You do not need to be added to your family insurance policy while you have your permit. Once you get your license then you get added on.

Do not get a separate policy if you are under 18 years old. It is more expensive and your parents are legally responsible for you whether you have a separate policy or not.

When you get insurance, make sure your parents are specific when they add you on. Specific meaning if your family owns a 2005 Acura and you know you won't be driving that vehicle, then you want to be quoted/added to the older vehicle you are more likely to drive. You will be covered under all vehicles unless you sign something specific saying you can never drive this vehicle. (Not normally). Most insurance companies, not all, add you on to the policy quoting off of the newest vehicle therefore costing you more money.

Remember the insurance follows the car. If you let someone drive that car and they wreck it; the damages go on your insurance.