Can I get car insurance with a foreign driver’s license? (2026 Insurance Rules)

You might be thinking, Can I get car insurance with a foreign driver’s license? The answer is yes, with monthly rates starting at $75. However, premiums can vary based on several factors like your driving history, the country where your license was issued, and the insurance provider you choose.

Driving permit reciprocity, the type of coverage required, and the duration of your stay in the U.S. all play a role in determining your rates. If you’re wondering whether you need a driver’s license to get car insurance, it’s essential to understand these factors before diving in.

This guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining car insurance with a foreign license so you know what to expect and how to find the best deals.

If you are looking to visit the U.S. and are in need of auto insurance, start comparison shopping by entering your ZIP code above.

Fewer insurance companies offer coverage for people with a foreign driver’s license. Enough companies make it an option, though. So you can still find different companies from which to get quotes.

If you are looking to visit the U.S. and are in need of auto insurance, start comparison shopping by entering your ZIP code above

Type of Insurance for Drivers With a Foreign Driver’s License

The kind of insurance coverage required by a non-U.S. citizen depends on the value of the car, its type, and who owns it. According to the law, all cars must possess liability coverage. If you want additional coverage to protect your passengers and car, there are additional options for coverage, including:

• Willful damage
• Theft
• Fire
• Accident
• Personal injury protection
• Collision
• Comprehensive coverage
• Rental car coverage

Liability coverage is meant for:

• Motorcycles
• Light passenger vans
• Private passenger vehicles

If the non-U.S. Citizen is purchasing a vehicle, then its value will determine what kind of insurance to take. Along with the coverage options discussed before, liability insurance will provide plenty of protection, if the vehicle is of little value.

If a non-U.S. citizen plans on renting a car, he/she will still need to get his/her own auto insurance policy. You will have to buy comprehensive and collision coverage in addition to other covers that are mandatory in your state.

If the non-U.S. citizen plans on borrowing a car from family or friends, then the value of the car will also be considered. If the owner of the car has liability insurance only, then it will not be necessary to get a policy at an extreme level.

If the car is comprehensively insured, then this should also be matched. A more cost-effective method of making sure that the vehicle is fully insured is to add the foreigner as a temporary driver on the owner’s insurance policy.

If you intend to drive in the U.S. as a non-citizen, it is good to do your own investigations on the steps required before arriving. It will pay to know a local insurance broker. Remember to get an international driver’s license in your country of origin.

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The Cost of Car Insurance for International Drivers

There are auto insurance companies in the U.S. that give auto insurance to international drivers. Unfortunately, auto insurance for international drivers will often be at reasonably higher premiums than for those who have a valid and clean resident license.

If you’ve been in an accident, your rates will go up. Some discounts also aren’t available to international drivers.

The high rates are due to the following facts:

Underwriting Requirements

Some insurance companies are strict with new applicants. According to their rating schemes, an international driver is classified as a driver with no experience.

Credit History

Insurers in most U.S. states put a lot of emphasis on an individual’s credit history [known as an insurance score] when issuing auto insurance rates.

In such states, without a U.S. credit history, foreign drivers will have difficulty accessing the best rates.

Local Driving History Data

The insurance company needs your local driving record as a basis for calculating your premium. Unfortunately, most auto insurers are not able to verify or use driving records from another country.

Thankfully, the tips below will help you save on car insurance even if you are a non-U.S. license holder:

• Shop around and compare quotes from various insurance companies before settling for the most competitive one. Many insurers accept foreign license holders, and some will even shift your no-claims years to enable you to access a discount straight away.
• Secondly, talk to an independent agent who works on behalf of many companies and compare different quotes with the same coverage.
• Establish a local license early enough if you intend to initiate residency.
• Learn the license requirements for the state you plan to visit. Familiarize yourself with the DMV’s prerequisites for foreign drivers. You can also seek to secure a resident license if that option is available.
• Establish excellent credit in the U.S. if you intend to become a citizen or stay for an extended period of time. Good credit will help you obtain the best car insurance rates.

Finding the Best Auto Insurance Rates with a Valid License

As a driver with an international driving license, I would like to learn more about the rules and regulations that govern foreign drivers in the U.S. This information can easily be found on the internet. You can also visit the U.S. embassy in your country of origin.

While securing favorable auto insurance rates can be challenging for foreign drivers, many insurers have stepped up to fill this need. If you’re exploring car insurance for UK drivers in the US, it’s important to read on because understanding your options can help you find the best coverage and rates tailored to your situation.

It is important to shop around and compare different rates before settling for the most competitive one. Start comparison shopping today for auto insurance rates by entering your ZIP code below.