A 5-step guide to car insurance for international drivers with foreign licenses

This isn’t a mandatory step—in fact, many auto insurers don’t require you to have a U.S. driver’s license to cover you. However, if you’re a current resident and you’re interested in getting a license, there are a few paths you can take. First, find the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for your state. The DMV handles driver’s licenses, plates, and vehicle titles, so they’re an excellent resource.

14 states may grant you a driver’s license regardless of your citizenship status:

• California

• Colorado

• Connecticut

• Delaware

• Hawaii

• Illinois

• Maryland

• New Mexico

• Nevada

• New York

• Oregon

• Utah

• Vermont

• Washington

If you don’t live in one of these states, don’t worry—you still have options. If you entered the country before your 16th birthday and have lived here consistently since then, you may qualify to apply for a driver’s license under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program.

Some states will also allow you to get a driver’s license once you establish residency. You may be able to apply for a driver’s license if you meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Your child goes to public school in the state

• You’ve lived in the state for more than 30 days

• You’re employed by the state

If you’re a short-term visitor, you can apply for an international driving permit (IDP) in your home country before traveling to the U.S. This permit proves you’re licensed to drive in your home country.

If you drive a vehicle, you need auto insurance in all states except New Hampshire and Virginia. And in Virginia, you need to pay an uninsured motorist fee if you choose to drive without insurance. Every state has its own minimum requirements for the types and amounts its residents need to carry. For example, one state might have a minimum of $15,000 for bodily injury liability coverage, while its neighboring state requires a minimum of $25,000 for the same coverage.

Check out your state’s requirements to help you make your decision. And no matter your circumstances, be sure you understand the serious risks of driving without auto insurance.

Once you meet your state’s minimum requirements, there are many coverage options you may want to add to your policy, from bodily injury to comprehensive and collision coverage. Your circumstances and financial situation will help dictate which coverages make the most sense for you.

In general, if you own or routinely drive a vehicle, consider purchasing:

• Bodily injury liability

• Property damage liability

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist protection

Don’t forget to research car insurance discounts that may apply to you. For example, you could qualify for discounts simply by taking a defensive driving course or owning multiple vehicles. Check with your agent to discuss discounts that could help ensure you get the most value out of your policy.

If you acquire a U.S. driver’s license, contact your insurance agent to see if there’s anything you can do to update your policy and potentially reduce your policy rates.

We have decades of experience helping drivers new to the United States. Our customer service team, including Spanish-speaking representatives, is available 24/7 if you have questions. Just give us a call at 888-344-4357.

This guide can help you get started, but we recognize there’s a lot more to consider when it comes to purchasing auto insurance.

From roadside breakdowns to poor timing on Mother Nature's part—like hitting a deer—be sure you're prepared.