120+ more*Quotes generated for Insurify users within the last 10 days. Last updated on July 31, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users within the last 10 days. Last updated on July 31, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
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Expat auto insurance can provide coverage for foreign drivers living in the United States or Americans living abroad. Coverage options differ for each group. Foreign nationals without a U.S driving record or insurance history may pay higher rates because insurers have less information to assess their risk.[1]
American expats may need to maintain U.S. coverage if they’re leaving a vehicle behind. They’ll generally need coverage that meets the requirements of the country where they’ll be driving, since their U.S. policy won’t cover them overseas.
Whether you’re applying for coverage with a foreign license or building a U.S. driving record, it’s important to understand your options. The same applies if you’re figuring out how to insure a vehicle while living overseas. Doing so can help you stay protected and avoid coverage gaps.
Insurers typically classify foreign drivers without a U.S. driving record as new drivers, and these drivers pay an average of $180 per month for auto insurance.
Allstate, Progressive, and State Farm are among the top insurers that offer car insurance for foreign drivers.
Americans living abroad typically need international coverage through a specialty broker or storage coverage for their vehicle remaining in the U.S.
Foreign nationals who live in the United States long-term and U.S. citizens living abroad often need expat car insurance to drive legally.
Where you live, not your citizenship status, determines your eligibility for U.S auto insurance. Foreign nationals who meet state and insurer requirements can typically buy non-citizen car insurance.
Expatriates who come to the U.S. usually do so for educational, personal, or professional reasons. This includes people on H-1B, L-1, O-1, F-1, J-1, H-4, J-2, and L-2 visas, as well as green card holders and DACA recipients. Many of these drivers may have years of driving experience in their home countries but no U.S. driving history.
U.S. citizens living abroad, whether temporarily or permanently, may also need car insurance. This can include active-duty military members, Foreign Service employees, professionals on long-term work assignments, digital nomads, and retirees who settle overseas.
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Most expats will need a few basic documents to get foreign driver’s car insurance in the U.S. Insurance companies typically require a valid driver’s license, passport, proof of address, proof of current insurance, and documents showing your immigration or visa status. You’ll also need your vehicle registration if you own or lease a vehicle.[2]
Most insurers will ask for a Social Security number (SSN) when you apply for a car insurance policy. You can usually get coverage without an SSN, but your insurance premiums may be higher without proof of credit history.
While you can get car insurance without a U.S. driving history, a letter of experience from your previous insurer abroad may be helpful. The letter shows how long you’ve been insured and your claims history. You can usually request it by contacting your insurer and asking for a coverage history summary on company letterhead.
Documentation requirements and insurance considerations vary by visa type and immigration status. The table below outlines common documents insurers may require and factors that may affect coverage eligibility or pricing.[3] [4] [5]
Visa Cohort | Common Insurance Documents | Insurance Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| H-1B / L-1 / O-1 (work visas) |
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| F-1 (students) |
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| J-1 (exchange visitor) |
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| H-4 / J-2 / L-2 (trailing spouse) |
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| Green card holders |
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| DACA recipients |
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Even if you’ve been driving safely for years in another country, many U.S. insurers treat you like a new driver when you first apply for car insurance coverage. That’s because insurers use your driving record to predict risk. Without your history, it’s harder to assess how likely you are to file a claim.
The result is usually higher premiums. Drivers with a verifiable clean driving record pay an average of $98 per month for liability insurance and $186 for full coverage, according to Insurify data. International driver car insurance for a new driver runs about $124 per month for liability coverage and $236 per month for full coverage.
After six to 12 months of continuous coverage and safe driving, insurers will likely see you as a lower-risk driver, which can lead to better rates at your next policy renewal.
Some insurers may consider international driving experience. For example, some drivers report companies like Allstate and Progressive credit foreign licensing or insurance history. But acceptance varies by state and insurer.
Getting car insurance in the U.S. as a foreign driver can be a bit confusing at first. Some companies are more flexible with international licenses than others. While prices and rules vary by state, a few major insurers tend to be more accessible for newcomers and expats getting their first U.S. auto insurance policy.
The table below compares the best insurers for foreign drivers, along with their average full-coverage rates and quoting options.
Company | Average Monthly Full-Coverage Rate | Foreign License Accepted | Quoting Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $105 | Varies by state, resident country, and length of stay in the U.S. |
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| Progressive | $136 | Varies by state, resident country, and length of stay in the U.S. |
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| Liberty Mutual | $206 | Varies by state, resident country, and length of stay in the U.S. |
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| Allstate | $146 | Varies by state, resident country, and length of stay in the U.S. |
|
| 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 |
| 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. | $52/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. | $105/mo |
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
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.
State Farm is a good fit if you’re new to the U.S. and want someone to walk you through the car insurance process. Its local agents can help you determine which documents you need. Your agent can also show you how to set up your first policy to meet your needs and your state’s insurance requirements.
Helpful local agents in most areas
Above-average J.D. Power customer service ratings
Widely available across the U.S.
Discount availability varies by state
Online quotes may not be available
Limited information about accepting foreign driving history
| 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. | $79/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. | $136/mo |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
Progressive is often a go-to for international drivers because you can usually get a quote online quickly. Depending on your state, Progressive will accept a foreign license or an IDP. But it won’t consider an international driving record as proof of driving history.
Above-average J.D. Power insurance digital experience rating
Fast and easy online quote process
Broad range of available discounts
Rates typically higher without U.S. driving history
Fewer in-person support options
Below-average claims satisfaction rating
| 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. | 8.4 /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. | $128/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. | $206/mo |
Liberty Mutual's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.6 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.5 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.4 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.0 | 2.9 |
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.
Liberty Mutual gives foreign nationals new to the U.S. the resources they need to ensure they’re driving legally. You can also customize your policy with add-ons like gap insurance, rental car reimbursement, OEM parts, and new-car replacement coverage.
Liberty Mutual also offers a deductible fund, which can help lower your out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.
Offers educational resources for non-U.S. citizens
Above-average claims satisfaction rating from J.D. Power
Offers additional incentives for teachers
Rates may be higher than some competitors
Customer satisfaction varies by region
Only available through independent agents or online
| User Reviews | 3.8 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| 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. | $72/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. | $146/mo |
Allstate's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.8 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.9 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.8 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.7 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.3 | 2.9 |
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.
Rideshare driving is a common source of income for many foreign-born workers in the U.S. Allstate offers rideshare insurance to bridge coverage gaps that often exist between personal auto insurance and transportation network company (TNC) policies. The company also offers extended vehicle protection for cars with expiring manufacturer warranties.
Highly rated mobile app
Offers accident forgiveness
Above-average J.D. Power insurance shopping rating
Rideshare coverage not available in all states
Poor Trustpilot rating
Below-average claims satisfaction rating
The cost of international driver car insurance varies widely by state and insurance company. The table below shows average premiums for foreign drivers in the U.S., according to Insurify data.
Currently, Country Financial offers the cheapest rates, at $58 per month, according to Insurify data.
7+ years experience in data analysis
Ph.D. in Computational Biology
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only |
|---|---|
| Country Financial | $58 |
| USAA | $95 |
| Auto-Owners | $99 |
| State Farm | $106 |
| Erie | $125 |
| Root | $131 |
| GEICO | $142 |
| Allstate | $152 |
| The General | $152 |
| American Family | $155 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $157 |
| Dairyland | $161 |
| GAINSCO | $163 |
| Mile Auto | $168 |
| Mercury | $170 |
| Clearcover | $176 |
| Bristol West | $178 |
| National General | $185 |
| Direct Auto | $186 |
| Elephant | $186 |
| Safeco | $188 |
| Liberty Mutual | $214 |
| Travelers | $222 |
| Plymouth Rock | $224 |
| Farmers | $227 |
| Anchor | $228 |
| 21st Century | $228 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $248 |
| Chubb | $264 |
| Shelter | $279 |
| The Hartford | $362 |
| State Auto | $445 |
| Amica | $448 |
| CSAA | $465 |
You can usually drive with a foreign license for up to one year in the U.S.[6] Some states also require an IDP, which translates your personal information into English and other languages. If you need an IDP, you’ll have to get it in your home country before you come to the U.S.
Once you establish residency, most states require you to obtain a state driver’s license within a set period, often between 30 and 90 days.
For example, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles gives you 30 days to get your license. The California Department of Motor Vehicles gives you 10 days. The Texas Department of Public Safety allows 90 days to obtain a Texas driver’s license.
U.S. car insurance covers Americans in Canada, but it generally won’t cover drivers who relocate to countries such as France, Mexico, Spain, or Thailand. If you’re relocating overseas, your insurance needs will depend on your situation.
If you’re storing a U.S.-registered vehicle while abroad, you may want to keep comprehensive coverage. It protects against theft, vandalism, and damage from animals and weather while no one’s driving the car.
If you’ll be driving in your new country, you’ll typically need local coverage through an international broker that meets that country’s insurance requirements, even if you’re active-duty military or Foreign Service personnel. You can usually get temporary coverage for a rental car directly from the rental company if you’re not buying a vehicle.
Before returning from expat life overseas, ask your U.S. insurer about reinstating your liability coverage or issuing a new policy to avoid a lapse in coverage.
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Building a U.S. driving history takes time, but you have several ways to lower your rate while you wait:
Keep a clean driving record. Avoid tickets and at-fault accidents to get the cheapest rate.
Maintain continuous coverage. Insurance history factors into premiums, so avoiding coverage gaps can help keep rates low.
Raise your deductible. A higher deductible lowers your premium, but make sure you can afford the higher cost if you need to file a claim.
Compare multiple insurance quotes. Rates vary by insurer. Comparing coverage options and costs from multiple companies can help you find the best deal.
Understand your coverage options. If you’re driving an older vehicle, you may not need comprehensive and collision coverage. If you don’t have health insurance, personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage can cover your medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident.
We answered common questions foreign drivers ask about shopping for car insurance with an international license or moving to the U.S. for school or work.
Yes. Most insurers offer international driver car insurance for foreign nationals with a valid driver’s license who meet state and insurance company requirements. Eligibility rules vary by company and state.
Major insurers like Progressive and State Farm will issue policies to drivers with foreign licenses, though requirements vary. The best way to find out if an insurer accepts foreign licenses is to contact them directly for a quote.
No. Most insurance companies may ask for your SSN to verify your identity and determine rates, but it’s not always a requirement.
You can if you keep your car here in the U.S. But if you’re taking your own vehicle abroad, you’ll need to get car insurance in your new country that meets the legal requirements there.
You can usually drive in the U.S for up to one year on a foreign license. If you plan on staying longer, you’ll need to establish residency and follow the state’s legal requirements to get a U.S. driver’s license.
Yes. International students, like au pairs, can get car insurance in the U.S. They can be added to their host’s auto policy or provide their foreign driver’s license to a U.S. insurer to obtain a policy for their own vehicle.
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)
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Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years experience in insurance and personal finance editing
NPN: 20564519
Featured in
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 21630969
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 20461358
Featured in
7+ years experience in data analysis
Ph.D. in Computational Biology
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