One of the most popular gifts for teens these days is their own set of wheels. There are few gifts than mean so much freedom after graduation as a set of keys to their own ride.

But buying a car for a teen might end up costing you a lot more than you think. Consider all the gas, maintenance, service check-ups, and maybe the occasional fender-bender or ticket. All this without considering the insurance costs as well. It�s a spooky thing for most parents, the decision to give their children all that freedom in the form of a car. Remember that teens without previous driving experience are considered a high risk for insurance companies and for good reason. Teens under 21, especially males, have a knack for getting into accidents.

Of course being able to afford that perfect car for your teen does not mean you should feel obligated to purchase one. Here are some questions to ask yourself before you put your teen behind the wheel of their own vehicle:

• Does he/she really need a car?
• Are they responsible?
• Would it be better for your teen to earn the car?
• Will a used car work as well as a new car?
• Does your teen need a car for work or school?
• Do they already have an established driving record?
• Who is going to pay for the gas, maintenance, and service?
• Do you trust your child to avoid the dangers of drinking and driving, drugs, and overloading the car with friends?
• Does he/she respect curfews and/or callback times?
• Are you comfortable with your teenager having a car?

Accurately gauging your teen�s maturity level will be extremely important in making this decision. Perhaps no other gift you will ever buy them will require as much responsibility. Of course, in the long run, your child is going to be driving on a regular basis anyway. Your best bet is to make sure that your teen is ready to make the transition.