Does U.S. Car Insurance Cover You in Canada?
Most major U.S. auto insurance companies cover you while driving in Canada. But it’s important to check your coverage for potential limits.
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Written byJessica Martel
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Jessica is a freelance writer, professional researcher, and mother of two rambunctious little boys. She specializes in personal finance, women and money, and financial literacy. Jessica is fascinated by the psychology of money and what drives people to make important financial decisions. She holds a Masters of Science degree in Cognitive Research Psychology.
Jessica has been a contributor at Insurify since July 2023.
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Edited bySarah Archambault
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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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Reviewed byMark Friedlander
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Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.
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Table of contents
Thanks to reciprocal car insurance agreements between the United States and Canada, your U.S. car insurance will likely cover you during a road trip to Canada. But before you go, it’s still a good idea to check with your insurer to confirm you’re covered.[1]
Here’s what you should know about U.S. car insurance coverage in Canada.
Quick Facts
Canadian law requires all drivers to have car insurance, but regulations vary widely by province and territory.
You’ll likely need Canadian auto insurance if you’re planning an extended trip or a move to Canada.
Canadian insurance is available from government insurers and private insurers, but purchasing restrictions differ across the provinces and territories.
Car insurance requirements in Canada
In Canada, it’s illegal to drive without car insurance. Drivers must have minimum auto insurance, known as “mandatory coverage.” Where and how you purchase car insurance can vary between Canadian provinces and territories.
Auto insurance in Canada is similar to the U.S. in that nearly every Canadian province and territory has minimum insurance requirements. But some provinces require you to purchase insurance from the government, while others allow you to purchase from private companies or some combination of the two.[2]
In Canada, the penalties for driving without mandatory insurance also differ between provinces and territories.
For example, in Ontario, the fine for driving without insurance is $5,000 — plus a tax of approximately 20% — for a first offense, for a total of about $6,250. The amount doubles for each subsequent conviction.[3]
How U.S. car insurance works in Canada
Your U.S. auto policy won’t typically cover you internationally, but it does offer some coverage in Canada.
As a foreign driver in another country, you’ll usually require an international driving permit (IDP). But the rules are different in Canada, where U.S. drivers typically don’t require a separate travel insurance policy. Because of a reciprocal agreement between the two countries, all you require is a U.S. auto insurance policy for driving in Canada.
If you have car insurance through a large U.S. insurer, it’ll typically cover you for a short-term trip to the Great White North. But it’s a good idea to double-check with your insurance company before you head out on a road trip.
Even if your insurance coverage is valid in Canada, you’ll need to make sure that you meet the local provincial or territorial mandatory minimums. Many insurance policies include “out-of-state” coverage, which provides the minimum amounts and type of insurance required by the province or territory. When traveling, carry a copy of your insurance and registration in case law enforcement asks you to provide proof.
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Parts of a U.S. car insurance policy
A U.S. car insurance policy can have different coverages, depending on the type of car insurance you have. While liability-only coverage is required, others are optional, such as gap insurance. Full-coverage insurance isn’t generally required, but if you’re looking for more protection for you and your vehicle, it’s a good policy to purchase that often includes several coverage options in addition to liability.
Liability coverage
Every U.S. state (including Washington, D.C.) except New Hampshire requires liability insurance. It covers damages related to bodily injury, death, and property damage to the other driver if you cause a car accident.
Collision coverage
Collision insurance provides coverage for your vehicle in an at-fault accident with another vehicle or stationary object, like a tree or light pole. It also covers rollover accidents and pothole damage.
Comprehensive coverage
Another optional insurance, comprehensive insurance protects your vehicle against non-collision events, such theft, vandalism, fire, severe weather, falling objects, and striking an animal.
Optional coverages
Other examples of additional coverage include roadside assistance insurance, rental car reimbursement, gap insurance, and accident forgiveness coverage.
North American insurance agreements
The U.S. and Canada share reciprocal laws for auto insurance. As a result, your U.S. insurance policy will typically cover you when you drive in Canada. Both countries also have commercial reciprocity laws, which outline a similar agreement for commercial drivers.[4]
Before hitting the road, it’s always a good idea to check in with your insurance company to ensure you have the coverage you need before crossing an international border.
Companies that provide car insurance in Canada
Most national and regional car insurance companies provide car insurance coverage for U.S. drivers crossing the border into Canada. Here are five car insurers that provide coverage in Canada to consider.
State Farm
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
4.1
Best choiceBased on 11,179 verified guest 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
Reviews (6,014)
Cassaundra
June 3, 2025
Verified Review
State Farm has turned out to be the best insurance for me. It covers everything I need for less than all the companies I have spoken to.
State Farm has turned out to be the best insurance for me. It covers everything I need for less than all the companies I have spoken to.
Shawna
May 30, 2025
Verified Review
No
Started good, then raised the rates.
James
May 29, 2025
Verified Review
Excellent
I've been with them for over 30 years. However, the cost has tripled in the last 5 years.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
842NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.78A.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 auto insurer in the U.S. by market share and has been in business for more than 100 years. In addition to a range of insurance coverages, it also offers banking and investment products. If you’re planning a road trip to Canada, State Farm’s optional emergency roadside assistance and travel expense coverage might come in handy.
Pros
Above-average rating in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study
Above-average rating in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
Many available coverages
Cons
No live chat
Gap insurance not readily available, unless customer originates a loan through State Farm Bank
Expensive for drivers with bad credit
USAA
| User Reviews | 4.9 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 9.4 /10 |
4.9
Best choiceBased on 2,086 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about USAA
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
How drivers feel about USAA
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Reviews (1,188)
Cornelius
June 2, 2025
Verified Review
Good
Good, but expensive.
Alberta
May 28, 2025
Verified Review
Excellent
It is good, just looking for a cheaper rate.
Tracey
May 28, 2025
Verified Review
USAA Auto Insurance Review
Very high priced, but good coverage.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
880NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.35A.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
The United Services Automobile Association (USAA) provides coverage to active-duty military members, veterans, and their family members. If you need to file a claim while visiting Canada, USAA ranks among the top companies when it comes to customer service and claims satisfaction ratings. USAA also provides 24/7 roadside assistance in Canada.
Pros
High ratings in the J.D. Power 2024 national customer and claims satisfaction studies
24/7 roadside assistance
Highly rated mobile app allows for easy claims management
Cons
Only available to members of the military community
No 24/7 customer service
If you decide to rent a vehicle in Canada, your USAA policy doesn’t cover you for liability and physical damage
Allstate
| User Reviews | 3.9 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 8.9 /10 |
3.9
A solid optionBased on 6,801 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Allstate
Drivers appreciate the friendly customer service and efficient claims processing, but many find the rates too high and experience unexpected price increases. Some also report poor communication from agents.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Accident forgiveness
Wide availability
Cheap rates
How drivers feel about Allstate
Drivers appreciate the friendly customer service and efficient claims processing, but many find the rates too high and experience unexpected price increases. Some also report poor communication from agents.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Accident forgiveness
Wide availability
Cheap rates
Reviews (3,636)
Sharice
June 1, 2025
Verified Review
Moving on
They are too expensive and I am not seeing discounts from their drive program.
Leroy
May 30, 2025
Verified Review
True facts!
Too expensive, too many rate hikes, and there's always a rate increase! Seems like every six months.
Donny
May 28, 2025
Verified Review
I'd never deal with them again.
Rates are too high for state-required insurance.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
833NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.94A.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
Allstate offers a range of insurance products, including auto, property, life, business, and identity theft coverage. You can choose from a wide selection of coverage options, like roadside assistance and rental reimbursement coverage, which may come in handy if you’re traveling to Canada.
Pros
24/7 claims support
Roadside assistance coverage available in Canada
Quotes available online
Cons
Below-average rating in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
Availability of insurance features and discounts vary between states
Below-average rating in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study
Auto-Owners
| User Reviews | 3.9 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 8.5 /10 |
3.9
A solid optionBased on 198 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Auto-Owners
Customers appreciate the friendly service and quick claims process but dislike the constant rate increases and perceived inflexibility in pricing.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Cheap rates
Senior drivers
Ample discounts
How drivers feel about Auto-Owners
Customers appreciate the friendly service and quick claims process but dislike the constant rate increases and perceived inflexibility in pricing.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Cheap rates
Senior drivers
Ample discounts
Reviews (118)
Ann
June 1, 2025
Verified Review
Satisfaction
I like paying all at one time.
Jason
May 8, 2025
Verified Review
Stay away from them if you have children. My policy jumped $540 a month, and they will not exclude my daughter from the policy even though she doesn't drive my truck.
Stay away from them if you have children. My policy jumped $540 a month, and they will not exclude my daughter from the policy even though she doesn't drive my truck.
Lois
April 20, 2025
Verified Review
Contract
I signed a contract for one price after the agent inspected my house. However, a few months later, another man came out and raised the premium. The contract didn't seem to mean a thing!
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
837NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.5A.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
Auto-Owners is available to drivers in 26 U.S. states and extends coverage when driving in Canada. The company’s roadside assistance, Road Trouble Service, is available in Canada, which could come in handy if you lock your keys in your car or run out of gas.
Pros
24/7 access to Road Trouble Service
Many available discounts
Accident forgiveness insurance available
Cons
Quotes not available online
Available in only 26 states
Below-average rating in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
Commonwealth Insurance
| User Reviews | 3.5 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 5.5 /10 |
3.5
A solid optionBased on 30 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Commonwealth Casualty
Drivers appreciate the initial affordability and courteous service but dislike the unexpected rate increases and limited online resources.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Vanishing deductible
Arizona, Ohio, and Texas drivers
Bundling discounts
How drivers feel about Commonwealth Casualty
Drivers appreciate the initial affordability and courteous service but dislike the unexpected rate increases and limited online resources.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Vanishing deductible
Arizona, Ohio, and Texas drivers
Bundling discounts
Reviews (17)
Karen
September 5, 2024
Verified Review
Constant Price Increase
Your prices were fabulous, but then you started increasing them. Can you offer me a better price than what you're giving me now?
Greg
July 25, 2024
Verified Review
Decent, Well-Priced Policy
It's better than average.
Raymundo
July 15, 2024
Verified Review
Lackluster Experience
My rates have increased by $200 upon renewal with them. I have had no tickets or accidents, yet the rates went up.
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.
0A.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).
NRWhy we picked this company
Founded in 2010, Commonwealth Insurance is a newer U.S. insurance company offering auto, homeowners, renters, and roadside assistance coverage in Arizona, Ohio, and Texas. If you’re planning a Canadian road trip, you can purchase roadside assistance as an optional form of coverage. It can help if you get a flat tire, need a tow, or lock yourself out of your car.
Pros
Quotes available online
Partners with many charities
Many available coverages
Cons
Can’t file a claim online
Limited information on website
Available in only three states
To choose the best U.S. car insurance companies for people driving in Canada, we first looked at insurers that extend their U.S. coverage to Canada. We also considered each company’s coverage options, discounts, customer and claims satisfaction ratings, and financial strength.
Is state-minimum coverage enough to drive in Canada?
U.S. state-minimum coverage is typically not enough to drive in Canada since most provinces and territories have higher coverage requirements than U.S. states. So if you only carry your state’s minimum liability insurance, you may have to raise your coverage before your trip. Coverage requirements also vary widely across Canadian provinces and territories.
For example, drivers in British Columbia have to carry up to $200,000 in vehicle liability, $200,000 in third-party liability, and $1 million in underinsured motorist coverage and “inverse liability” coverage. But in Yukon, drivers only need $200,000 in third-party liability and accident benefits.
Important Information
Before crossing the border, it’s important to check mandatory insurance coverage requirements for each province and territory you plan to visit. Then, double-check that your U.S. insurance policy meets the requirements. Without enough coverage, you could face legal issues, penalties, or high out-of-pocket expenses after an accident.
Driving a rental car in Canada
If you plan to drive a rental car in Canada, your U.S. car insurance may provide some coverage. But before you travel, it’s important to confirm coverage details, including limitations, to make sure you meet all applicable coverage laws while driving in Canada.
Purchasing rental car insurance from the rental agency may be worth it, especially if your U.S. policy only offers liability insurance or you’re unsure about protection in Canada. With a rental car policy, you won’t typically have to pay for damage from collision, vandalism, or theft.
If you have an accident while driving in Canada
If you’re in an accident while driving in Canada, follow the same steps you would if you got into an accident in the U.S.
1. Call emergency services
If someone is hurt, call emergency services as soon as possible. Emergency service numbers may be different in each province or territory, so keep a list of important numbers handy.
2. Assess the damage
Take photos or videos of the vehicles. Document any important details of the accident, such as weather conditions, location, and time.
3. Get the other drivers’ information
This includes their name, address, license plate, and insurance information.
4. Contact the police
Get in touch with the local law enforcement to file a police report. In some cases, they may come out to the scene of the accident, or you may be able to file a report afterward. Check local province and territory laws for more information.
5. Contact your insurance company or agent
Start the claims process by calling your insurance company as soon as possible. Let them know you were involved in an accident while driving in Canada.
Documents you’ll need to drive in Canada
Whether you’re on a short trip or driving from coast to coast, you’ll need the following documents to drive in Canada:
Proof of citizenship: To enter Canada, you’ll need a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card.
Valid driver’s license: Your U.S. driver’s license is valid while driving in Canada as long it’s not expired.[5]
Proof of insurance: Canada requires insurance for all drivers. Be sure to have your U.S. insurance card, plus documentation of any additional policies you have for driving in Canada.
Vehicle registration: Be sure your U.S. registration paperwork is up to date and in the vehicle. If you stay for longer than six months, you may also need to register your car in Canada.
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When to buy a Canadian car insurance policy
You don’t need to buy a Canadian car insurance policy if you’re just visiting the country — even if the trip is a couple of months long. But if you plan to stay longer or move to Canada, you’ll likely need a Canadian car insurance policy and to register your car as a temporary import. Insurance is mandatory in all of Canada, but coverage laws vary by province and territory.
Where you buy coverage from may also depend on local laws. For example, British Columbia requires drivers to buy mandatory insurance from the government insurer, but drivers can purchase extra coverage from private insurers. In Quebec, you’ll need to purchase bodily liability insurance from the government insurer and property damage coverage privately.
Does U.S. car insurance work in Canada FAQs
If you still have questions about whether your U.S. car insurance policy will work in Canada, check out the following answers to some commonly asked questions.
How long can you drive a U.S.-registered car in Canada?
If you’re just visiting Canada for the weekend or even taking a longer road trip, you can likely drive a U.S.-registered car without any issues. But if you’re staying in Canada for longer than three months, you’ll need to declare your vehicle as a temporary import and license your vehicle in Canada.
Do you need insurance to cross the Canadian border?
Yes. You need auto insurance to cross the Canadian border. In Canada, it’s illegal to drive without insurance, and coverage requirements vary from the U.S.
Before your trip, be sure you understand what type of coverage you’ll need. It’s also a good idea to contact your U.S. insurer to see if your existing coverage can protect you during your trip.
Will a pay-per-mile policy cover you in Canada?
A U.S. pay-per-mile car insurance policy allows drivers to pay for coverage based on how much they drive. But it may not offer coverage in Canada. Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage.
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Sources
- U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs. "Driving and Road Safety Abroad."
- Insurance Bureau of Canada. "Mandatory auto insurance requirements."
- OTT Legal. "Driving without Insurance."
- American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. "Foreign Driver License Reciprocity Best Practices."
- USA.gov. "International driver’s license for U.S. citizens."
)
Jessica Martel
Jessica is a freelance writer, professional researcher, and mother of two rambunctious little boys. She specializes in personal finance, women and money, and financial literacy. Jessica is fascinated by the psychology of money and what drives people to make important financial decisions. She holds a Masters of Science degree in Cognitive Research Psychology.
Jessica has been a contributor at Insurify since July 2023.
Edited bySarah Archambault
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.
Featured in
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.