Compare Car Insurance for International Visa Holders in the US: Rates, Discounts, & Requirements in 2024 (Top 10 Companies)
Compare car insurance companies for international visa holders in the US with State Farm, USAA, and Progressive. They stand out for comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of international drivers.
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Dani Best
Licensed Insurance Producer
Dani Best has been a licensed insurance producer for nearly 10 years. Dani began her insurance career in a sales role with State Farm in 2014. During her time in sales, she graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology from Capella University and is currently earning her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since 2014, Dani has held and maintains licenses in Life, Disability, Property, and Casualt...
Licensed Insurance Producer
UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
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Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Apr 15, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Company Facts
Average Monthly Rate For Good Drivers
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
Company Facts
Average Monthly Rate For Good Drivers
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Company Facts
Average Monthly Rate For Good Drivers
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Explore and compare car insurance companies for international visa holders in the US with State Farm, USAA, and Progressive. This article focuses on legal driving requirements and coverage options, with State Farm standing out for its comprehensive coverage tailored to the unique needs of international visa holders.
Whether coming to the United States on a work, student, or temporary visa, if you plan on driving, you will need to get car insurance. This is true whether you’re on a short vacation or planning to live here for an extended period.
Company | Rank | See Pros/Cons | Maximum Multi-Policy Discount | Maximum Low-Mileage Discount | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | State Farm | Up to 17% | Up to 15% | Many Discounts | |
#2 | USAA | Up to 10% | Up to 10% | Military Savings | |
#3 | Progressive | Up to 12% | Up to 30% | Online Convenience | |
#4 | Allstate | Up to 25% | Up to 22% | Add-on Coverages | |
#5 | AAA | Up to 10% | Up to 12% | Local Agents | |
#6 | Travelers | Up to 13% | Up to 15% | Accident Forgiveness | |
#7 | Farmers | Up to 10% | Up to 20% | Local Agents | |
#8 | Nationwide | Up to 20% | Up to 20% | Usage Discount | |
#9 | Liberty Mutual | Up to 30% | Up to 15% | Customizable Polices | |
#10 | American Family | Up to 20% | Up to 20% | Student Savings |
Even if it’s just a week, buying insurance from your rental car agency could give you peace of mind and save you thousands if something happens to the car. If you’re living in the US, not having the proper insurance could lead to you losing your driving privileges and more.
Read on to learn all about visas and car insurance in America then enter a U.S. zip code to compare quotes from many different auto insurance companies!
#1 – State Farm: Diverse Coverage Expert
State Farm emerges as the top choice for international visa holders, offering diverse coverage options and expertise.
Melanie Musson Published Insurance Expert
Pros
- Bundling policies: Offers significant discounts for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- High low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Wide coverage options: Offers various coverage options tailored for different business needs.
- Many discounts: State Farm provides various discounts, allowing customers to save up to 17% on their premiums.
- Local agents: State Farm’s widespread network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
Cons
- Limited multi-policy discount: The multi-policy discount is not as high compared to some competitors.
- Potential premium costs: Despite discounts, premiums might still be relatively higher for certain coverage levels.
Read more: State Farm Car Insurance Review
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#2 – USAA: Military Savings Leader
Pros
- Up to 10% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 10% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Military savings: USAA caters specifically to military personnel, offering exclusive discounts.
- Online convenience: USAA provides convenient online tools for policy management and claims processing.
- Excellent customer service: Known for its exceptional customer service, USAA prioritizes member satisfaction.
Cons
- Limited eligibility: USAA membership is restricted to military personnel and their families.
- Limited local presence: USAA has fewer physical branches, potentially limiting face-to-face interactions.
Read more: USAA Car Insurance Review
#3 – Progressive: Online Convenience Pioneer
Pros
- Up to 12% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 30% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Online convenience: Progressive excels in providing user-friendly online tools for policy management.
- Add-on coverages: Progressive offers a variety of customizable add-on coverages.
- Snapshot program: Progressive’s usage-based insurance program can lead to additional savings.
Cons
- Higher base premiums: Progressive’s base premiums may be comparatively higher.
- Limited local agent availability: Some customers may prefer face-to-face interactions, which Progressive might lack.
Read more: Progressive Car Insurance Review
#4 – Allstate: Comprehensive Coverage Provider
Pros
- Up to 25% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 22% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Add-on coverages: Allstate provides various add-on coverages for comprehensive protection.
- Local agents: Allstate’s extensive network of local agents ensures personalized service.
- Claim satisfaction guarantee: Allstate offers a guarantee for claim satisfaction, instilling confidence in customers.
Cons
- Higher base premiums: Allstate’s base premiums may be comparatively higher.
- Limited online tools: Allstate’s online platform may not be as advanced as some competitors.
Read more: Allstate Car Insurance Review
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#5 – AAA: Local Agents and Membership Benefits
Pros
- Up to 10% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 12% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Local agents: AAA’s extensive network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
- Membership benefits: AAA members can enjoy additional benefits beyond insurance services.
- Accident forgiveness: AAA offers accident forgiveness, preventing premium increases after the first at-fault accident.
Cons
- Limited eligibility: Some AAA benefits are exclusive to members, potentially limiting accessibility.
- Limited coverage options: AAA may have fewer coverage options compared to some competitors.
Read more: AAA Car Insurance Review
#6 – Travelers: Forgiving and Savings-Focused
Pros
- Up to 13% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 15% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Accident forgiveness: Travelers provides accident forgiveness, preventing premium increases after the first at-fault accident.
- Local agents: Travelers’ network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
- Savings programs: Travelers offers various savings programs, contributing to potential cost reductions.
Cons
- Limited online tools: Travelers’ online platform may not be as advanced as some competitors.
- Regional availability: Travelers may not be as widely available in certain regions, affecting accessibility.
Read more: Travelers Car Insurance Review
#7 – Farmers: Local Agents and Diverse Coverage
Pros
- Up to 10% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 20% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Local agents: Farmers’ extensive network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
- Customizable policies: Farmers provides customizable policies to meet various needs.
- Add-on coverages: Farmers offers a range of add-on coverages for enhanced protection.
Cons
- Higher base premiums: Farmers’ base premiums may be comparatively higher.
- Limited online tools: Farmers’ online platform may not be as advanced as some competitors.
Read more: Farmers Car Insurance Review
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#8 – Nationwide: Usage Discount Leader
Pros
- Up to 20% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 20% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Usage discount: Nationwide stands out with its usage-based discount program.
- Comprehensive coverage: Nationwide offers a wide range of coverage options for various needs.
- Local agents: Nationwide’s network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
Cons
- Limited online tools: Nationwide’s online platform may not be as advanced as some competitors.
- Coverage limitations: Nationwide may have limitations in specific coverage areas.
#9 – Liberty Mutual: Customizable Policies and Generous Discounts
Pros
- Up to 30% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 15% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Customizable policies: Liberty Mutual provides customizable policies to meet various needs.
- Generous discounts: Liberty Mutual offers a range of discounts for potential cost savings.
- Online convenience: Liberty Mutual’s online tools enhance the customer experience.
Cons
- Higher base premiums: Liberty Mutual’s base premiums may be comparatively higher.
- Limited local agent availability: Some customers may prefer face-to-face interactions, which Liberty Mutual might lack.
Read more: Liberty Mutual Car Insurance Review
#10 – American Family: Student Savings and Personalized Service
Pros
- Up to 20% bundling discount: Offers a significant discount for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- Up to 20% low-mileage discount: Provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
- Student savings: American Family provides discounts specifically for students.
- Local agents: American Family’s network of local agents ensures personalized service and support.
- Add-on coverages: American Family offers a variety of customizable add-on coverages.
Cons
- Limited eligibility for student savings: Student discounts may be limited to certain criteria.
- Limited regional presence: American Family may not be as widely available in certain regions, affecting accessibility.
Read more: American Family Car Insurance Review
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Comparing Car Insurance Rates for International Visa Holders in the US
If you’re an international visa holder in the United States, understanding the cost of car insurance is crucial. The rates can vary significantly depending on factors like coverage type, insurance company, and your circumstances.
Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
---|---|---|
State Farm | $95 | $185 |
USAA | $80 | $150 |
Progressive | $105 | $200 |
Allstate | $90 | $170 |
AAA | $85 | $160 |
Travelers | $100 | $190 |
Farmers | $92 | $175 |
Nationwide | $98 | $180 |
Liberty Mutual | $110 | $210 |
American Family | $88 | $165 |
What are the requirements to drive while in the United States?
Some of the laws that regulate driving while on a visa vary from state to state. You can contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in the city where you will be living for specific laws. One of the most important things for foreign nationals to do before driving in many states is to get the proper international drivers permit. It acts as a translation tool and can be used in a variety of different countries and languages.
Keep in mind, the US does not issue international driving permits to current residents. You’ll need to get your international driving permit before you move with the motor vehicle department that oversees the license you have. In other words, if your drivers license was issued in France, you would need to visit an office in France.
In most cases, you cannot register for an international driver’s license from America once you move, although there are some exceptions to this rule. You cannot get car insurance without an international driver’s license.
International driver’s licenses only last for one year. If you have a visa that will be longer than that, you need to apply for a license in the state in which you live. Again, different states have different laws that govern those on visa status, so do your due diligence.
This could mean you’ll need to return to your country of origin or make arrangements with your country’s motor vehicle department once a year to renew your permit. Be very cautious of anything not directly connected to them. Unfortunately, there are many scams that take advantage of those looking for international permits, visa insurance, and more.
Read more: Compare Foreign Driver Car Insurance Rates
What kind of insurance options do international drivers have in the US?
There are many car insurance options available for those who are visiting the United States on a visa with an international driver’s license.
First, if you will be in the United States on a temporary visa for six months or less, the best option may be to rent a vehicle which comes with car insurance. With renter’s insurance, you will have to pay an additional fee.
Second, if you have family in the states, they can add you to an existing car insurance policy. They would add you as an international driver on their policy. Once added you would make payments to your family member for the cost.
Being added to an existing policy will be cheaper than setting up your own policy and can even serve as a temporary solution until you get settled. Of course, your family member has to authorize you as an addition to the policy.
Third, you can obtain car insurance through your credit card. If you rent a car using your credit card, you may already have car insurance coverage for no additional fee.
You should always consider your timeline and other plans. It doesn’t make sense to get a long-term insurance plan of any kind if you’re only staying a few weeks. But it could make sense to find a good insurance company you trust if you plan to get a college degree or otherwise stay for an extended period. You’d want to compare minimum coverage with more comprehensive coverage and make an informed decision. If you get a few quotes, a comprehensive coverage plan could be more affordable than you might expect.
Check with your credit card company as well as with the car rental agency to make sure this option is available.
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Where should you shop for car insurance for international drivers?
If you are going to drive with an international driver’s license, you must have car insurance. If you decide on traditional car insurance, you can research U.S. companies that offer car insurance for international drivers before you come to the United States. Some of those companies may also offer visitors medical insurance options.
Many of the large companies in the United States offer this kind of insurance but most of the smaller or family owned companies in the United States do not.
One of the best ways to study your options is with an online comparison tool. A comparison tool will help you see rates and quotes side by side. You can look at policy options and find the one that will fit best with your overseas travel plans. When you go online, you can run multiple quotes at once getting comparable coverage to see who is actually offering the most competitive rates. You can also contact an insurance agent to run quotes and discuss your options.
Having this information ready when you apply for your insurance will be helpful. Coming to the United States already prepared will make your transition a lot simpler. (For more information, read our “How do I get car insurance when moving to the USA?“).
Read more: Compare International Car Insurance: Rates, Discounts, & Requirements
Case Studies: Car Insurance for International Visa Holders in the US
Case Study 1: State Farm’s Comprehensive Protection for a Global Citizen
John, an international visa holder, chose State Farm for his car insurance needs in the U.S. With a diverse background, he valued State Farm’s comprehensive coverage options tailored to his unique situation. Whether on a work, student, or temporary visa, State Farm’s policies provided the peace of mind John needed.
The bundled policies and substantial discounts, especially for low-mileage usage, aligned well with John’s preferences. Additionally, State Farm’s extensive network of local agents offered personalized support, ensuring a seamless experience for a global citizen navigating the U.S. roads.
Case Study 2: USAA’s Military Precision for International Service
Sarah, a military personnel on a temporary visa, found USAA to be the ideal choice for her car insurance needs. USAA’s exclusive discounts for military members, coupled with convenient online tools for policy management, resonated with Sarah’s preferences.
Despite limited local branches, USAA’s exceptional customer service and tailored military savings made her feel supported. The ease of bundling policies and managing claims online added to the convenience, making USAA a trusted ally for Sarah during her time in the U.S.
Case Study 3: Progressive’s Tech-Savvy Solution for a Busy Professional
Alex, an international professional on a work visa, opted for Progressive due to its emphasis on online convenience. With a hectic schedule, Alex appreciated Progressive’s user-friendly online tools for policy management. The company’s innovative Snapshot program, offering discounts based on usage, aligned well with Alex’s desire for a tech-savvy and cost-effective solution.
While facing higher base premiums, Progressive’s customizable add-on coverages provided the flexibility Alex needed. Despite limited local agent availability, the online prowess of Progressive catered to the preferences of a busy international professional.
Where can you get a medical insurance plan on an international visa?
If you’re moving to the US on a visa, you should also consider your health insurance options. Medical expenses can be extremely high, and the rates you get elsewhere likely won’t match what you see in the US without insurance.
There are clinics that provide medical care to those without US insurance. If you work for an international company, they may also provide insurance that can be used in different countries including the US. This is especially common for companies now using self-insured plans. While you’re shopping for auto insurance, make sure to consider your health options as well even if it’s just for emergency medical treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the driving requirements for international visa holders in the US?
Driving requirements vary by state. Contact the local DMV for specific laws.
What insurance options do international drivers have in the US?
International drivers can consider rental car insurance, being added to a family member’s policy, or utilizing insurance through their credit card.
Where should international drivers shop for car insurance?
Research US companies that offer car insurance for international drivers or use online comparison tools to compare rates and policies.
Where can international visa holders get medical insurance?
Consider health insurance options provided by international companies or seek clinics and self-insured plans for medical care.
Can international drivers get car insurance without an international driver’s license?
No, an international driver’s license is typically required to obtain car insurance as an international driver in the US.
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Dani Best
Licensed Insurance Producer
Dani Best has been a licensed insurance producer for nearly 10 years. Dani began her insurance career in a sales role with State Farm in 2014. During her time in sales, she graduated with her Bachelors in Psychology from Capella University and is currently earning her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Since 2014, Dani has held and maintains licenses in Life, Disability, Property, and Casualt...
Licensed Insurance Producer
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.