Auto Insurance For Non-Us Licensed Drivers: Who's Covered?

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, it is more difficult and typically more expensive. Some insurance companies decline coverage to those without a driver's license, but others will extend coverage. This is because car insurance companies view unlicensed drivers as high-risk, and so they will often be charged higher rates. However, some companies, such as GEICO and The Hartford, offer no-license car insurance.

Getting car insurance quotes from companies that don't ask for a license number

It is possible to get car insurance without a license, but it can be more challenging and expensive. Insurance companies use your driver's license to assess your driving record and predict the risk you pose as a driver. Without a license, you are seen as a higher risk.

• Speak with an independent agent: These agents can write auto insurance policies for different insurers and may be familiar with local companies that offer no-license car insurance. They can help you navigate the tricky process of finding a suitable policy.
• Get a state-issued ID card: Some insurance companies will provide coverage if you have a valid form of identification, such as a state-issued ID card. Examples of companies that accept this form of identification include Commonwealth, Advantage Auto, and Direct Auto.
• Be truthful about your license status: While it may be tempting to use a fake or invalid driver's license number, it is essential to be honest. Insurance companies will run a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) to check your driving history, and if they discover any discrepancies, they may drop your coverage.
• Compare quotes from multiple companies: Shopping around is one of the best ways to find affordable car insurance. By obtaining quotes from several insurers, you can compare prices and coverage options to find the best policy for your needs.
• Consider using a comparison website: Websites like NerdWallet's auto insurance comparison tool allow you to compare quotes from multiple companies at once, making it easier to find the most affordable option.
• Provide accurate information: When obtaining quotes, be sure to answer questions about your driving history and vehicle accurately. This will help ensure that the quotes you receive are based on your actual risk profile.
• Check the company's license: Only deal with insurers and agents licensed to sell insurance in your state. You can request the agent's license number to verify their credentials.
• Secure your personal information: When obtaining quotes online, ensure that the website is secure and that your private information is encrypted to protect your privacy.

By following these tips, you can obtain car insurance quotes from companies that don't require a license number while still ensuring that you have the necessary coverage. Remember that being truthful and providing accurate information is crucial to getting the most accurate quotes.

Reasons to get car insurance without a driver's license

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, it is more challenging and typically more expensive. Here are some reasons why getting car insurance without a driver's license may be a good idea:

You can no longer drive but own a car

If you are disabled or unable to drive due to age or health problems, you might still own a car for transportation and have someone else, such as a family member or caregiver, drive you. In this case, you would need to insure the primary driver of your car. You can buy an insurance policy and list yourself as an excluded driver, which would mean you won't have to pay higher rates as a listed unlicensed driver. However, if you do drive and get into an accident, you won't be covered.

You are insuring a car for a minor

Minors cannot enter into legally binding contracts, so if you are purchasing a car or taking out a loan for a young driver, you may need to get car insurance even if you don't plan to drive the vehicle yourself. You can list yourself as an excluded driver and the teen driver as the primary operator, but the rules for excluding a driver vary by state and company.

You are a car collector or storing a vehicle

If you own a vintage, antique, or classic car that you don't intend to drive, you may still want to get classic car insurance to protect it from damages and theft. Some classic car insurance companies offer coverage for spare parts and automotive tools and provide "vehicle under construction" coverage that increases your coverage limits as your restoration work progresses.

Your driver's license has been suspended or revoked

If your license has been suspended or revoked due to DUI convictions, too many traffic violations, or other reasons, your state or a court order might require you to get "SR-22 insurance". This is a form that your insurance company must file with your state, showing that you have at least the minimum car insurance requirements. You can satisfy this requirement by purchasing non-owners car insurance.

You are a new driver

In some cases, you may need to show proof of insurance coverage to obtain a valid driver's license. Therefore, getting car insurance before obtaining your license can be beneficial.

How to get car insurance without a license

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, it is a bit more difficult and typically more expensive. This is because insurers use your driving record to predict the risk you pose and how much they should charge for a policy. Without a license, they are unable to do this.

Speak with an independent agent

Licensed insurance agents can write auto insurance policies for different insurers and may be familiar with local companies that issue no-license car insurance.

Get a state-issued ID card

Some insurance companies will cover you if you have a state-issued ID card. Popular car insurance companies like Commonwealth, Advantage Auto, and Direct Auto will take a state-issued ID card and issue unlicensed drivers a policy.

Buy an insurance policy and list yourself as an excluded driver

This is a risky option. While you are technically insured, an excluded driver is often not adequately protected in the event of an accident.

Non-owner car insurance

If you don't own a car but drive regularly, a non-owner insurance policy can provide liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. This type of insurance is also useful if you borrow cars often, use a car-sharing service, or rent cars frequently.

Classic car insurance

If you own a vintage or collector's car, you may want to get classic car insurance to protect it from damages and theft.

SR-22 insurance

If your license has been suspended or revoked, your state or a court order might require you to get SR-22 insurance. This is a form that your insurance company must file with your state to show that you have at least the state's minimum car insurance requirements.

Remember, it is always best to be truthful about your license status. While it may be challenging to get car insurance without a license, there are options available, and being upfront about your situation will help you navigate the process more easily.

Cheapest car insurance without a license

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, it is more difficult and typically more expensive. This is because insurers use your driving record to predict the risk you pose and how much they should charge for a policy. Without a license, it is harder for insurers to assess this risk.

How to Get Cheap Car Insurance Without a License

• Speak with an independent agent: They may be familiar with local companies that issue no-license car insurance.
• Get a state-issued ID card: Some insurance companies will cover you if you have a state-issued ID card. Popular car insurance companies like Commonwealth, Advantage Auto and Direct Auto will take a state-issued ID card and issue unlicensed drivers a policy.
• Shop around: Compare quotes from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting the most affordable car insurance.
• Reconsider your deductible: Raising your car insurance deductible will get you cheaper rates.
• Look for a good bundling discount: Consider buying your auto and home (or renters) insurance from the same company.
• Review your coverage: Review your coverage, limits and deductibles to verify they continue to fit your needs. This can help prevent you from paying for unneeded coverage.
• Ask about discounts: Many auto insurance discounts are automatically applied when you get a quote, but ask your agent if there are others you may be missing out on.
• Switch to pay-per-mile insurance: If you don't drive very often, this type of coverage may be a cheaper option.

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies

According to Forbes Advisor, USAA, Erie, Auto-Owners, and Nationwide have the lowest average annual rates among the companies they analysed. However, USAA policies are only available to current and former members of the military and their families.

NerdWallet also found that Geico is the cheapest large auto insurance company in the nation for good drivers, with an average annual rate of $349.

Insurers have been experiencing increasing costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, vehicle supply chain shortages, more frequent and severe car accidents, and more dangerous driving behaviours. These factors have led to rising car insurance rates for drivers.

Car insurance with a suspended license

It is possible to get car insurance with a suspended license, but it can be challenging and may be more expensive. Some insurers may not offer you coverage, especially if your driving history indicates that you're prone to risky behaviour or getting into accidents.

Your new insurer may also need to submit an SR-22, a form that some states require to prove you have insurance (a few states require a similar form known as an FR-44). An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that confirms you have purchased the minimum required coverage.

Reasons to Keep Car Insurance with a Suspended License

There are several reasons why you may want to keep your car insurance even if your license is suspended:

• Insurers don't like gaps in coverage: Insurance companies consider a lapse in car insurance coverage to be a red flag and your rate could go up if you have a gap in coverage.
• You may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license: This allows you to legally drive to specific locations, such as work, school, or medical appointments. You will need car insurance to drive with this type of license.
• You need insurance to get your license reinstated: Before your license can be reinstated, you will often have to provide proof of car insurance.
• Your loan or lease company requires it: If you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, you will likely be required to carry insurance to protect their investment. Even if you're not driving, your car could still be damaged or stolen.

How to Get Car Insurance with a Suspended License

• Obtain a restricted or hardship license: Many insurance companies won't insure someone with a suspended license, but they may if you have a restricted or hardship license. The laws regarding this vary by state, so check with your state's department of motor vehicles.
• Shop around for the cheapest insurance: High-risk drivers pay some of the highest premiums, and not all companies will insure them. Comparing quotes can help you get the best rate.
• Obtain an SR-22 or FR-44: You may be required to have your insurer file a certificate of financial responsibility with your state to prove that you carry the required minimum amount of liability insurance.
• Consider non-owner car insurance: Some companies offer non-owner car insurance that gives you liability coverage when driving a car you don't own.
• Look out for discounts: Taking a driver safety course can help lower premiums. Additionally, look for discounts based on bundled insurance, good grades, or membership in certain organizations.

Will My Car Insurance Rates Increase with a Suspended License?

Your car insurance rates may increase with a suspended license due to the increased risk associated with drivers who have had their licenses suspended. This risk assessment, along with the SR-22 requirement and limited options for insurance, can lead to higher insurance costs.

While it is more challenging, it is possible to get car insurance without a US license. Some insurance companies will cover you if you have a state-issued ID card. You can also work with an independent agent who can help you find local companies that issue no-license car insurance.

Frequently asked questions