Car insurance prices in Northern Ireland fell by an average of £2 over the last quarter, the smallest decrease among UK regions. Average premiums now stand at £624, third highest regionally and 8% above the UK average.

Young drivers aged 17-24 pay £1,386 on average, 26% more than the national average for that group. Drivers aged 18 in Belfast face costs over £3,150, highest in the UK. Premiums for Belfast drivers drop by more than £700 after age 19.

A 20-year-old in Causeway Coast and Glens pays £936 annually, while one in Belfast pays £2,217. Drivers aged 17-23 account for 24% of fatal or serious accidents in Northern Ireland despite holding 8% of licences. In 2024, young drivers contributed to 164 road casualties.

Northern Ireland will introduce graduated driver licensing in October, first in the UK. Measures include a six-month learner wait before practical tests, plus limits on night driving and passengers for new drivers.

Ian Wilson, managing director at CompareNI.com, stated that higher claim costs and poorer road safety drive elevated Northern Ireland premiums. He noted young drivers bear the highest costs and expressed hope that graduated licensing improves safety and lowers rates over time.