How Do International Drivers Get US Car Insurance?
In a Nutshell: International drivers face higher premiums due to no US driving history. Expect to pay 20–50% more than a comparable US driver. Options include standard insurers (Geico, State Farm accept foreign licenses in most states), non-owner policies for occasional drivers, or specialized visitor insurance for short trips. Building US history takes 6–12 months but steadily lowers rates.
Options by Visitor Type
| Driver Type | Best Insurance Option | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist (1–4 weeks) | Rental company coverage or credit card | $15–$30/day for rental |
| Tourist (1–6 months) | Foreign visitor policy (Berkely, Trawick) | $200–$500 for 6 months |
| Student (F-1 visa) | Standard insurer with foreign license | $1,500–$3,000/year |
| Temporary worker (H-1B, L-1) | Standard insurer with foreign license | $1,500–$3,500/year |
| New immigrant | Standard insurer, no US history | $2,000–$4,000/year first year |
| International student | University group plan or standard | $1,800–$3,200/year |
US Insurers That Accept Foreign Licenses
| Insurer | Accepts Foreign License? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | ✅ Yes | Valid foreign license + passport |
| State Farm | ✅ Yes | Valid foreign license + IDP recommended |
| Progressive | ⚠️ Sometimes | Depends on state and license type |
| Allstate | ✅ Yes | Valid foreign license + insurance history proof |
| USAA | ⚠️ Only for military | Must have military connection |
If you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), most insurers will accept it alongside your foreign license. An IDP is not a standalone license — it translates your foreign license.
Non-Owner Policy Option
If you don't own a car but drive rentals or borrow cars:
| Coverage Type | Annual Cost | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Non-owner liability | $200–$500 | Liability when driving borrowed or rented cars |
| Non-owner with comp/collision | $300–$700 | Adds physical damage coverage for rentals |
| Non-owner with medical | $400–$800 | Includes MedPay or PIP |
Non-owner policies are great for international students or temporary workers who occasionally drive but don't own a vehicle. They also help you build a US insurance history.
Building US Driving History
| Time in US | Expected Premium Level | Compared to US Driver |
|---|---|---|
| First 3 months | Very high | +50–100% |
| 6–12 months | High | +30–50% |
| 1–2 years | Moderate | +15–25% |
| 3+ years | Near standard | +5–10% |
| 5+ years with clean record | Standard | Same as US driver |
Tips for Building History
- Get a US driver's license ASAP — Each state has different timelines, but a US license helps
- Ask about foreign driving credit — Some insurers (Geico, State Farm) give credit for foreign experience if you bring proof
- Maintain continuous coverage — Any lapse resets progress
- Start with a non-owner policy — Cheaper way to build history
- Keep your first policy for at least 6 months — Short policies don't build history well
International Driving Permit (IDP)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What it is | Translation of your foreign license |
| Where to get | AAA or AATA (US approved issuers for foreign visitors) |
| Cost | $15–$25 |
| Valid for | 1 year from date of issue |
| Who needs it | Required in some states; recommended everywhere |
The IDP is not required in all states, but it's strongly recommended. It makes it easier for police and rental agencies to verify your driving credentials.
Key Takeaways
- International drivers pay 20–50% more initially due to no US history
- Geico and State Farm are most accepting of foreign licenses
- Short-term visitors: use rental company coverage or visitor-specific policies
- Non-owner policies ($200–$500/year) help build US driving history
- Get a US driver's license as soon as you're eligible
- Foreign driving history may transfer — ask your insurer about it
- Rates drop significantly after 1–3 years of claim-free US driving
Last updated: July 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about car insurance for international drivers in the US. State laws, insurer policies, and visa requirements vary. Always verify with your specific insurer and state DMV.