Auto Insurance For Foreign Drivers In The U.S.

Every motorist in the U.S. requires insurance coverage, at least liability coverage, irrespective of their nationalities. However, foreign drivers have different coverage needs from U.S. residents or citizens.

Your Insurance Options

There are two main ways you can buy coverage.

Rental Car Company Option

Rental car companies sell auto insurance coverage to their customers. You can buy coverage from the rental car company if you plan to use a rental car while in the country. Many people take this route if they only plan to be in the U.S. for a short time. Buying coverage from a rental car company is usually less of a hassle than dealing with an auto insurance company. It may also be cheaper in the short term.

Insurance Company Option

You can also buy coverage from an auto insurance company just like other Americans do. This option is ideal if you plan to be in the U.S. for a long time. For one, buying coverage from an insurance company may be slightly cheaper than buying coverage from the rental company. Secondly, many people buy or lease cars if they plan to be in the U.S. for a long time since long-term rental might be expensive. You need your own coverage when you lease or buy a car.

The Requirements

Auto insurance companies will only sell you coverage if you have the legal authority to drive in the country. Here are the main things you may need to drive in the U.S.

A Driving License

Most countries require all drivers to have a driver's license. Therefore, you should not even think about driving in the U.S. if you don't have a driver's license either from the US or from your home country. A U.S. driving license allows you to buy coverage and drive in the country. If you don't have a U.S. license, you should have a license from your home country to enable you to get the international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The international driving permit is permission to drive in another country other than yours. Many countries, including the US, might not accept foreign driving licenses but accept the international driving license. Therefore, you may need both your country's driving license plus the international driving license to buy auto insurance and drive in the U.S.

Buying auto insurance in the U.S. might be a hassle for those who are not used to it. Consult an auto insurance agent to help you through the process.