Foreign Driver's License? Get Auto Insurance Here

Foreign nationals visiting or living in the U.S. need to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding car insurance for international drivers. Foreign drivers in the U.S. must follow the same auto insurance laws as U.S. citizens, and car insurance is required to drive in most states. While short-term visitors can usually purchase insurance from a rental company, long-term visitors may need to buy insurance from a U.S.-based insurance company. Some companies don't insure foreign drivers, but a few, including Progressive and Farmers, offer policies to drivers with foreign licenses.

Foreign drivers in the US are required to have car insurance

If you're bringing your own car to the US, you will need to purchase car insurance from a US provider. Talking to an independent licensed insurance agent can help you find the best policy and provider for your needs. They can suggest the right amount of coverage and help you search for the policy that best fits your needs. Most US-based car insurance providers also offer the ability to purchase a car insurance policy online.

If you're moving to the US or living in the country long-term, it may make sense to buy insurance from an American car insurance company. Some insurance companies will not issue insurance policies to drivers without a valid US license or social security number. Without a US driver's license, insurance companies have a difficult time reviewing your driving history or credit score. Some US insurance companies do issue policies for foreign drivers, but rates may be higher. 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.

If you plan on temporarily driving in the US with a driver's license from your home country, be aware of the local rules about how long you may legally operate a vehicle with a foreign license. You may only be able to drive with a driver's license from another country for up to three months. If you intend on staying longer, some states advise you to get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Even if an IDP is not mandatory, having one may be a good idea. The document doesn't replace your foreign-held driver's license—it serves as an accompanying translation of it. If you get pulled over, the officer can look up the translation of your driver's license in the IDP booklet in the language of their choice and see that you are a valid driver.

Foreign driving history does not transfer to the US

It is important to note that even if your foreign driving history does not transfer to the US, you may still be required to provide a copy of your driving record from your previous country of residence. This is because some insurance companies in the US will issue policies to foreign drivers, but the rates may be higher. These insurance companies may request information about your driving history, including any traffic violations or accidents, to determine your eligibility and calculate your insurance rates. The process for obtaining your driving record will vary depending on the country you are coming from, but it can usually be obtained from the agency that issued your license or the local police or transportation department.

If you are a short-term visitor to the US, you may not need to worry about transferring your driving history or applying for a US driver's license. In most states, you can drive with a valid foreign driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP serves as proof that you are licensed to drive in your home country and should always be accompanied by your native country's license. However, it is important to check the specific requirements of the state you are visiting, as some states may have different regulations.

If you plan to stay in the US for an extended period, you may need to obtain a US driver's license and purchase car insurance from a US-based insurance company. This process can be more challenging, as some insurance companies will not issue policies to drivers without a valid US license or social security number. It is recommended to contact insurance companies directly to inquire about their specific requirements and policies for foreign drivers. Additionally, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of residency or a visa, depending on your immigration status.

In summary, while your foreign driving history may not transfer to the US, you can still drive in the country by following the appropriate procedures and requirements. For short-term visits, a valid foreign driver's license or an IDP is usually sufficient. For long-term stays, you may need to obtain a US driver's license and purchase car insurance from a US-based insurance company, which may require additional documentation and have higher rates for foreign drivers.

International driving permits (IDPs) are valid for one year in the US

To obtain an IDP, you must first meet your home country's legal driving requirements and possess a valid license from that country. Together, these documents prove your driving ability, and you will not need to take a sequential driving test in the US. The American Automobile Association (AAA) is the only entity in the US authorised by the US Department of State to issue IDPs. The process for obtaining an IDP varies depending on your home country, but it typically involves submitting an application, providing passport photos, and paying a fee. It is important to note that you cannot apply for an IDP in the US; it must be obtained before your arrival.

When driving in the US with a foreign license and an IDP, it is essential to have car insurance. If you are a short-term visitor, purchasing insurance through your car rental company is a convenient option. However, if you plan to stay in the US long-term, you may need to buy insurance from an American car insurance company. Some companies, such as Farmers and Progressive, offer policies to foreign drivers, but rates may be higher.

Before visiting the US or any other country, it is recommended to check the specific requirements for driving licenses and IDPs to ensure you are properly prepared and legal to drive.

Some insurance companies do not insure foreign drivers

If you're a foreign visitor to the US, you will need to purchase car insurance if you want to drive or own a vehicle. This is a legal requirement, and you may need to apply for a new driver's license, depending on how long you plan to stay in the country.

Some insurance companies do not issue insurance policies to drivers without a valid US license or social security number. Without these, insurance companies may struggle to review your driving history or credit score. As a result, some companies will not insure foreign drivers.

In a survey of six of the United States' leading insurance companies, only two—Progressive and Farmers—will insure a driver with a foreign license. Geico, State Farm, Esurance, and Allstate require drivers to have a US-issued driver's license.

If you are a foreign visitor, you will usually end up paying more for car insurance. Insurance companies use your driving history to calculate your rates and determine how much of a risk you are to insure. If you have a foreign driver's license, an insurance company cannot access your driving record, so they will often charge the highest rates possible to be cautious.

However, some companies do offer policies for foreign drivers, and you can also purchase insurance from a rental company if you are only in the US for a short time.

Foreign drivers are considered new drivers and may pay higher rates

In the US, insurance companies base auto insurance rates on risk. New drivers are considered a higher risk because they are inexperienced and more likely to be in an accident. This means that insurance companies will charge higher rates to compensate for the increased likelihood of insurance claims.

Additionally, some insurance companies will not issue insurance policies to drivers without a valid US driver's license or social security number, which can make it more difficult for foreign drivers to obtain insurance. However, some companies do issue policies for foreign drivers, including Farmers and Progressive, and The Zebra works with insurance companies across the US to help foreign drivers find car insurance quotes.

If you are a foreign driver in the US, it is important to be aware of the local rules and regulations regarding car insurance. You will need to have insurance and a license from your country of origin, and you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP serves as proof that you are licensed to drive in your home country and can be useful if your license is not in English.

When it comes to insurance rates, foreign drivers may be classified as "new drivers" for up to nine years or until they reach the age of 25. This means that foreign drivers may pay higher insurance rates for an extended period of time. However, there are ways to reduce insurance costs, such as maintaining a clean driving record, comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies, and taking advantage of discounts offered by insurance providers.

Frequently asked questions