Best Auto Insurance for Immigrants (2024)
Auto insurance for immigrants is easy to obtain as long as they have a valid driver’s license. Getting car insurance for undocumented immigrants may take more effort. Immigrant car insurance costs a little more than the national average, with State Farm auto insurance rates starting at $105 per month.
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Chris Abrams
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Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
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UPDATED: Feb 15, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page 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: Feb 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 auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
- Car insurance for immigrants is easy to get as long as they have a valid driver’s license
- Getting insurance can be much trickier for undocumented immigrants who live in states that don’t issue licenses to them
- Car insurance for immigrants can cost a little more than the national average since the typical immigrant doesn’t have a driving record yet
America built its legacy as a land of immigrants, and that tradition continues today. Every year, thousands of immigrants stream into America, each for their own reasons. Ideally, an immigrant will have all the documentation they need, so it’s easy to start their new life.
However, the process of immigrating can be complicated and expensive, and without the proper documentation, so can getting car insurance.
Most immigrants need a car, but many states make getting a driver’s license difficult without proper documentation. It can be challenging to get auto insurance quotes without a driver’s license, leaving millions of immigrants without vital coverage.
With more than 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., auto insurance for immigrants offers protection for everyone on the road. Read below to learn how to get car insurance as an undocumented immigrant, then compare rates to find the best price.
Whether you are a US citizen or an immigrant, enter your ZIP into our free rate comparison tool above to get quotes to find out who really has the lowest car insurance rates.
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
Pros & Cons
Company Facts
Average Monthly Rate For Good Drivers
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
How can you get car insurance for immigrants?
The only thing you need to get car insurance in most cases is a driver’s license. Unfortunately, getting a license as an immigrant can come with its own challenges.
Documented immigrants will have an easier time getting a license, but it still requires paperwork. Requirements vary by state, but you typically need to provide an ID, a social security number, proof of residency in your state, a passport, and a green card.
You’ll also need to pass a written and driving test before you can get a license.
Undocumented immigrants have a harder time getting a license because they can’t provide the necessary documents. Since there are currently more than 11 million undocumented immigrants in America, some states have passed laws that allow everyone to get a license.
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What states allow undocumented immigrants to get a license?
While some states ban non-citizens from getting a license, others have taken another approach to the number of undocumented immigrants within their borders.
When undocumented immigrants can’t attain things like a driver’s license, they pose an unintentional risk to themselves and those around them. You need insurance to drive, and most companies require a license to get coverage, which leaves undocumented immigrants without coverage.
Uninsured motorists usually can’t pay for the damage they cause to other vehicles or property, which leaves people with extra insurance stuck with the bill. According to the Insurance Information Institute, about one in eight drivers is uninsured, and the number is growing. Collisions with uninsured motorists increase the overall insurance price, which is an unfair burden to people with proper coverage.
Understanding the toll uninsured motorists have on other drivers, the following states allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a license:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maryland
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
The requirements to get a license as an undocumented immigrant varies by state, so check with your local DMV’s site to see what you need. You can also check when the license will expire and how to renew it.
Can you get car insurance for immigrants if your state doesn’t allow you to get a license?
Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do if you live in a state that doesn’t let undocumented immigrants get a license.
There are avenues to get coverage without a license, but they don’t cover as much as standard insurance. For example, some companies might sell you a policy if you list someone else as the primary driver.
Regardless, driving without auto insurance or a license is a crime and should be avoided. Even if you can get insurance on your vehicle, driving without a license is not worth the risk.
The 10 Best States for Obtaining Immigrant Auto Insurance
The states below have immigrant-friendly laws when it comes to driver licensing. We looked at whether the state will allow immigrants to get a driver’s license regardless of their immigration status, as well as whether they require drivers to have an International Driving Permit (IDP).
While we focused on the states that allow immigrants to drive with fewer restrictions, within that group of states we also looked at car insurance rates.
All of the states in the top 10 allow drivers to get a license regardless of their immigration status.
From there, we looked at the requirements for an IDP and rates. The number-one state is therefore the one with the cheapest rates among those states that have the least restrictive laws.
#10 – New Jersey
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $460
International Driving Permit Required: No, unless the license is not in English
Although auto insurance in New Jersey isn’t particularly cheap, the state’s laws do make it easier to get on the road legally. Immigrants here can apply for and get a New Jersey driver’s license regardless of their immigration status.
New Jersey is one of 11 states that have sanctuary laws for undocumented immigrants state-wide.
You won’t be required to get an IDP in New Jersey, either unless your driver’s license is not in English. Of course, that applies to a large portion of the world, but if you’re planning to stay in New Jersey, getting a state driver’s license is the better approach anyway.
#9 – Colorado
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $324
International Driving Permit Required: No, unless in the state more than 90 days
Colorado law will require foreign drivers to obtain an International Driving Permit if they’re in the state for more than 90 days. If you’re temporarily in the state for more than 90 days (as a student, for example), you’ll need to get that IDP.
If you’re making Colorado your new residence, however, you will want to apply for a driver’s license here. Fortunately, you can do that no matter what your current immigration status. Like New Jersey, Colorado is also a sanctuary state.
#8 – California
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $307
International Driving Permit Required: No, unless in the state more than 90 days
California is a popular destination for immigrants. According to the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC), the state is home to about a quarter of the foreign-born population of the entire U.S.
Of those, it’s estimated that 22% are undocumented. Can illegal immigrants get car insurance in California? California does allow immigrants to apply for a special AB-60 driver’s license regardless of their status. With that license, you can qualify for a car insurance policy from a California company.
For those new to the state, there’s a 90-day grace period on driving without an IDP. If you’re staying longer but don’t plan to make California your home, the IDP will help you get insured. California joins the previous two states on our list with state-wide sanctuary laws.
#7 – Nevada
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $400
International Driving Permit Required: No
Whether you’re on a visa, in the process of a green card application, or any other status (even no status at all) in Nevada, you aren’t required to have an IDP. And you can also apply for a Nevada driver’s license no matter what your status.
Although not a sanctuary state, two Nevada counties have sanctuary laws: Clark and Washoe.
If you plan to live in Nevada, the latter is your best option. Many Nevada auto insurance companies may not be willing to insure a driver with a foreign license. Although there are some non-standard companies that might insure you, the rates will be much higher.
#6 – Maryland
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $382
International Driving Permit Required: No
Maryland law allows every resident to apply for and obtain a driver’s license regardless of their immigration status. Like most states, you are required to head to the DMV to get a Maryland license shortly after you move to the state. Three Maryland counties as well as the city of Baltimore have sanctuary laws.
If you’re in Maryland temporarily, you don’t need an International Driver’s Permit. Bear in mind that auto insurance in Maryland is required by law, and not all companies are willing to insure a driver with a foreign license.
#5 – New York
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $357
International Driving Permit Required: No
Once the landing place for waves of immigrants coming across the Atlantic, New York is still a welcoming place for new arrivals. The state allows all residents to apply for a driver’s license no matter what their immigration status might be. There’s also no requirement for an IDP here.
Can illegal immigrants get car insurance in New York? Yes, as long as you’re licensed. Bear in mind that newly licensed drivers tend to pay more for their insurance.
As we head into the second half of this list, the average cost of auto insurance goes down. New York auto insurance rates aren’t the cheapest compared to the entire country, but for states with immigrant-friendly licensing laws, they’re on the lower end. The entire state also has sanctuary laws for undocumented immigrants.
#4 – Utah
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $300
International Driving Permit Required: No
Like the other states on the back end of this list, Utah doesn’t require you to prove your immigration status in order to get a driver’s license. The state also has no requirement for an IDL.
Utah is one of the few states on our list where there are no sanctuary laws in any part of the state. However, the state laws regarding driver licensing and the low cost of Utah auto insurance still make it a good bet for getting licensed and insured as an immigrant.
#3 – New Mexico
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $289
International Driving Permit Required: No
With an average monthly insurance rate below the $300 mark, New Mexico lands in the top three states for immigrant auto insurance. Immigrants can get a driver’s license regardless of their status in the U.S., and an IDP is not required.
New Mexico is a sanctuary state, which is common to the rest of the top three states on our list as well. While this border state has a lot of controversy regarding immigration, the laws for drivers are immigrant-friendly.
Being a border state also means more access to non-standard auto insurance companies that offer bilingual services and can help drivers with a foreign license. That may include offering auto insurance for undocumented immigrants.
#2 – Oregon
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $288
International Driving Permit Required: No
Oregon is number two on our list as a full sanctuary state that also allows immigrants to get a driver’s license even if they are undocumented. The state has no requirement for an IDP either but may not have as many options for insurance on a foreign license as do states near the Mexican border.
What Oregon does have, however, is affordable auto insurance. That lands it a little higher on our list as a place where it’s both easy and budget-friendly for immigrants to live and drive.
#1 – Illinois
Average Monthly Auto Insurance Rate: $274
International Driving Permit Required: No
Landing at number one on the list of the best states for immigrants to get licensed and insured in is Illinois. Your immigration status doesn’t affect your ability to get an Illinois driver’s license, nor is an IDP required in the state for those with a foreign license.
Illinois is a sanctuary state, and the city of Chicago also has sanctuary laws of its own.
Illinois just beats out Oregon for the top spot on our list thanks to slightly lower average insurance rates. Of course, rates will vary based on a number of factors like your age, gender, and even ZIP code, so which state winds up having cheaper rates for you really depends on those personal factors.
All States Ranked for Immigrant Licensing and Auto Insurance
Below, you’ll find the licensing laws as well as the average cost of car insurance for each state. Take a look at the map to see the data for each state.
It’s notable that most of the friendliest states for immigrant drivers are found along the west and northeast coasts of the country. Also notable is that among states that border Mexico, only two allow undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver’s license.
Rates are averages, so it’s important to remember that there are a lot of variables involved. The best way to shop for auto insurance as an immigrant is to carefully compare your options.
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How do you get the right car insurance for immigrants?
As long as you have a license, you’ll go through the same process as any other driver. There are a lot of insurance products available, and picking the right policy can feel overwhelming sometimes.
However, you don’t need to stress about buying insurance. Follow the steps below to get the perfect policy for your needs.
Determine Your Coverage Needs
The first step in purchasing a policy is to figure out what you need. For example, you probably need full coverage if you have a car loan or lease. Drivers with older, less valuable cars can get away with less insurance if they’re trying to save money.
To begin, consider the primary types of car insurance policies:
- Liability auto insurance. If you cause an accident, liability coverage will help pay for damage you cause to people and property. Most states require liability coverage.
- Collision auto insurance. After an accident, collision insurance helps pay for repairs to your vehicle. You’ll be eligible to make a claim no matter who is at fault for the collision.
- Comprehensive auto insurance. For damage not caused by an accident, there’s comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive usually covers damage from weather, vandalism, animal contact, theft, and more.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. As stated above, uninsured motorists are a serious problem on the streets. This coverage helps pay for damage caused by drivers with inadequate insurance.
- Personal injury protection (PIP). If you or your passengers are injured in an accident, PIP will help pay for hospital bills, physical therapy, and even lost wages.
You will need a minimum amount of liability coverage in most states, while uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is required in about half. If you have a tight budget, the minimum coverage is your cheapest option.
Full coverage auto insurance, which usually includes everything except PIP, is ideal for people who can’t afford to replace their car, don’t own their vehicle outright, or have a valuable car.
In addition to the basic types of insurance, there are several add-ons that increase the value of your policy. Companies offer unique lists, but here are some of the most common you’ll find:
- Roadside assistance
- Guaranteed asset protection insurance(GAP)
- Auto insurance for custom cars
- New car replacement insurance
- Windshield repair
- Rental car reimbursement
As you can see, there are plenty of opportunities to increase your policy’s value (and price). Before you sign up for any, make sure you really need the coverage. You can also speak with an insurance agent to get an idea of how much it will cost.
How much does car insurance for immigrants cost?
When it comes to insurance, companies treat immigrants the same as anyone else. There are several factors insurance companies use to craft a rate specific to you. Each company uses a different formula, but the most common factors are:
- Age and gender. The higher the chances are of you filing a claim, the more your insurance will cost. Young people, seniors, and men are statistically more likely to file a claim.
- Location. Insurance companies keep careful track of claims by ZIP code. You can see higher rates one ZIP code over because residents file more claims.
- Driving record. One of the best indications of your risk to a company is your driving record. Immigrants usually don’t have a driving record, so they typically pay a higher price.
- Vehicle. Like age and gender, some cars are more likely to file claims than others. Another aspect companies look at is how much your car costs to repair.
- Credit score. An insurance company will consider you a higher risk if you have a low credit score. However, some states have outlawed the use of credit scores for insurance quotes.
This is why it’s so important to compare quotes with as many companies as possible. You can see vastly different prices for the same coverage level by shopping around. Learn how to find auto insurance quotes.
While your quotes will be unique to your circumstances, you can get an idea of what you’ll pay by looking at the average price of insurance below.
Company | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
State Farm | $1,256 | $1,068 |
Geico | $1,192 | $1,015 |
Nationwide | $1,308 | $1,294 |
Travelers | $1,323 | $1,168 |
Farmers | $1,759 | $1,521 |
Progressive | $1,452 | $1,235 |
Allstate | $1,891 | $1,682 |
American Family | $1,759 | $1,402 |
Of course, you might pay much more or less than the national average. Also, keep in mind that the cheapest car insurance for immigrants isn’t always the best. For example, Allstate is the most expensive on the list, but it has some of the highest satisfaction rates and an extensive list of add-ons.
Methodology: Finding the Best States for Immigrant Auto Insurance
To find the best states for immigrants to get insurance, we started with the states that allow licensing. Although there are companies that will insure a driver with a foreign license, that coverage is often very expensive and may be temporary. That data was sourced from the National Immigration Law Center (NILC).
Next, we looked at the IDP requirements in the state as a secondary licensing option for non-U.S. citizens who are licensed in another country. This data was found on the individual state DMV or equivalent website.
As a final rating factor, we took the average cost of auto insurance in each state, provided by Quadrant Data Solutions.
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Find the Best Car Insurance for Immigrants in the U.S.
While getting car insurance for immigrants takes more work, it’s well worth the effort. Insurance can save you thousands of dollars if you’re ever involved in an accident. It also makes sure that you can legally drive on American roads.
Since most companies offer auto insurance for immigrants, you’ll have a wide selection to compare when you’re ready for a quote. As long as you figure out what coverage you need first, you’ll be ready to find the perfect policy for you.
Enter your ZIP to get auto insurance quotes for the best car insurance for immigrants coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an immigrant get car insurance?
Yes, immigrants can typically obtain auto insurance. Insurance companies consider various factors such as driving history, identification documents, and residency status when determining eligibility. Immigrants, including those with work visas, green cards, or student visas, can often secure auto insurance by providing the necessary documentation required by insurance providers.
What documents are needed to get auto insurance as an immigrant?
The documentation requirements can vary depending on the insurance provider and the immigrant’s status. Generally, common documents that may be requested include a valid driver’s license, proof of residency or legal presence in the country, and identification documents such as a passport or visa. It’s important to contact insurance providers directly to understand their specific documentation requirements.
Can immigrants with international driver’s licenses obtain auto insurance?
Immigrants with valid international driver’s licenses may be able to obtain auto insurance, depending on the insurance provider and state regulations. However, some states may require immigrants to obtain a driver’s license from that particular state within a certain period to continue driving legally. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of the state where you reside.
Will an immigrant’s immigration status be reported to immigration authorities when getting auto insurance?
Insurance companies typically do not report an individual’s immigration status to immigration authorities when providing auto insurance. Their primary concern is assessing the driving record, vehicle information, and other relevant factors to determine premiums and coverage. Immigration status is generally not a factor considered in the insurance underwriting process.
Can immigrants be denied auto insurance coverage based on their immigration status?
Insurance companies cannot typically deny auto insurance coverage based solely on an individual’s immigration status. However, insurance providers may have their own underwriting criteria and eligibility requirements. Immigrants should research and contact insurance companies that are known to provide coverage to individuals with their particular immigration status to ensure they can obtain the necessary coverage.
Are there any specific considerations for auto insurance for immigrants?
Immigrants should be aware of any state-specific requirements or laws related to auto insurance. Some states may have different regulations or additional documentation requirements for immigrants. It’s important to understand and comply with the specific rules and regulations of the state where you reside to ensure proper coverage.
What are the best states for immigrant auto insurance?
While insurance rates can vary based on various factors, including location, some states tend to be more immigrant-friendly when it comes to auto insurance. Here are a few states known for offering competitive rates and coverage options for immigrants:
- California: California has a large immigrant population, and the state has implemented laws and regulations to protect the rights of immigrants. Many insurance companies in California offer affordable auto insurance options tailored to meet the needs of immigrants.
- New York: New York is another state with a significant immigrant population. The state has various insurance options available, and its regulations aim to provide fair and accessible coverage for all residents, including immigrants.
- Illinois: Illinois has a diverse population, and insurance companies in the state often provide policies suitable for immigrants. Additionally, Illinois law prohibits discrimination based on national origin, which can benefit immigrants seeking auto insurance.
- New Jersey: New Jersey is known for its diverse communities, and insurance providers in the state offer options specifically designed for immigrants. The state also has laws in place to prevent discrimination against immigrants when it comes to auto insurance.
What other factors should immigrants consider when purchasing auto insurance?
When purchasing auto insurance as an immigrant, consider the following factors:
- Coverage options: Look for policies that offer adequate coverage based on your needs and the requirements of your state. Consider liability coverage, collision coverage, comprehensive coverage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Premium rates: Compare premium rates from different insurance companies to find the most affordable option. Factors such as your age, driving history, type of vehicle, and location can influence the premiums you’ll pay.
- Deductibles: Evaluate the deductible amounts offered by insurance providers. A higher deductible can lower your premium but may require you to pay more out of pocket in case of a claim.
- Customer service: Read reviews and consider the reputation of the insurance companies you’re considering. Good customer service is essential for prompt claims handling and overall satisfaction.
- Additional benefits: Some insurance companies may offer additional benefits, such as roadside assistance or accident forgiveness. Consider these extras when comparing policies.
Can immigrants get the same coverage options and discounts as other drivers?
Immigrants can generally access the same coverage options and discounts as other drivers, provided they meet the eligibility criteria set by the insurance provider. Factors such as driving history, vehicle safety features, and bundling multiple policies may still apply to immigrants. It’s advisable to inquire about available coverage options and discounts directly with insurance providers.
Can immigrants be listed as drivers on someone else’s auto insurance policy?
Immigrants can often be listed as drivers on someone else’s auto insurance policy, such as a family member or friend. Insurance providers typically allow policyholders to add additional drivers to their policies, including immigrants. However, it’s important to check with the insurance company directly to understand their policies regarding adding drivers with different immigration statuses and any specific documentation requirements that may apply.
Are there any resources or organizations that can assist immigrants with auto insurance?
Yes, several resources and organizations can assist immigrants with auto insurance. Consider the following options:
- Community organizations: Local community organizations, immigrant support centers, or ethnic associations may provide guidance and information on auto insurance options specifically tailored to immigrants.
- State insurance departments: State insurance departments often offer resources and guidance on insurance regulations and consumer rights. They can provide information on insurance companies operating in your state and help address any concerns or complaints.
- Insurance brokers/agents: Insurance brokers or agents who specialize in serving immigrant communities can offer valuable assistance in navigating the insurance landscape and finding suitable coverage options.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Chris Abrams
Licensed Insurance Agent
Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
Licensed Insurance Agent
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.