if my child has a drivers permit, do i need to let my insurance know in order for him to drive the car?

If your child has only the permit for driving, you do not have to tell the insurance company about them.  Insurance companies cannot actually add a driver to the policy until they have an actual license.  It is at that time you need to advise your company about the young driver.

If there is an accident involving your child, the insurance company will most likely contact you to find out about the child.  You would then tell them that there is only a permit at the time and there will be no impact on your rates.  However, once licensed, the insurance company can immediately add the surcharge, if applicable, for the accident.

Once licensed, your child will have a higher rate due to their lack of driving experience.  You can help reduce the costs with credits that should be available.  The most common is a good student discount.  Your child is required to have a B, or 3.0 average.  You would provide a copy of the latest grades to be eligible for this discount.  Some insurance companies offer other discounts if the child watches a video. That discount is aboutk 10%, and well worth the 15–20 minutes it takes to watch the video.  Talk to your insurance agent to see if there are any other discounts that may be available.