Car Insurance for Immigrants: What to Know
Foreign drivers can get car insurance from rental car agencies or U.S. insurance companies, but the process may vary by state and by your immigration status.
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Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.
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Table of contents
Whether you’re moving to the U.S. or just visiting, you’ll need car insurance to legally operate a vehicle. Even if you have a foreign license from your home country, U.S. insurers will still consider you a new driver, and you’ll pay higher rates.
Finding affordable car insurance as an immigrant can be complicated, especially for undocumented immigrants. Below, you’ll learn how to navigate the process so you can secure the coverage you need to drive safely and confidently.
Quick Facts
Most insurers only consider U.S. driving history when making policy decisions.
New drivers typically face higher rates than more experienced ones.
You can reduce costs by comparing quotes from multiple companies and bundling your insurance policies.
When foreign drivers need U.S. car insurance
All U.S. states except New Hampshire require drivers to carry auto insurance. Foreign drivers visiting the U.S. and renting a car can typically get temporary car insurance through the rental agency. But if you plan to stay for an extended period of time or move to the U.S., you’ll need to get a standard American insurance policy.
To get car insurance, you’ll need a driver’s license. Some insurers may allow you to use your foreign license, but you may also need an international driving permit (IDP), depending on the state you’re driving in. An IDP is not a license but instead proof that you’re licensed to drive in your home county. If you move to the U.S., you may also need to get a driver’s license in the state where you reside.[1]
How car insurance works in the U.S.
Car insurance protects drivers from the costs of accidents, damage, and other unforeseen incidents on the road. It also covers property damage and medical treatment for injuries sustained by drivers and passengers. If you don’t have car insurance, you’ll be responsible for covering vehicle expenses out of your own pocket.
These are the main types of car insurance coverage:
Liability
Liability insurance includes coverage for bodily injury and property damage. If you cause an accident, bodily injury pays the injured person’s medical expenses and property damage helps cover the repair costs of the other person’s vehicle or other damaged property.
Comprehensive
You’re not required to carry comprehensive insurance, but it’s often included in full-coverage car insurance policies. It covers damages caused by non-collision incidents, such as theft, vandalism, fire, storm damage, and animals.
Collision
Like comprehensive coverage, collision insurance is also optional. It covers vehicle damage from a collision with another car or object, such as a tree or fence.
Personal injury protection
Also known as no-fault insurance, personal injury protection helps with medical bills, lost income, and funeral expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if a driver who doesn’t have auto insurance hits you or if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run.
Driving without car insurance exposes you to various financial and legal risks. If you’re caught driving without an active insurance policy, you’ll receive a fine, and some states will even revoke your license. And if you cause an accident while driving without insurance, you’ll be liable for property damage and bodily injury costs.
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How car insurance works for undocumented immigrants
Most insurers require you to have a driver’s license to obtain coverage, so foreign drivers will need to first get a license in order to buy a policy. In 16 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., undocumented drivers are allowed to get their driver’s licenses without proof of legal presence in the U.S.[2]
But you’ll still likely need to provide proof of residency and some identification.[3]
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, check with your state motor vehicle department or the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Like all foreign drivers, undocumented immigrants will likely pay higher rates with most insurance companies. So, it may pay to shop around to find the best rate once you have a driver’s license.
How much does car insurance for immigrants cost?
The average cost of car insurance in the United States is $136 per month. And since insurance companies treat immigrants as new drivers, their rates may be more expensive than rates for other U.S. drivers. Maintaining safe driving habits, taking advantage of discounts, and comparing car insurance quotes are some of the best ways to save money on your policy.
The below national rates are estimated rates current as of: Monday, March 9 at 12:00 PM PDT.
Data reviewed by Konstantin Halachev
Konstantin HalachevVP of Engineering & Data Science
7+ years experience in data analysis
Ph.D. in Computational Biology
Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.
State Name  | Liability Only | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| New Hampshire | $94 | $139 |
| Hawaii | $104 | $214 |
| Montana | $105 | $203 |
| Iowa | $110 | $193 |
| Wyoming | $110 | $192 |
| Wisconsin | $110 | $207 |
| North Dakota | $120 | $191 |
| South Dakota | $122 | $269 |
| North Carolina | $123 | $166 |
| Alaska | $126 | $203 |
| Mississippi | $127 | $242 |
| New Mexico | $129 | $247 |
| Tennessee | $134 | $261 |
| Alabama | $137 | $259 |
| Indiana | $141 | $258 |
| Nebraska | $141 | $267 |
| Idaho | $146 | $231 |
| Kansas | $147 | $270 |
| Ohio | $147 | $247 |
| Arkansas | $148 | $274 |
| Vermont | $149 | $307 |
| Oklahoma | $149 | $290 |
| West Virginia | $162 | $276 |
| Colorado | $163 | $343 |
| Missouri | $165 | $310 |
| California | $171 | $352 |
| Pennsylvania | $171 | $270 |
| Illinois | $174 | $316 |
| Minnesota | $178 | $307 |
| Oregon | $180 | $280 |
| Utah | $182 | $268 |
| Maine | $193 | $317 |
| Louisiana | $194 | $343 |
| Arizona | $205 | $347 |
| Washington | $206 | $356 |
| Massachusetts | $206 | $289 |
| Michigan | $208 | $326 |
| Kentucky | $210 | $326 |
| Virginia | $218 | $349 |
| Texas | $231 | $410 |
| New York | $236 | $268 |
| Connecticut | $258 | $365 |
| Delaware | $261 | $360 |
| Nevada | $268 | $403 |
| Maryland | $271 | $395 |
| Georgia | $282 | $426 |
| Florida | $285 | $353 |
| New Jersey | $287 | $398 |
| South Carolina | $291 | $421 |
| Rhode Island | $297 | $406 |
| Washington D.C. | $309 | $453 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Best car insurance companies for immigrants
Some car insurance companies won’t work with foreign drivers, but it’s still possible to find car insurance coverage in the U.S. Start your search with the insurance companies below.
Progressive: Best for discounts
| JD Power J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale. | 622 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.7 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $91/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $157/mo |
How drivers feel about Progressive
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Easy buying process
Telematics program
How drivers feel about Progressive
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Easy buying process
Telematics program
Showing recent national reviews - See all 8,158 Progressive reviews
Max
Verified Review
Disappointed with Rate Increase
Reviewed in Utah on March 12, 2026
I'm disappointed that my rates were raised because a power line broke and set my tool shed on fire.
Jamie
Verified Review
Progressive Insurance
Reviewed in Louisiana on March 12, 2026
I am very pleased with Progressive. I have not made any claims, but so far I am very pleased.
Amanda
Verified Review
Progressive Rip Off
Reviewed in Alabama on March 12, 2026
I had Progressive for about 12 years, and we were Emerald level clients. After 2 accidents last year, they sent me a non-renewal notice. I was upset, but it turned out to be a blessing because they were charging about $8,800 for full coverage for 3 cars per year. After shopping around online, I found 2 different major companies that offered the same policy for about half the price. I will definitely shop prices every few years from now on.
…
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
622NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.97A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+Why we picked this company
Foreign drivers in the U.S. might look to Progressive for coverage, which offers competitive rates and insures drivers with an IDP or recognized foreign license. If you enroll in Snapshot, the company’s safe-driving program, the company says you could save more than $200 on your premiums, on average.
Several discounts are also available, including those for being a good student, signing your policy documents online, setting up automatic payments, and going three years without an accident or moving violation.
Pros
Insures drivers with a recognized foreign license or an IDP
Numerous available discounts to help drivers save
A+ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best
Cons
People enrolled in Snapshot program could see rates increase if they demonstrate unsafe driving habits
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Negative customer reviews on Trustpilot
Liberty Mutual: Best for safe drivers
| User Reviews | 3.4 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 7.7 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $150/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $208/mo |
3.4
A solid optionBased on 3,642 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Liberty Mutual
Drivers appreciate the ease of making payments and the company’s helpful customer service. But they dislike the frequent and unexplained rate increases, and some report difficulties in communication and claim handling.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Numerous discounts
New and financed vehicles
Accident forgiveness
How drivers feel about Liberty Mutual
Drivers appreciate the ease of making payments and the company’s helpful customer service. But they dislike the frequent and unexplained rate increases, and some report difficulties in communication and claim handling.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Numerous discounts
New and financed vehicles
Accident forgiveness
Showing recent national reviews - See all 1,889 Liberty Mutual reviews
Michelle
Verified Review
Not recommended
Reviewed in Florida on March 11, 2026
The cost keeps rising.
William
Verified Review
A Good Experience
Reviewed in New York on March 8, 2026
Very good service.
Maury
Verified Review
Review of Liberty Mutual Insurance
Reviewed in New York on March 6, 2026
Very expensive.
…
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
612NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
4.28A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
AWhy we picked this company
Liberty Mutual offers several discounts to help safe drivers save, including a claims-free discount and a discount for not having any moving violations on your driving record. If you enroll in the company’s safe-driving program, RightTrack, you’ll get an initial discount of 10% for participating, and you could save up to 30% for completing the program.
Pros
Drivers can save up to 30% with the RightTrack safe-driving program
Above-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best
Cons
May not have the cheapest car insurance rates
J.D. Power consistently rates it below average for customer satisfaction
Negative customer reviews on Trustpilot
State Farm: Best for customer satisfaction
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.3 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $55/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $107/mo |
4.0
Best choiceBased on 15,982 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about State Farm
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
How drivers feel about State Farm
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
Showing recent national reviews - See all 7,209 State Farm reviews
Larry
Verified Review
Not pleased that State Farm is overpriced
Reviewed in Virginia on March 12, 2026
Shop around. State Farm is high but good.
Ir
Verified Review
Excellent
Reviewed in Michigan on March 12, 2026
Don't deal with an agent that doesn't respond to your questions or needs.
Beatrice
Verified Review
Fair
Reviewed in New York on March 12, 2026
Too expensive, they keep raising it without any reason.
…
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
657NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.84A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++Why we picked this company
State Farm is the largest insurance company in the U.S. by market share and has a long-standing history in the insurance industry. J.D. Power consistently rates it highly for customer and claims satisfaction, indicating that policyholders are happy with the company.
If you have an IDP and meet your state’s requirements for a driver’s license, you should be eligible for coverage with State Farm.
Pros
Insures foreign drivers who meet their state’s requirements for a driver’s license, which could include an IDP
Above-average J.D. Power customer and claims satisfaction ratings
Many available discounts to help you save
Cons
Not as many discounts as some competitors
Doesn’t offer accident forgiveness coverage
Gap insurance not available
Hallmark: Best for non-owner insurance
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | NR |
4.0
Best choiceBased on 10 verified driver reviews and ratings
Best For
SR-22 insurance
Short-term coverage
Foreign-born drivers
Best For
SR-22 insurance
Short-term coverage
Foreign-born drivers
Showing recent national reviews - See all 4 Hallmark reviews
Michael
Verified Review
Hallmark is Great
Reviewed in Tennessee on July 29, 2024
They had the best rate at the time.
Michelle
Verified Review
Average
Reviewed on September 7, 2023
The pricing is mostly reasonable.
Jackie
Verified Review
Excellent
Reviewed on September 30, 2019
The prices are good and low.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
NRNAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
2.35A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A-Why we picked this company
Hallmark Financial Services offers car insurance for temporary residents, international students, and workers with foreign driver’s licenses. If you don’t own a car but still drive occasionally, you might want to consider a non-owner policy from Hallmark. This type of policy typically costs less than a standard car insurance policy, but it ensures you have enough coverage to drive legally.
Pros
Offers coverage to people with a foreign driver’s license
Non-owner policies available for infrequent drivers
A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Cons
Available in only seven states
Not rated by J.D. Power for customer service or claims satisfaction
Poor AM Best financial strength rating
Kemper: Best for high-risk drivers
| User Reviews | 3.7 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | NR |
3.7
A solid optionBased on 347 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Kemper
Customers appreciate the affordable initial rates and easy claims process but dislike the slow customer service and frequent rate increases.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Hard-to-insure drivers
SR-22 insurance
Affordable rates
How drivers feel about Kemper
Customers appreciate the affordable initial rates and easy claims process but dislike the slow customer service and frequent rate increases.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Hard-to-insure drivers
SR-22 insurance
Affordable rates
Showing recent national reviews - See all 167 Kemper reviews
Roberta
Verified Review
I feel what I pay is a bit high, but I did want collision and that jumped up the price. I feel Kemper is a good insurance company.
Reviewed in Florida on February 14, 2026
I feel what I pay is a bit high, but I did want collision and that jumped up the price. I feel Kemper is a good insurance company.
Tina
Verified Review
Do NOT use Kemper
Reviewed in California on February 10, 2026
Terrible, they charge extra for glass coverage. I was in an accident on 12/30 and still have not heard back from them. When you call, it goes to a call center that cannot help you or transfer your call, just to a payment portal. Of course, they want their money, but they don’t want to help you. I got the number of the person who’s supposed to be handling my claim. I’ve been calling them since probably December 31 and have never gotten a call back. The voicemail gives the number to the supervisor and says they will call you back within 24 hours, but that’s also not true because here it is February 11 and I still have not heard back from them.
David
Verified Review
The Best Auto Insurance
Reviewed in New York on December 4, 2025
Excellent help.
…
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
528NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
13.7A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A-Why we picked this company
An insurer will consider you to be a high-risk driver if you have violations on your record, such as a speeding ticket, at-fault accident, or DUI. It can be harder to find coverage as a high-risk driver, but Kemper works with people who have marks on their driving record. You can also get a policy with this insurer if you have a state ID, IDP, or a matrícula consular.
Pros
Policies available for drivers who only have state IDs, IDPs, or a matrícula consular
Works with high-risk drivers
A- financial strength rating from AM Best
Cons
Not many discounts available
Not rated by J.D. Power for claims satisfaction
Can’t get a quote online; must contact an agent
Factors that affect car insurance for immigrants
You’ll face unique challenges when trying to get car insurance as an immigrant, such as possible language barriers, the lack of a Social Security number, and limited driving experience in the U.S. But you’ll also feel the effects of factors common to all drivers, such as age, location, and the type of car you drive.
Below, you’ll find an overview of the factors affecting car insurance for immigrants.
Immigration status
Immigrants in the U.S. fall into two main legal status categories: documented and undocumented. A documented immigrant is a person who has legal authorization to reside in the U.S., while an undocumented immigrant doesn’t. It may be more challenging for undocumented immigrants to get car insurance, as only 16 states and Washington, D.C., allow undocumented people to get a driver’s license.
States that allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license include:
Driver profile
Various factors make up a driver’s profile, and each can affect car insurance rates, including:
Age: Insurers typically charge higher premiums for drivers younger than 25.
Location: If you live in a city, you’ll probably pay more for insurance than someone living in a small town.
Gender: Women generally pay less for car insurance than men because they have a lower accident rate.[5]
Marital status: Married couples may receive better car insurance rates than single people in some instances where they qualify for discounts.
Claims history: You may pay higher premiums if you’ve filed claims in the past, depending on the type and cost of the claim.
Vehicle use: How you use your vehicle can affect rates, such as whether you use it for work or pleasure and your annual mileage. Drivers who work for a rideshare company may pay more for insurance.
Driving history
U.S. insurers won’t be able to access your foreign driving history. But once you’re insured in the U.S., insurers will keep a close eye on your driving habits.
Your driving history in the U.S. affects insurance costs significantly, as it’s the clearest indicator of what kind of driver you are. Insurance companies consider accident history, traffic violations, and DUIs to determine your overall insurance risk.
Credit status
Some states allow insurers to consider credit-related information when making insurance decisions, such as using credit-based insurance scores. These scores help insurers predict how likely you are to file a claim, so they play a role in determining your rate.
People with a poor credit history, or no credit file, generally pay high insurance rates. As a result, foreign drivers with no U.S. credit history will likely pay more for insurance in states where insurers consider credit-based scores.
Some states ban or limit the use of credit in insurance decisions:
California
Hawaii
Maryland
Massachusetts
Type of car
Your vehicle type and cost can also affect your insurance rates. For example, if your car has a strong safety record, your premiums may be lower. On the other hand, if your car is a type that’s commonly stolen, your costs may be higher.
)
Learn More: How Much Car Insurance Do You Need?
How immigrants and non-citizens can save on car insurance
Navigating the insurance system in a new country can be challenging. Immigrants and foreign visitors can maximize car insurance savings by taking the right steps.
How to buy car insurance
Research your state’s laws. The process for obtaining car insurance varies by state. Check with your local department of motor vehicles for your state’s requirements.
Get a driver’s license. You’ll need a U.S. driver’s license to get car insurance. If you’re in the U.S. temporarily, you may be able to use an international driver’s license to purchase insurance.
Figure out how much insurance you need. Aside from your state’s minimum coverage requirements, you may want to purchase additional coverages, such as comprehensive and collision, for broader protection.
Request quotes from multiple insurers. Compare quotes from several insurers to find the best deals and coverage options.
Choose your policy. Once you find coverage that meets your needs, contact your broker or apply directly with the car insurance company. You can typically choose to pay the cost of your policy up front or break it up into monthly payments.
How to lower your car insurance costs
These are some good ways to lower your car insurance costs:
Ask about discounts. Ask your insurance company about discounts, such as discounts for being a safe driver, being a good student, and completing defensive driving classes.
Bundle policies. Many insurers offer discounts when you purchase multiple insurance policies with them, such as auto and homeowners insurance.
Increase your deductible. One way to save on car insurance is to increase your deductible.[6] Keep in mind that while increasing your deductible can reduce your insurance costs, you may pay more out of pocket for a covered loss.
Drive a safe vehicle. You will pay less if you drive a vehicle with good safety scores.
Review your policy. Review your insurance policy every six months or annually to ensure it aligns with your current needs. Adjust coverage limits, remove unnecessary riders, or explore other insurance companies if your situation has changed or you find a better deal.
Car insurance for immigrants FAQs
Moving to a new country is overwhelming; purchasing car insurance shouldn’t have to be. Below, you’ll find answers to some commonly asked questions about getting car insurance as an immigrant.
Can non-U.S. citizens get car insurance?
Yes. Non-U.S. citizens can get car insurance, but they may face some unique challenges depending on immigration status and other factors, like age, location, gender, and the type of vehicle they drive.
Is car insurance more expensive for immigrants?
Yes. Car insurance is more expensive for immigrants since insurance companies generally consider foreign drivers to be new drivers and therefore higher-risk. You may be able to lower your rates in time by maintaining safe driving habits, shopping around for the best rates, and seeking out discounts.
What is the best insurance for immigrants?
The best insurance for immigrants varies depending on your coverage needs, your budget, your immigration status, and how long you’ll need U.S. insurance. If you’re here for a short-term visit, purchasing insurance through your rental car agency is probably the best bet. But if you’re living in the U.S., you’ll need to purchase a U.S. policy.
Some top insurers to consider include Progressive, Liberty Mutual, and State Farm.
How can you get a U.S. driver’s license?
The process of getting a U.S. driver’s license varies based on your state of residence. Undocumented immigrants are unable to get a driver’s license in certain states. Contact the department of motor vehicles in your area or visit its website to learn about your state’s rules.
Can you get a license without a Social Security number?
Yes. You can get a driver’s license in the U.S. without a Social Security number, depending on your state of residence. Some states let you apply for a license with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you’re ineligible for a Social Security number.
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Sources
- USA.gov. "Driving in the U.S. if you are not a citizen."
- United We Dream. "Can I get a Driver's License if I am undocumented?."
- National Conference of State Legislatures. "States Offering Driver’s Licenses to Immigrants."
- National Conference of State Legislatures. "States Offering Driver’s Licenses to Immigrants."
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Highway Loss Data Institute. "Fatality Statistics - Males and females."
- Insurance Information Institute. "Understanding your insurance deductibles."
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Sarah ArchambaultInsurance Writer, Editor
Experienced personal finance writer
Background working with banks and insurance companies
Sarah enjoys helping people find smarter ways to spend their money. She covers auto financing, banking, credit cards, credit health, insurance, and personal loans.
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Sarah enjoys helping people find smarter ways to spend their money. She covers auto financing, banking, credit cards, credit health, insurance, and personal loans.
Ashley CoxSenior Managing Editor
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