Auto Insurance for Drivers With a Canadian License (2024)
Auto insurance for drivers with a Canadian license is mandatory if you'll be in the U.S. for longer than six months. Canadian residents can buy auto insurance from a U.S. insurer, but their current Canadian policy likely provides coverage out of the country. Use this guide to learn the auto insurance requirements for non-U.S. residents.
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Schimri Yoyo
Licensed Agent & Financial Advisor
Schimri Yoyo is a financial advisor with active insurance licenses in seven states and over 20 years of professional experience. During his career, he has held roles at Foresters Financial, Strayer University, Minnesota Life, Securian Financial Services, Delaware Valley Advisors, Bridgemark Wealth Management, and Fidelity. Schimri is an educator eager to assist individuals and families in ach...
Licensed Agent & Financial Advisor
UPDATED: Jan 8, 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.
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: Jan 8, 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
- Canadian drivers can use their own license to get U.S. auto insurance temporarily
- You’ll typically need to get a driver’s license issued by a U.S. state within 30 days if you’re moving to the country permanently
- Once you receive that license, you can convert your insurance for the longer term
If your permanent residence is in Canada, you can spend up to six months in America without needing a U.S. driver’s license, so this is ideal if you simply want auto insurance for snowbirds. If you intend to stay longer, you need to get a state driver’s license. Once you have that, you can then get long-term auto insurance for your vehicle.
Auto insurance requirements for non-U.S. residents vary by state. Use this guide to determine how much auto insurance you need and where you can buy affordable auto insurance for drivers with a Canadian license.
How to Get U.S. Auto Insurance For Drivers With a Canadian License
Some companies will sell temporary auto insurance for non-U.S. residents for the length of your visit, but if you’re planning to move to the U.S., the good news is that the process is not too difficult.
You will need to shop around to find out where you can get a policy and compare prices. Such a policy may be time-limited, and the company will typically require you to apply for a U.S. license right away if you intend to stay in the country rather than simply visit for up to 6 months.
If you plan on staying, you will need to take further steps and plan to get that U.S. driver’s license. You will be able to drive in the U.S. on your Canadian license for a short time while you make arrangements.
All cars need a required amount of auto insurance coverage, but the rules can vary by state in the U.S. Like Canada’s separate provincial vehicle and licensing offices, each U.S. state also has its own driver and vehicle agency (DMV), which sets the rules relating to licensing, registration, and auto insurance.
Auto Insurance Requirements for Drivers with a Canadian License
If you plan on extending your visit or living in the U.S. permanently, you will need to buy auto insurance that meets the minimum requirements of the state you’re residing in.
State | Required Coverage(s) | Minimum Liability Limits |
---|---|---|
Alabama | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Alaska | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 50/100/25 |
Arizona | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 15/30/10 |
Arkansas | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 25/50/25 |
California | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 15/30/5 |
Colorado | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/15 |
Connecticut | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/20 |
Delaware | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 25/50/10 |
District of Columbia | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist | 25/50/10 |
Florida | Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 10/20/10 |
Georgia | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Hawaii | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 20/40/10 |
Idaho | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/15 |
Illinois | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/20 |
Indiana | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Iowa | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 20/40/15 |
Kansas | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 25/50/25 |
Kentucky | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Louisiana | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 15/30/25 |
Maine | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist, & MedPay | 50/100/25 |
Maryland | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 30/60/15 |
Massachusetts | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 20/40/5 |
Michigan | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 20/40/10 |
Minnesota | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 30/60/10 |
Mississippi | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Missouri | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Montana | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/20 |
Nebraska | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Nevada | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/20 |
New Hampshire | Financial Responsibility (None Required) | 25/50/25 |
New Jersey | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 15/30/5 |
New Mexico | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/10 |
New York | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/10 |
North Carolina | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 30/60/25 |
North Dakota | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Ohio | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Oklahoma | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
Oregon | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Personal Injury Protection, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/20 |
Pennsylvania | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 15/30/5 |
Rhode Island | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/25 |
South Carolina | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
South Dakota | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Tennessee | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/15 |
Texas | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 30/60/25 |
Utah | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Personal Injury Protection | 25/65/15 |
Vermont | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/10 |
Virginia | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/20 |
Washington | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/10 |
West Virginia | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, & Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist | 25/50/25 |
Wisconsin | Bodily Injury, Property Damage Liability, Uninsured Motorist, & MedPay | 25/50/10 |
Wyoming | Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability | 25/50/20 |
State requirements vary, which impacts the cost of auto insurance for drivers with a Canadian license. Remember to compare auto insurance rates by state to find the most affordable policy in your neighborhood.
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Getting U.S. Auto Insurance Before Leaving Canada
Before you get ready to move to the USA, you’ll need to do some preparation. You can arrange to get your U.S. auto insurance in Canada by shopping around to find an insurer that will issue you a policy before you get a U.S. license.
Figure out where you will stay and where you will be doing most of your driving before researching the details. For example, the Washington State Department of Licensing allows 30 days after your move to get your state driver’s license. Before doing this, you need to register as a resident but can then pre-apply online before making an appointment at a local driver licensing office.
Of course, to be able to settle in a U.S. state as a Canadian citizen, you must first get permission from the U.S. government. When they issue a visa, you should also apply for a social security number (SSN) to make the settlement process much easier. Do auto insurance companies need your Social Security number? Yes, they need your Social Security number to allow a purchase.
The Bottom Line on Auto Insurance for Drivers with a Canadian License
For short-term visits to the United States, drivers with a Canadian license do not need to have U.S. auto insurance. However, if you’re staying for longer than six months, you will need to buy an auto policy that meets the minimum car insurance rates in the state you’ll be driving in.
Make sure you take advantage of auto insurance discounts. This will ensure you get the best auto insurance rates for drivers with a Canadian license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive in the United States with a Canadian driver’s license?
Yes, you can drive in the U.S. with a valid Canadian driver’s license. However, it is advisable to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your Canadian license for additional convenience and proof of identification.
Do I need auto insurance to drive in the United States with a Canadian license?
Yes, auto insurance is mandatory for driving in the U.S., even if you have a Canadian driver’s license. It is crucial to have appropriate auto insurance coverage that meets the minimum requirements of the state where you will be driving.
Can I get U.S. car insurance with a Canadian license?
Many popular U.S. insurance companies offer auto insurance to foreign drivers, including Progressive and State Farm.
Will my Canadian auto insurance policy cover me while driving in the United States?
Your Canadian auto insurance policy may provide coverage for driving in the U.S., but it is essential to check with your insurance provider to confirm the extent of coverage. Some policies may offer coverage for a limited time or have specific restrictions, so it’s crucial to review your policy and consult your insurance agent.
Can you buy auto insurance without a U.S. driver’s license?
You can buy car insurance without a U.S. license as long as you have a valid driver’s license or permit issued by your country of residence.
What are the U.S. minimum auto insurance requirements for drivers with a Canadian license?
Auto insurance requirements vary by state in the U.S. Generally, liability insurance is the minimum requirement, covering bodily injury and property damage liability.
How can a Canadian get a U.S. driver’s license?
Contact the local DMV in the state where you’re residing to start the licensing process. You may need to retake the written and practical driving tests before the state will issue a driver’s license.
Are there any special considerations required to get U.S. auto insurance for drivers with a Canadian license?
Canadian snowbirds who plan to drive to the U.S. for an extended period should consider a few key factors:
- Insurance coverage: Notify your Canadian auto insurance provider about your plans and inquire if your policy covers extended stays in the U.S. You may need to obtain additional coverage or adjust your policy accordingly.
- Length of stay: Some U.S. states have specific regulations regarding the length of time you can stay before you are considered a resident and need to obtain local auto insurance. Research the requirements of the state where you will be residing.
- Proof of address: Some insurance providers may require proof of address in the U.S. to provide coverage. Make sure you have the necessary documents, such as a lease agreement or utility bill, to satisfy this requirement.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): While not mandatory, obtaining an IDP can be beneficial, as it serves as an official translation of your Canadian driver’s license and can be helpful if any issues arise.
Will my Canadian auto insurance policy cover me if I drive a rental car in the United States?
Canadian auto insurance policies may not typically cover rental cars in the U.S. Rental car companies usually offer their own insurance options, including collision damage waivers and liability coverage. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider and the rental car company to understand the extent of coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance from the rental agency if necessary.
How can I obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Canada?
In Canada, you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA). To apply for an IDP, you will need to visit a local CAA office in person and provide the required documentation, such as your Canadian driver’s license, passport-sized photographs, and a completed application form. It is recommended to check the specific requirements and fees with your local CAA office before applying.
Can I buy a car with a Canadian license?
You can buy a car in the United States with a Canadian license, but you won’t be able to drive it off the lot unless you have a U.S. insurance policy. You cannot use Canadian auto insurance on that car as it cannot be registered in Canada, and you won’t be able to register the vehicle in the state that you bought it unless you have a U.S. driver’s license.
How long can I drive my Canadian car in the U.S.?
Non-U.S. residents can typically drive their vehicles for up to one year before they’re required to register in the state they’re residing in.
How long can you drive with a foreign license in the U.S.?
Non-U.S. residents can drive for 4-6 months with a foreign driver’s license.
What happens if you drive a car without auto insurance in the U.S.?
Without car insurance, you will personally be held financially and legally responsible for any damages you cause in an auto accident.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Schimri Yoyo
Licensed Agent & Financial Advisor
Schimri Yoyo is a financial advisor with active insurance licenses in seven states and over 20 years of professional experience. During his career, he has held roles at Foresters Financial, Strayer University, Minnesota Life, Securian Financial Services, Delaware Valley Advisors, Bridgemark Wealth Management, and Fidelity. Schimri is an educator eager to assist individuals and families in ach...
Licensed Agent & Financial Advisor
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.