Best car insurance companies for foreign drivers
| Insurance company | Cost of minimum coverage | Cost of full coverage (50/100) | Cost of full coverage (100/300) |
| GEICO | $402 | $1,179 | $1,261 |
| Progressive | $737 | $1,814 | $1,967 |
| Bristol West | $1,063 | $2,759 | $3,008 |
Full Answer
Do any smaller auto insurance companies offer insurance for foreign drivers?
A handful of smaller auto insurance companies advertise that they provide insurance for drivers with foreign licenses. However, several of these providers — such as Infinity and Gainsco — specialize in working with high-risk drivers, which means they may charge higher rates. Small insurers that sell car insurance to foreign drivers include:
Which US car insurance companies offer insurance for international drivers?
We checked with six of the most popular car insurance companies in the U.S., and only two offer car insurance to drivers with international licenses: Progressive and Farmers.
How can I get car insurance with a foreign license?
Farmers and Progressive allow applicants to state their possession of a foreign license on their quotes pages, indicating a willingness to offer policies to foreign drivers. The Zebra works with insurance companies across the U.S. to help foreign and U.S. drivers find car insurance quotes.
Can international visitors buy car insurance in USA?
Longer-term international visitors who purchase a car (or bring one from their home country) will likely need to buy auto insurance from a U.S.-based company, and not every insurer covers foreign drivers. Additionally, many states require longer-term visitors to get a license, even if they don't intend to stay permanently.
Can foreigners get car insurance in USA?
Some insurance companies strictly work with U.S. drivers. However, many major companies, including Progressive, are happy to offer car insurance for foreigners in the USA who have a recognized foreign license or an IDP. As long as you have a valid license to drive in the United States, you can purchase car insurance.
Can you get car insurance without a US license?
Car insurance companies may flag those without a license as high-risk drivers, but you can still get car insurance without a license. You'll want to find the best car insurance policy for your specific needs.
Is car insurance more expensive for foreigners?
In general, visitors from overseas are likely to pay more for car insurance. American car insurance companies use your driving history — like how long you've been licensed and recent accidents — to determine your rates.
Is Progressive insurance worldwide?
Your U.S. policy likely only covers you in the U.S. and Canada, so you'll need a separate policy when driving in all other countries.
Does Geico insure foreign drivers?
GEICO is our best overall choice for auto insurance for those with either a foreign license or an American license.
Can I get insurance to drive in USA?
However, the good news is that it is possible to get car insurance as a non-U.S. citizen. Longer-term visitors may want to apply for a U.S. driver's license, even if they already have a foreign license. Having an American license and driving record may help foreign drivers save money on car insurance down the line.
Can I get car insurance on international license?
Can I get insurance with a foreign driver's licence? Yes, although you might have to pay a little more. Insurers often base policy costs on how likely you are to run into risks, such as car theft or road accidents. There are ways to bring down the cost of your insurance though.
Can I get car insurance from another country?
Overseas insurance is an easy way to protect your car, motorcycle, or personal property when you move to a different country. Please note that overseas insurance isn't travel insurance and doesn't include health insurance.
Can a non resident insure a car in Florida?
The vehicle you own must have a Florida registration and license plate and be insured with a Florida policy when a non-resident: accepts employment or engages in a trade, profession or occupation in Florida; or. enrolls children to be educated in a Florida public school.
What is international car insurance?
What is International Auto Insurance? International auto insurance is a type of car insurance that protects cars you own when you're abroad. If you're an expat or work abroad and are planning to use your vehicle in another country, often your domestic car insurance policy won't cover this due to territory restrictions.
Is Geico and Progressive the same company?
Geico is not owned by Progressive. Berkshire Hathaway owns Geico, while the Progressive Corporation is an independent company. Progressive is the second-largest auto insurance company in the U.S., according to the NAIC.
Is Progressive owned by Nationwide?
No, Nationwide and Progressive are not the same company. Progressive and Nationwide are two separate companies, and both of them are independent corporations owned by investors and shareholders.
Is my car insurance valid in Mexico?
Mexico has some of the strictest insurance and driving regulations in the world, and U.S. auto policies are not valid in Mexico. If you'll be drivi...
How to get insurance when driving in Mexico
Progressive can provide you with appropriate auto coverage through MexPro, a specialized broker for Mexico insurance policies. Get a quote through...
What insurance documentation should I carry in Mexico?
When you purchase Mexico car insurance, you should receive a receipt, declarations page in English and Spanish, disclosures, claims instructions, r...
What documentation is needed to drive in Canada?
Besides your driver's license, you'll need an additional form of personal identification (such as your passport or birth certificate), as well as y...
How to get insurance for cruises?
Check that the policy will meet that country's requirements. You may be able to get insurance through your credit card company. Of course, you'll need to provide evidence that you're a legal driver before being allowed to cruise off an overseas rental lot.
Do you need to carry a copy of your insurance when driving?
While traveling, carry one copy of your documentation when you're driving and keep one in a more secure place like your hotel safe. You should also be prepared to access a digital version just in case. If you get in an accident or pulled over, show your printed documentation to the police as proof of insurance.
Can you get auto insurance in Mexico?
U.S. auto insurance policies aren't valid in Mexico. If you'll be driving there, even for a short time, auto insurance is required by Mexican law, and you could end up in jail if you're involved in an accident and don't have it. If you're found to be at fault, Mexican authorities could detain you until liability coverage for the necessary amount can be verified. Because of this, the U.S. State Department recommends adding bail coverage to your Mexico auto policy.
Is Mexico a strict driving state?
Mexico has strict insurance and driving laws, and the consequences of breaking those laws can be serious. If you'll be driving in Mexico, plan ahead by getting the appropriate coverage and knowing what to do if the unexpected happens.
Does Progressive have Mexico insurance?
Progressive can provide you with appropriate auto coverage through MexPro, a specialized broker for Mexico insurance policies. Get a quote through us, and they'll help you find policies tailored to your travel plans that have all the coverages you need to be fully compliant.
Is the above information an insurance policy?
Please note: The above is meant as general information to help you understand the different aspects of insurance. This information is not an insurance policy, does not refer to any specific insurance policy, and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions expressly stated in any insurance policy.
Do you need insurance for a rental car in Mexico?
It's recommended to insure a car you rent in Mexico through the rental agency. Coverage for a few days is usually affordable, and driving in Mexico can be hazardous due to poor road conditions and unenforced traffic regulations, so consider purchasing the highest liability coverage you can afford.
How much does car insurance cost?
Car insurance costs an average of $1,548 per year in the U.S. For a six-month policy, that comes out to $774, or $129 per month. Rates vary widely depending on a number of factors, including your age, credit history and driving history. The type of coverage you choose may also impact your rates.
What is an IDP for car insurance?
As a foreign driver, it helps to have what is known as an International Driving Permit. An IDP serves as proof that you are licensed to drive in your home country. However, you should know that an IDP is NOT a valid driver's license. It simply serves as a translation for your foreign license ...
Do you have to carry liability insurance?
With some exceptions, most drivers are required to carry liability coverage, which includes both bodily injury and property damage coverages . There are a handful of no-fault states in the U.S. in which you're required to carry Personal Injury Protection instead of bodily injury. If you're leasing or financing your vehicle, you will also be required to carry Collision and Comprehensive coverage. Below are brief explanations of what these coverages do.
Do undocumented people need a driver's license to get insurance?
Because the majority of car insurance companies require a driver’s license before they can sell you a policy, undocumented citizens must have a valid license in order to apply for insurance. As it stands, only 11 U.S. states and DC have policies that allow undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses.
Which states do not use credit scores as a rating factor?
Thus, drivers with a poor credit history tend to be more expensive clients. California , Hawaii and Massachusetts are among the only states to not use credit scores as a rating factor.
Does Progressive have a foreign license?
Farmers and Progressive allow you to state that you have a foreign license on their quotes page, indicating their willingness to offer policies to foreign drivers. The Zebra works with insurance companies across the U.S. to help foreign and U.S. drivers find the best quotes on car insurance.
Can I buy car insurance while traveling?
If you're a short-term visitor, i.e. visiting the U.S. on vacation, your best bet for car insurance is to purchase it through your car rental company . If you're moving to the states or living in the U.S. long-term, it may make sense to buy insurance from an American insurance company . To drive legally in the U.S. as a foreign driver, you need insurance and a license from your country of origin, and you may need an International Driving Permit.
Which car insurance companies charge higher rates?
However, several of these providers — such as Infinity and Gainsco — specialize in working with high-risk drivers, which means they may charge higher rates. Small insurers that sell car insurance to foreign drivers include: Dairyland. Infinity.
How to get insurance from another insurance company?
You may also be able to get coverage from another major national insurance provider by speaking with an insurance agent on the phone or in person. State Farm, for example, requires you to enter a Social Security Number or a driver's license number to get a quote online — but some of their agents specialize in helping drivers with foreign licenses get car insurance.
What is an IDP license?
An IDP is a document issued by your home country that translates your driver's license into several languages , including English. Because the permit is only a translation of your regular license, you'll need both documents to be considered "licensed" in places that require it.
What is liability insurance?
Liability coverage: Pays the other driver's medical and car repair expenses if you are at fault in a crash. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Covers your own medical and car repair expenses if the other driver is at fault but does not have insurance. Personal injury protection: Pays for your medical treatment after a car crash, ...
What is personal injury protection?
Personal injury protection: Pays for your medical treatment after a car crash, regardless of who is responsible
Do you have to have insurance if you fly into New York?
For example, if you fly into New York City and rent a car at the airport, you'll have to get coverage that meets or exceeds the limits in New York. But if you drive to another state, like New Jersey or Pennsylvania, you won't need to worry about meeting the auto insurance requirements there.
Do you need insurance for long term visitors?
Car insurance for long-term international visitors. If you're staying in the U.S. for a sustained period of time and are planning on buying or leasing a car, you will need to get your own insurance policy. Auto insurance is a requirement in order to register and drive a vehicle in most states. Unfortunately, car insurance is not always simple ...
What is Progressive insurance?
Progressive auto insurance is available to drivers with a foreign license. In addition to offering standard coverages like liability insurance and collision insurance, Progressive offers roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, rideshare coverage, and more.
What is the best auto insurance company?
Geico: 4.5 Stars. Geico is one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S. and our pick for best overall auto insurance company. As a part of national holding company Berkshire Hathaway, Geico wrote over $34 billion in premiums in 2019, according to the NAIC.
What type of insurance is required to drive a car?
Each state dictates what type of insurance is required to drive a motor vehicle. Most states require a minimum level of liability auto insurance , which pays for the medical bills and property damage of other drivers and passengers in an at-fault accident.
What is the rating of Geico auto insurance?
Geico auto insurance received a 4.5-star rating in our review for its availability, affordable cost, and excellent customer service. The company holds an A++ financial strength rating from AM Best, which means that Geico is well-suited to pay claims to members.
What is IDP insurance?
An IDP will give you the ability to drive a rental car, and rental car companies offer coverage for international drivers called supplemental liability protection. According to Allstate, rental car agencies typically provide three types of car insurance for non-U.S. citizens. Liability coverage: This type of coverage protects you in case you injure ...
How much does auto insurance cost in 2017?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average annual auto insurance premium was $1,004.68 in 2017. Unfortunately, foreign drivers are generally not considered to have any driving experience until they begin driving with a U.S driving license.
What type of insurance covers your personal items?
Personal effects coverage: This type of coverage covers your personal items, such as your laptop and suit, if they are stolen from your vehicle. Personal accident insurance: This type of coverage helps pay the medical bills for you and your passengers if you’re injured in a rental car accident. If you’d prefer to not rent a car, another option ...
What is PIP insurance?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) - PIP pays your medical bills whether you're at fault or the other driver is at fault.
What is collision insurance?
Collision - Collision coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle if you're in an accident that's your fault or a single-vehicle accident. You have to pay a deductible when filing a claim.
How much does rental car insurance cost?
According to ValuePenguin, you can expect to pay between $8 and $30 a day for rental car insurance, depending on the level of coverage you purchase. Whether you stick with minimum coverage or buy extra protection depends on what gives you the most peace of mind and how much money you're comfortable spending.
Do foreigners need insurance?
roadways. How much coverage a foreign visitor needs depends on how long they plan to stay in the country.
Does car insurance cover travel to another state?
When it comes to car insurance, CarInsurance.com notes that if meet one state's minimum requirements, you're covered if you have to travel to another state temporarily. For example, if you're staying in New York City, you'll have to purchase enough insurance to meet the state of New York's minimum requirements. If you end up having to drive into New Jersey, the insurance you bought in New York will cover you.
Does Progressive insure a foreign driver?
In a survey of six of United States' leading insurance companies, ValuePenguin found that only two will insure a driver with a foreign license. Progressive and Farmers will insure your vehicle if you have a license from your home country, while Geico, State Farm, Esurance, and Allstate require you to have a driver's license issued in the U.S. if you want to buy coverage. It should be noted that all six of these companies sell insurance online. You might have better luck contacting another provider over the phone or in person.
What is comprehensive insurance?
Comprehensive. Ensures you’re covered for the expense of replacing or repairing your vehicle — regardless of fault — for damages that aren’t within your control, including fire, vandalism and flooding.
What is personal injury protection?
Personal injury protection. Covers health care after an accident regardless of fault, including ambulances, nursing care and lost income.
How to apply for insurance as a long term visitor?
How to apply for insurance as a long-term visitor. In order to take out a policy from an insurance provider as opposed to a car rental company, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility requirements. Some states only require that you have a valid, unexpired driver’s license from your home country.
What is the minimum amount of insurance required for a driver in Florida?
For example, Florida requires all drivers to have $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability. In New York, however, the required coverage is far more extensive.
How to get an international driving permit?
Other states require an international driving permit (IDP) which must be obtained in your country of residence before you land in the US. Regardless, you’ll also need to provide appropriate details when applying for coverage, which may include: 1 Mailing address in the US 2 Contact phone number or email address 3 Vehicle registration details
Do you need insurance to drive a sports car?
Sports cars. If you’re traveling around the US and don’t plan to use public transportation, you’re likely going to need a car. To legally drive in most states, you need a minimum amount of car insurance. And different rules will apply if you’re driving a rental car, borrowing someone else’s or buying your own.
Do credit cards have car insurance?
Many credit cards with travel rewards include car rental insurance, so check to see if you’re already covered. If not, obtain insurance through the rental company or get short-term insurance through a provider.
What insurance do you need to drive?
Another type of coverage some states will require before you can legally drive is personal injury protection. Also known as no-fault insurance , it pays for medical and burial costs, regardless of who was at fault in the accident.
How long can you drive on a foreign driver's license?
You may only be able to drive on an overseas driver’s license for up to three months.
How long does it take to get an international driver's permit?
It takes approximately two weeks to receive your IDP, so be sure to apply well in advance. An IDP is typically valid for one year from when you get it and includes your information displayed on the driver’s license. You will need to provide a passport-style photo that the agency can attach to the IDP.
Can a student get insurance if they don't have a driver's license?
Longer-stay visitors on a visa, such as a student or specialized worker, may have trouble getting affordable insurance coverage if they don’t have a U.S. driver’s license. The insurance company will have less information to work with about the driver, potentially flagging the foreigner as higher risk.
When Visiting The United States
When Moving to The United States
- Non-citizens making a long-term move to the U.S. can drive on a foreign license or an IDP for a set period. The time limit may vary by state, but you can typically driveon a foreign license for three months and an IDP for a year. From there, you can purchase an insurance policy to match that length of time — a temporary short-term policy if you're ...
Coming to The Us from Canada
- The rules are slightly different if you're from Canada and driving into the United States. If you're on vacation, you don't need to take any extra steps — your Canadian license and insurance will cover you during your time in the U.S. When relocating from Canada to the United States, you'll need to register your car with the DMV in the state where you'll be living. Once you've done that, you can …