Visitors to the United States usually want to tour the countryside, visit towns, take road trips and explore all that our scenic country has to offer. Sometimes, visitors come for business and driving their own car may make things simpler. Regardless of the situation, if they drive an automobile, visitors need to understand and follow state guidelines by having proper licensing and car insurance.

A logical question is whether they can get insurance with a non-citizen license. The good news is; it is possible, here is what needs to take place in order to legally drive a motor car in the US.

First, visitors will need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). These permits are available through the visitor’s country of citizenship. The permits are accepted in 150 countries around the world. The permits are practical and convenient in many areas since they contain vital pieces of information such as name, photo and driver information. They are usually good for 12 months from the date of issue and should be presented along with a valid driver’s license and a passport when requested by law enforcement.

Second, drivers need to have valid insurance when operating a vehicle on United States roads and highways. There are a few paths to getting insurance with an IDP. If the visit to the country is short term, either business or pleasure, insurance can be obtained from a car rental company. For those who plan to stay longer, and perhaps become legal residents; students or those working on work visas, automobile insurance agencies are the way to go.

Additionally, an independent agent who works with multiple insurance agencies can be a good option. Independent agents can do the shopping for you, offering you more than one alternative without you having to call multiple companies on your own.

Regardless of your final choice to purchase insurance, you want to make sure you have the right type and amount of coverage. Make sure you inquire about the following areas of coverage:

 

Personal Accident Insurance– This will cover you and your passenger for medical expenses in case you have an accident.

 

Supplemental Liability Insurance – Consider an umbrella policy, and you can then do with the minimum required by the car rental company.

 

Collision Damage Waiver – This is offered by most car rental companies as well.

 

Personal Effects Coverage – Check with your homeowners’ insurance policy at home to see if you have this coverage during a trip, otherwise you may want to consider adding this to a temporary policy while renting your car.

 

Do consider that not all insurance companies will sell insurance to those who do not have a valid local driver’s license. Also, keep in mind that car insurance with an International Driving Permit tends to be more expensive relative to those seeking insurance with a US driver’s license. If you plan to stay for an extended period of time, consider getting a local driver’s license.

Most states will allow you to apply for a local driver’s license the same way a US citizen would apply, however, be prepared to provide additional documentation. Typically, states will accept one or a combination of the following documents: An Employment Authorization Card (I-766), a Permanent Resident Card (I-551) or an Arrival/Departure Card (I-94).

 

Other options you may consider to drive a car legally while visiting the United States.

 

When visiting family or friends, you may have access to a borrowed vehicle during your trip. Some insurance companies will allow the policyholder to get coverage for a visitor for a short period of time. The policyholder will need to add the visitor to the list of covered drivers under a short-term visitor provision of the policy.

Some credit card companies may offer coverage for the trip if you make travel arrangements and pay for them using their card.

Some motor club memberships also offer coverage in foreign territories. Your home country insurance policy may also offer coverage. If you’re traveling for business purposes, your employer may include car insurance during your business trip.

To learn more about foreign license insurance or additional insurance options, contact our team at ProtectiveAgency.com or call (877) 739-9367. Our licensed insurance agents will be happy to answer any questions you have.