competitive pricing. The biggest downside is simple: if you don’t qualify for USAA membership, you can’t buy a policy.
This updated review breaks down USAA’s auto insurance coverage options, pricing and discounts, customer satisfaction and financial strength, and what to consider before you switch.
4.7
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Bottom line: USAA is a strong pick for eligible military members, veterans, and families who want dependable claims support and competitive pricing, but it’s not an option if you don’t qualify for membership.
USAA offers the core auto coverages most drivers need plus practical add-ons like rideshare coverage, rental reimbursement, and SR-22/FR-44 filings where available, with products and discounts that can vary by state. The article highlights USAA’s reputation for strong customer service and reliable claims handling, along with top-tier financial strength, and notes that discounts through programs like SafePilot, bundling, and driver/student-focused savings can meaningfully lower premiums for qualifying members. The main limitation is eligibility, and the review also notes that certain add-ons (such as “traditional” GAP) may not be offered in the same way as some other insurers.
| Category | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Availability | Auto policies are offered nationwide, but products and discounts can vary by state. |
| Best For | Eligible drivers who prioritize service, claims support, and long-term value. |
| Notable Perks | Strong satisfaction results in major industry studies, plus military-focused features like deployment-friendly policy management. |
| Potential Drawbacks | Membership restrictions, and some add-ons (like traditional GAP) may not be offered the same way as other insurers. |
USAA auto insurance is only available to people who qualify for USAA membership. In general, eligibility includes many active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans who separated under qualifying conditions, and certain family members (like spouses and children).
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, this guide explains who can get coverage: Membership is restricted to active duty or retired members of the United States Armed Forces and certain qualifying family members.
USAA offers the core coverages most drivers need, plus a solid lineup of optional add-ons. Availability can vary by state, vehicle type, and your policy details.
Liability Coverage: Most states require drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, including bodily injury and property damage. USAA policies can meet state minimums or higher limits if you want more protection.
Collision Coverage: If you finance or lease a vehicle, your lender typically requires collision coverage. It helps pay to repair or replace your car after an at-fault accident (minus your deductible).
Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive coverage helps pay for non-collision losses like theft, hail, fire, vandalism, falling objects, and animal-related damage.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Medical Payments (MedPay): Depending on your state, USAA may offer personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage to help cover medical bills after an accident—no matter who caused it.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): If you’re hit by a driver with no insurance (or not enough), uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help protect you from paying out of pocket.
Rideshare Coverage: If you drive for Uber or Lyft, a personal auto policy may not cover you during certain phases of the app-on period. USAA offers rideshare coverage to help fill those gaps left by Uber and Lyft’s insurance.
Rental Reimbursement: If your car is in the shop after a covered claim, rental reimbursement coverage can help pay for a temporary rental vehicle.
Rental Car Coverage: Many drivers assume a rental company’s insurance is required, but it depends on your policy and the rental situation. Here’s how USAA covers the rental car in common scenarios.
Classic and Collector Vehicles: If you own a collector vehicle, you may want specialized coverage like agreed value protection. Here’s a guide on how to insure a classic or collector vehicle.
RV and Trailer Coverage: Coverage needs can change when you move beyond a standard passenger vehicle. If you’re unsure what applies, start here: Do you need RV insurance? USAA can also help in many cases with trailers and related setups.
Non-Owner Car Insurance: If you don’t own a car but still drive occasionally, non-owners insurance from USAA can help keep you covered and avoid a lapse.
Windshield/Glass Claims: Glass damage is usually handled under comprehensive coverage. This explains how USAA will cover the damage depending on your policy and whether it’s a repair vs. replacement.
SR-22/FR-44 Filings: If your state requires proof of financial responsibility, USAA can file one on your behalf (where available) after you purchase the required coverage.
Salvage and Rebuilt Titles: Insuring a rebuilt title can be tricky with some carriers. Here’s what to know about USAA rebuilt title insurance.
USAA’s biggest differentiator is that it’s built around serving the military community. That shows up in eligibility rules, customer support culture, and how the company designs policy management for people who relocate frequently or deploy.
USAA is known for strong core coverage, but it’s not always the best fit if you want every possible add-on. For example, USAA generally doesn’t market “traditional GAP insurance” the same way many carriers do. If you’re financing a vehicle and you’re worried about being upside down after a total loss, you may want to compare your options for GAP coverage separately.
If you’re shopping for GAP specifically, here are insurers that typically offer it: the top companies to buy gap insurance from.
Car insurance prices have risen significantly nationwide over the last few years, so older “average premium” figures are often no longer realistic. The price you pay with USAA will depend heavily on your state, vehicle, age, driving record, coverage limits, deductibles, and (in many states) credit-based insurance scoring.
As a benchmark, Bankrate’s November 2025 analysis reported an average USAA full-coverage premium of $2,201 per year (and $636 per year for minimum coverage), compared to a national average of $2,697 and $820, respectively (Bankrate USAA review).
For a deeper breakdown of what affects pricing (and how to lower it), see: USAA’s prices.
If you’re debating between carriers, these comparisons can help you narrow your shortlist: State Farm and GEICO.
USAA is known for competitive base pricing, but stacking discounts is still the fastest way to lower your premium. Discounts vary by state and driver profile, and some require enrollment or verification.
Start with the full list here: USAA’s extensive range of discounts.
USAA is frequently a top-tier choice for eligible drivers, but it’s not automatically the best fit for every situation (especially if you need niche add-ons or want multiple quote options).
You can typically manage most USAA policy tasks online or in the USAA mobile app (get a quote, pull ID cards, update vehicles/drivers, pay bills, and start claims). If you prefer phone support or have a complicated situation (deployment, out-of-state garaging, SR-22 filing, etc.), calling is often the fastest path.
Before canceling any policy, make sure your new policy is active first to avoid a coverage lapse.
If you need help with an existing policy, billing, claims, or eligibility questions, please contact USAA today.
| Department | Contact |
|---|---|
| Main Phone (Quotes, Service, Claims) | 800-531-8722 |
| Mailing Address | USAA Insurance Company 9800 Fredericksburg Road San Antonio, TX 78288 |
| Website | USAA.com |
If you qualify for membership, USAA is often one of the strongest overall choices for auto insurance—especially for drivers who value dependable claims support and consistent service over flashy add-ons. Just make sure you compare coverages and deductibles carefully, confirm which discounts you qualify for, and review any optional protections you may need (like GAP alternatives if you’re financing a vehicle).
