Root Car Insurance Review [2024]

Root car insurance rates are calculated based on your driving performance which is measured on the Root app using GPS sensors. To see if you qualify for Root car insurance, you must take a test drive.

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Kalyn Johnson

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Kalyn grew up in an insurance family with a grandfather, aunt, and uncle leading successful careers as insurance agents. She soon found she has similar interests and followed in their footsteps. After spending about ten years working in the insurance industry as both an appraiser dispatcher and a senior property claims adjuster, she decided to combine her years of insurance experience with another...

Insurance Claims Support & Sr. Adjuster

Tracey L. Wells

Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner

Tracey L. Wells is a licensed insurance agent and Farmers insurance agency owner with 23 years of experience. He is proud to be a local Farmers agent serving Grayson, Georgia and surrounding areas. With experience as both an underwriter and agent, he provides his customers with insight that others agents may not have. His agency offers all lines of insurance including home, life, auto, RV, busi...

Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner

UPDATED: Feb 26, 2024

Advertiser Disclosure

It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.

Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.

Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.

Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.

Company Details
Address: 80 E Rich St Suite 500
City: Columbus
State: OH
ZIP Code: 43215
Phone Number: 866-980-9431
Year Founded: 2015

Here's what you need to know...

  • Because Root is all about offering affordable coverage to good drivers, you’ll take a test drive before you have to enter any personal information to find out if you qualify for coverage
  • Root has a robust app that’s command center for your coverage, so you’ll always have quick access to your billing statement, insurance card, and more
  • You can pay for Root month-to-month or pay off a six-month auto insurance policy in one payment
  • Get Root quotes online to see if you can save money

Note: We are not associated with Root and cannot provide any assistance with Root insurance claims or other issues.

We looked deeper into Root to get a feel for their company and to understand how their auto insurance works. Read on to learn more and find out whether they could be a good fit for you.

It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices. On the market for better coverage? Click here and enter your zip code to get multiple personalized quotes from local auto insurance providers to save.

What is Root Insurance Company?

Car insurance is expensive, and more drivers are looking for alternative options to traditional auto insurance policies to save money. Root is a new car insurance company that strives to take the work out of getting car insurance with “no agents, no phone calls, no hassle”.

One of the most novel aspects about Root is the fact it’s entirely app-based. Despite having a great website design chock-full of important information and explanations, all the actual insurance work happens on your Apple or Android device.

Root claims to be able to save good drivers up to 52 percent on car insurance, but how? Can you trust car insurance you bought off an app?

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What Do I Need to Know About Root Auto Insurance?

Every car insurance company has their own way of calculating car insurance premiums but all of them are based on a series of criteria such as location, age, and even your job. Root, as its name implies, gets to the origins of what really matters when it comes to what you should pay for premiums— how well you drive.

Dubbed by Forbes as “real-time, context-based” insurance, Root launched as a startup originally for Tesla owners but has since expanded and now offers lower coverage to drivers of any vehicle.

Founder Alexander Timm has over 14 years experience in the insurance industry; he understands what works, and, more importantly, knows where it could be improved. He founded Root to make car insurance less of a hassle and more of an asset.

How Does Root Insurance Work?

Root embraces modern times and uses technology to determine exactly how well you drive and reflects the results in the cost of your car insurance. When you download the app, you’ll have to take a test drive to determine your eligibility.

Using your smartphone’s GPS and motion sensors, Root will test your driving abilities based off a variety of factors like braking, smoothness, and traffic habits.

Your results will be evaluated by an AI, and the results will determine whether or not Root offers you a quote.

Who Is Root Car Insurance Good for? 

Root is a good choice for people with a good driving record who want to save more on car insurance. Root breaks down how their car insurance pricing works on their site, and we have to say, their algorithm poses a new model that could dramatically cut costs and make insurance a lot more affordable.

Like we said earlier, a lot of factors go into determining car insurance costs. Every company has their own algorithm, but your driving record doesn’t play as large of a role as it should in most cases.

After answering tons of questions online, you’re ultimately placed in a risk pool that will determine how much you pay from any given company.

Sure, you can save money by qualifying for additional insurance discounts and participating in savings programs like Liberty Mutual’s RightTrack and State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save. But your driving record and daily habits don’t typically influence your premiums the most, which is unfair to a lot of people to say the least.

If you’re someone who is typically given high quotes due to your age, gender, or location, Root might be able to cut down major costs and give you a quote that reflects how well you drive and the type of coverage you actually need.

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What States is Root Currently In?

Root is based out of Columbus, OH, and has plans to expand its business across the nation. The company recently started offering coverage in Kentucky and Philadelphia, bringing its availability up to a total of 17 states. Here’s the full list of states you can buy Root car insurance in:

  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • New Mexico
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • Texas
  • Utah

What Insurance Options Does Root Offer?

They offer a lot of the major types of car insurance coverages required by state and needed by drivers. Here’s a full list of their offerings:

Root offers liability coverage required in every state as well as additional coverages every driver should have like comprehensive and collision. There are also additional offers that will keep you secure in the event of an accident like under/uninsured motorist coverage and Personal Injury Protection (PIP).

Roadside assistance is included with every package, so you’ll never have to worry about being stranded. There’s also optional rental insurance that will make it easier to afford to get back on the road while your car is in the shop.

Does Root Offer Any Discount Opportunities?

You know about discount programs at other auto insurance companies. The difference between Root and its larger competitors is that their entire model is based off giving you discounts.

Instead of having to install a device, download a separate app or wait an entire policy period to find out what you can save, Root offers instant discounts on car insurance coverage all from their main app, and your savings are applied to all your coverages as soon as you’re eligible.

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Does Root Offer Pay-as-You-Go Car Insurance?

Some people only need temporary coverage; Root’s auto insurance allows you to pay-as-you-go. You can sign up and pay for your insurance monthly or switch to one payment every 6 months. If you switch to a six-month payment plan, you won’t be able to switch pack until your policy’s 6-month renewal.

Even if you choose a later start date for your policy, payments are deducted immediately, so make sure you’re serious about switching to Root before you buy from them.

Is Root Car Insurance Legit?

It’s understandable that you’d be skeptical of a car insurance policy you bought on an app. In case you’re worried this could all be a scam, we did our homework. Root is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has a rating of A+.

Customer opinions matter, too. At the time of this review, Root was rated 4.5 stars on the App Store and 4.4 on Google Play Store with over almost 10,000 combined ratings.

How Do I Get a Root Insurance Policy Online?

Root wants to take the work out of car insurance. Everyone needs it, but that doesn’t mean it should be such a chore (or a bore).

You’ll find out whether or not you’re eligible for coverage, and then Root will walk you through the buying process. It’s fast, easy, and by far the most modern car insurance company we’ve seen so far.

Of course, just because Root’s coverage is easy to access doesn’t mean you should immediately buy it. You still need to employ the smart shopping skills that can save money without cutting back on coverage.

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How Do I Get A Root Insurance Quote?

Download the Root app on the Apple App or Google Play store and sign up for a test drive.

Can I Save Money and Get Better Car Insurance by Comparison Shopping?

Enter your zip code below and get matched with personalized auto insurance quotes. Why enter the same information over and over again on car insurance websites when you can be one and done with our site? We encourage you to take some time, explore our articles and learn about car insurance coverage and the buying process.

Like Root, we believe auto insurance should be easy to find and cheap to keep. Good drivers deserve fair premiums. We’re glad you’ve stopped by. Now stay and start saving.

Can I Compare Cheap Root Auto Insurance Quotes Online?

  • Root calculates your insurance premium based off how you drive
  • For those who have a good driving record and are tired of the traditional insurance model, Root might be the right choice
  • To get a quote from Root, you’ll have to take a driving test using your smartphone

Root car insurance is a new company that is changing the system. Technology is changing the landscape of every industry, and insurance is no exception.

Check out our Root car insurance review to find out if Root is a good car insurance company.

Don’t want to take the driving test? Didn’t make the cut? That’s okay. There are still plenty of other options out there to explore. Enter your ZIP code above to get free car insurance quotes from multiple insurers.

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Step #1 – Get the Scoop on Root

Visit Root’s site to find out what makes them tick. Their site is easy to follow and offers a clear breakdown of the quote and purchase process.

Step #2 – Explore Coverage Options

There’s no point in applying for a quote without knowing what it’s for, right? Check out Root’s auto insurance coverage options page and learn a thing or two about the different types of auto insurance they provide (as well as policies you may not have even known of!)

Step #3 – Make Sure Your State is Covered

Root is a growing company, so it isn’t available in every state yet. On the Availability page, you can get a full overview of all the states that Root currently services and get a glimpse at where they’re headed next.

They’re currently available (summer 2018) in:

  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • New Mexico
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • Texas
  • Utah

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Step #5 – Create an Account

You can sign up for a Root account on the site and use it to log in to the app, which you’ll need to get your quote.

Step #6 – Download the Root App for Car Insurance

Head over to the App or Google Play Store (depending on your phone) and download the Root Car Insurance app.

Step #7 – Take the Driving Test

Rather than have you waste time answering a bunch of questions to give you a generic rate, Root calculates your premium based off how well you drive.

The Root test drive

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Step #8 – Buy a Policy

Root auto insurance policies are renewed on a month-to-month basis. If you’ve been looking for temporary car insurance, this company is a great option.

Step #9 – Customize Your Coverage

When you buy a policy, Root lets you choose different types of  insurance coverage and adjust the limits of each. You can check out your state’s requirements, but we suggest going higher than the bare minimum so you have guaranteed coverage in the event of an accident.

Step #10 – Find More Ways to Save

Root has a comparison page that showcases their best features against the competition.

Their services and ratings are clearly displayed, along with different measurements they use to gauge themselves against other car insurance companies.

It’s a relatively unbiased and helpful presentation that can highlight some key comparison topics you may overlook on your own.

If you’re not convinced or still want to see what’s out there, let us help. Enter your ZIP code on our site to get free car insurance quotes.

We can also help you get in touch with an insurance agent right away and get one-on-one counseling to find the perfect coverage for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Root Insurance Company?

Root is a car insurance company that offers app-based insurance coverage and calculates rates based on driving performance.

How does Root Insurance work?

Root uses GPS sensors on your smartphone to measure your driving performance and determine your insurance rates. You need to take a test drive using the Root app to qualify for coverage.

Is Root Car Insurance good for everyone?

Root is a good choice for drivers with a good driving record who want to save money on car insurance. It offers personalized rates based on driving habits and coverage needs.

What states is Root currently available in?

Root is based in Columbus, OH, and currently offers coverage in 17 states. The availability may vary, so it’s best to check their website for the most up-to-date information.

Does Root Insurance offer any discounts?

Yes, Root offers instant discounts on car insurance coverage through their app. They have a model based on providing discounts rather than traditional discount programs offered by other insurance companies.

Reviews
for Root Insurance

3.33 (720 reviews)
5
February 25, 2024

MAVI

Best INSURANCE ever…..

Yessir let’s get this poli-cy started 😁🏝️🎊 Good work guys making my coverage worth it and cheap. Thanks Roots
5
February 22, 2024

ZephCon0615

Most part it's a good insurance

So far so good. Just having a little trouble setting up my permissions location, so that they can help me keep my insurance.
5
February 20, 2024

Grateful_customer_

Grateful for a new way to find good car insurance

I'm super excited that am being judged on my driving skills. Root has helped me save money. Thank you
1
February 17, 2024

Jhamm

Disappointed with this company

You did not advertise the fees associated with the initial deposit. Also the quote given did not give comprehensive and collision which is required in state of Texas so after purchasing I realized that this insurance would not be legal and I adding it on was more than my current provider so I decided to cancel. This all happened in 15-30 minutes. I pod $160 for the deposit but was only refunded $100 - I was insured for less than 30 minutes . T...
You did not advertise the fees associated with the initial deposit. Also the quote given did not give comprehensive and collision which is required in state of Texas so after purchasing I realized that this insurance would not be legal and I adding it on was more than my current provider so I decided to cancel. This all happened in 15-30 minutes. I pod $160 for the deposit but was only refunded $100 - I was insured for less than 30 minutes . This is unacceptable.
5
February 15, 2024

Traci26

So far so good

I've only been with them for a couple of weeks but so far I'm happy, the signup process was easy, the rates and coverage are good, they seem easy to work with, and I like that my rates will be based on my driving quality.
5
February 4, 2024

Valleygirl77_

Wonderful experience

I was able to get insurance from Root for a lower rate for full coverage. Love the fact they actually keep up with my driving skills to get an even lower rate to help me save money.
5
January 30, 2024

Darkz

7/10

A Little bit on the expensive side. Had to put almost 400$ down but they have good benefits and coverage
5
January 24, 2024

Darma

Great find insurance

Easy application and pretty good rates and they do all for me like contact the loan company for me!
4
January 23, 2024

Stein

best Price

Very good Insurance company as for auto Root is half the price I was paying at another company so far I am happy with my choice to join Root
4
January 20, 2024

Qgard1992

Over all good experience

Fast and easy to get going! Pretty good price for coverage. Not sure why I have a driving score of 9/10 though, scored 10/10's on both of the categories, "smooth breaking" and "driving focused"
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