New Immigrants and International Drivers: Getting Insured Fast
Quick start: You can usually buy a policy with a valid foreign license or an International Driving Permit while you work on a state license. Prices vary by state and by how much history you can document, so bring strong proof and shop around.
What to bring when you’re new in the U.S.
- Passport and visa page
- Most recent I-94 arrival record
- Foreign driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (if available)
- Proof of U.S. address such as lease or utility bill
- Social Security number if you have one, or a note that you do not have one
- Any driving record or “letter of experience” from your previous insurer
Can I buy car insurance with a foreign license?
Many major insurers write policies for newcomers who hold a valid foreign license or an International Driving Permit while they settle in. Acceptance and pricing depend on the state and the company. For example, State Farm explains that insurance with an international license may be possible for the short term, although some carriers require a state license before writing or renewing coverage. Progressive publishes similar guidance for international drivers and visitors about using a home-country license or an IDP to get started.
Why this matters: if one company declines, another may accept you. Compare at least three quotes and ask each carrier whether they can credit your safe driving history from abroad. [ref]
What is an International Driving Permit?
An IDP is an official translation of your home-country license. It is not a license by itself, but it helps U.S. authorities and insurers read your information clearly. Universities and motor clubs describe it as a translation booklet recognized under UN road conventions. In practice, some states or companies ask for it, and others accept a readable foreign license without one. [ref]
Tip: If your license is not in English, bring an IDP or a certified translation to avoid delays.
Which companies are newcomer-friendly?
Insurer rules change by state, but market guides and insurer pages frequently note options like Progressive, GEICO, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and Bristol West for foreign-licensed drivers. Availability varies, so treat any list as a starting point and verify in your ZIP code. [ref]
Progressive
Publishes guidance for international drivers and visitors. Ask about credit for prior experience.
State Farm
Notes that foreign licenses can work short term, but some states or situations require a U.S. license.
Liberty Mutual
Advises non-U.S. citizens that coverage is required in most states and encourages checking state rules.
Always confirm current availability and documents during your quote call. [ref]
Documents and proof that help you save
Insurers price risk partly on how much they can verify. Bring documents that establish identity, legal presence, and residence, plus proof of prior safe driving:
- Identity and lawful presence: passport with visa, I-94, and your status document such as I-20 or DS-2019 for students or an I-551 for permanent residents. State DMV checklists show these as common requirements. [ref]
- Address proof: lease, utility bill, bank statement, or school letter.
- Driving record: a letter of experience from your previous insurer that shows start date, end date, claims, and violations can help some U.S. carriers price you better.
- Translation: IDP or certified translation if your license is not in English. [ref]
How fast can I get covered?
If you already have a foreign license and an address, same-day coverage is common once you pick a plan and make payment. If you do not plan to drive yet but need to protect a parked car you own, some insurers can write comprehensive-only policies or allow you to list a different primary driver while you work toward your state license. Policies and availability vary, so ask the agent to outline options in your state. [ref]
One picture of the journey
A compact car rests along a clean neighborhood curb as the sun dips low. The warm light reflects on the body panels and windshield, the kind of calm moment you notice after a long day of errands and paperwork.
Coverage types you will hear about
Liability
Pays others if you cause injuries or property damage. Required in almost every state. Start here, then add more.
Collision and Comprehensive
Collision pays to fix your car after a crash. Comprehensive handles theft, fire, hail, and many non-crash losses.
If you are financing the vehicle, your lender will usually require collision and comprehensive. When you rent, the rental counter offers coverage that may be wise if you do not yet carry a personal policy. [ref]
Minimums and add-ons
| Feature | Why it matters for newcomers |
|---|---|
| State minimum liability | Legal to drive, but limits can be low. Consider higher limits once you can. |
| Uninsured motorist | Helps if the other driver lacks insurance. Common add-on in many states. |
| Medical payments or PIP | Pays medical costs regardless of fault in some states. |
| Roadside and rental | Helpful while you are still learning local systems and repair shops. |
Smart ways to reduce the first bill
- Bundle renters insurance. Many carriers offer a discount when you add a small renters policy to protect your belongings.
- Usage-based programs. If you drive limited miles or very carefully, telematics programs can discount renewals. USAA and others have mileage or behavior based options that may expand by state. [ref]
- Choose a higher deductible. If you can afford to pay more out of pocket for a claim, your monthly cost usually drops.
- Ask about experience credit. Provide your prior insurer letter and any proof of license tenure.
When you must switch to a state license
Most states expect new residents to obtain a state driver’s license within a set period. Insurers often align with that timeline. Ask your insurer if they require a state license by your first renewal to keep your discount or to remain eligible for the policy. To prepare, review your DMV’s checklist for non-U.S. citizens and schedule testing early if needed. [ref]
Step by step: from day one to your first renewal
- Get quotes with your foreign license and IDP or certified translation if needed. Bring your address proof and I-94.
- Decide on coverage based on vehicle value and lender requirements. If you do not own a car, consider non-owner liability to stay legal when you borrow or rent.
- Enroll in a telematics program if offered and you are a careful, low-mileage driver.
- Book your DMV appointments for permit and road test. Bring original immigration documents. [ref]
- At renewal, update your policy with your new state license to unlock better pricing tiers.
Helpful resources
- Progressive guide for international drivers explains how visitors and newcomers can use a home-country license or an IDP while shopping.
Read Progressive’s page. [ref]
Keep learning with these related guides
- If you only need proof immediately, read Instant auto insurance ID cards to understand how fast digital cards arrive.
- Unsure how much coverage to carry as you build credit and history? Liability vs full coverage break even walks through the math.
- Paying all at once might cut fees. See Pay in full vs monthly auto insurance.
- If you have no car yet and only borrow or rent, Non owner vs temporary vs instant explains when a non-owner policy fits.
Bottom line
You can usually start coverage quickly with a valid foreign license and the right documents. Bring strong proof, compare at least three quotes, and plan to switch to a state license by your first renewal. That path helps you stay legal, protect your car, and lower your price as your U.S. driving history grows.