Auto Insurance for Foreigners (2024)
Temporary car insurance and rental car coverage are the most common types of auto insurance for non-U.S. residents. If you'll be in the U.S. on a long-term basis, you'll need to get a U.S. license and auto insurance policy.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Oct 13, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Oct 13, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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- The requirements for obtaining auto insurance as a non-U.S. resident differ from those of U.S. citizens
- You will need an International Drivers Permit before you can get coverage from most insurance companies
- While long-term insurance might be harder to get, there are a few temporary options for coverage
Whether you are a United States resident or not, you need car insurance if you hope to drive legally on U.S. roadways. This is the case whether you live in the country permanently or are visiting on a short- or long-term basis.
If you get into an accident and don’t have insurance, you may be on the hook for damages that you cause and/or sustain. This article will outline how to obtain car insurance in the U.S. for foreigners.
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Can you get car insurance as a non-U.S. resident?
Given that most states require drivers to maintain auto insurance to drive legally, insurance companies must make coverage available to foreigners. However, there are no federal laws that dictate the availability and type of auto insurance coverage that should be offered to non-U.S. residents.
Every insurance company maintains different requirements. If you plan to travel to and drive in the U.S., it’s important to understand your options and responsibilities as a non-citizen driver and take the appropriate steps to get the coverage you need.
Can you drive in the States without a U.S. license?
If you possess a valid driver’s license from your home country, you can legally drive in the States for up to three months. After that, you will likely need an International Driver’s Permit to drive on most U.S. roadways. An IDP is a document that translates your ID into multiple languages. When paired with a valid driver’s license, it allows you to drive legally in 150 countries, including the United States.
Obtaining an IDP is typically easy and affordable, but you must get one from your home country’s motor vehicle department before you travel, as the U.S. doesn’t offer IDPs to non-citizens. Once you have an IDP, you may be eligible for car insurance via one of a few means.
(Read: Best States for Immigrant Auto Insurance)
The exception to the rule is Canadian licenses. Due to an agreement between the U.S. and Canada, Canadians do not need an IDP to drive in the U.S.
Can you get long-term insurance on a car you own if you’re not a U.S. resident?
To qualify for traditional long-term auto insurance on a vehicle you own, you may need a U.S. driver’s license. Most insurance companies that require this ask that you pass the U.S. driver’s license exam within 45 to 60 days of applying for coverage.
The good news is that there are several resources available online to help you study and pass the exam. However, if you don’t pass within the given grace period, the insurance company will refund you your premiums. If you do pass, you will need to establish residency in the state where you live. This can be done in a few ways:
- Showing proof of employment in that state
- Registering your children in local schools
- Living in the state for 30 days or more
- Engaging in some sort of trade in the state
If traditional auto insurance is not an option, you may be eligible for a short-term policy, although it can come with higher rates.
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Are there any temporary insurance options for non-U.S. residents?
Depending on how long you will be visiting the United States, it may make sense to invest in a temporary auto insurance policy. Also known as a short-term auto insurance policy, this covers you for a limited amount of time, typically a minimum of six months. However, you may be able to find an insurer willing to cover you for less time. If you can’t, you may have to cancel your policy before the six months are up and accept the penalty.
If you plan to stay in the U.S. for an extended period, but not long enough to justify purchasing a long-term policy, a temporary policy may be a good fit. Short-term coverage may also be beneficial if you plan to share a vehicle with another driver, borrow a vehicle from a U.S. resident, rent a vehicle, or buy and then sell a vehicle after using it briefly.
Can I pay for insurance on a rental car if I’m not a U.S. resident?
All reputable rental car companies in the United States offer rental car coverage to customers before they drive the cars off the lot, regardless of their residency status. Some companies even require certain drivers to purchase it. If you plan to rent a car for the duration of your stay in the U.S., it may make sense to purchase this supplemental insurance.
Though auto rental insurance policies vary from provider to provider, they are fairly comprehensive. Most policies include the following:
- Liability insurance
- Collision damage waiver
- Personal injury protection (PIP)
- Personal effects insurance
This type of coverage is the easiest to obtain as a non-U.S. resident, as you do not have to provide proof of citizenship or meet other strict requirements. However, rental car insurance can be costly.
The Cost of Rental Car Coverage
Rental car coverage is expensive, so it may only be a good option if the length of time you need insurance is very short. Though the costs vary from provider to provider, the going rates for weekly rental and insurance for economy vehicles are between $230 and $575. Supplemental fees can add an extra $10 to $50 to rental car costs per day.
Auto Insurance Companies With Rental Car Coverage
| Insurance Company | Daily Coverage | What's Covered |
|---|---|---|
| 21st Century | $25-$90 | Temporary rental for covered auto accidents |
| AAA | $25-$50 | Temporary rental (breakdowns, repair, or serving) or short-term leisure use rental |
| Allstate | Up to $30 | Temporary rental or other transportation during repair (collision or other insured loss) |
| American Family | Direct billing with Enterprise Rent-A-Car | Rental car costs, ride share services, taxis, city busses, light rail, commuter trains |
| Amica Mutual | $20 | Rental car costs, ride share services, taxis, city busses, light rail, commuter trains |
| Auto-Owners Insurance | Direct billing | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Esurance | Up to 45 days or $3,000 | Temporary rental after a covered accident of car theft (CarMatch) |
| Farmers | Allows direct billing for up to 30 days | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Geico | Set your limit or use direct billing with Enterprise Rent-A-Car | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Liberty Mutual | Offers discounts with Enterprise Rent-A-Car; will pay all costs at approved auto repair shop | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Mercury Insurance | $30-$100 | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Nationwide | $30-$75 | Rental car or alternative transportation after a covered accident |
| Progressive | $40-$60 | Temporary rental after a covered accident |
| Shelter Insurance | Not specified | Temporary rental after a covered accident or theft |
| State Farm | $25-$50 | Temporary rental and limited travel expenses after a covered event |
| Travelers | Up to $100 | Temporary rental and limited travel expenses after a covered event |
| USAA | Direct billing with Enterprise Rent-A-Car | Temporary rental and limited travel expenses after a covered event |
Compare these prices to the price of non-owner liability coverage, which is between $200 to $400 per year. Though your final rate will depend on your age, gender, driving record, and other factors, it is sure to be considerably lower than what you will pay for rental car coverage.
(Read: What rental auto insurance company is best?)
Getting Auto Insurance in the U.S. as a Non-U.S. Resident
Per the laws of every U.S. state, you must have auto insurance to drive within their boundaries. If you plan to drive in the United States as a non-U.S. resident, it is important to learn how to obtain coverage without a U.S. license.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners obtain auto insurance in a country where they are not citizens?
Yes, foreigners can generally obtain auto insurance in a country where they are not citizens. Many insurance companies offer coverage to non-citizens, provided they meet certain requirements and have the necessary documentation, such as a valid driver’s license and identification.
What documents are typically required for foreigners to get auto insurance?
The specific documents required may vary depending on the country and insurance provider. However, common documents often include a valid driver’s license from the home country, an international driver’s license (if applicable), passport or identification, and proof of legal presence in the country where insurance is being sought.
Is it necessary for foreigners to have a local driver’s license to obtain auto insurance?
The requirement for a local driver’s license may vary depending on the country and insurance provider. Some countries may accept a foreign driver’s license or an international driver’s license, while others may require obtaining a local driver’s license. It’s important to check the specific regulations and requirements of the country where insurance is being sought.
Can foreigners with no driving history in the new country get auto insurance?
Foreigners with no driving history in the new country may face challenges in obtaining auto insurance. Insurance companies often consider driving history as a factor when determining premiums. However, some insurance providers may offer coverage options specifically designed for individuals with no local driving history. Shopping around and exploring different insurance companies is advisable in such cases.
Are there insurance companies that specialize in providing coverage for foreigners?
While there may not be insurance companies exclusively specializing in providing coverage for foreigners, many insurance companies are accustomed to dealing with non-citizen applicants. It’s important to research and reach out to different insurance providers to find those that have experience or policies catering to the needs of foreigners.
Will my foreign driving record be taken into account when obtaining auto insurance?
The consideration of a foreign driving record when obtaining auto insurance depends on the insurance company and the country’s regulations. Some insurance providers may take into account a foreign driving record, while others may focus primarily on the driving history within the country where insurance is being sought. It’s advisable to discuss this with insurance providers for specific information.
Can I use my foreign auto insurance in a new country?
Generally, foreign auto insurance is not applicable in a new country. Each country has its own insurance requirements, and it is typically necessary to obtain auto insurance from an insurance provider within the country of residence or where the vehicle is being driven.
Can foreigners get coverage for rental cars in a new country?
Yes, foreigners can typically obtain coverage for rental cars in a new country. Many rental car companies offer insurance options specifically for non-citizens or individuals without local insurance. Additionally, some credit cards also provide rental car insurance coverage, so it’s worth checking with the credit card company.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...
Licensed Auto Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.