How much will international auto insurance cost?
International auto insurance costs more than regular coverage because driving on new roads makes you high-risk. Lower your rates by comparing quotes from specialty companies.
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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: Oct 20, 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: Oct 20, 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.
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How much is international car insurance? Well, the international car insurance cost is much like the cost of local car insurance — it depends on a number of factors, and no two people are going to get the exact same rates.
In addition to the different things that the insurance company considers, it will also depend on whether you are purchasing your insurance locally or internationally as well. There is no such thing as worldwide auto insurance, so you will have to look at international car insurance coverage when you know you’ll be traveling.
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In addition to these factors, if you are someone who lives outside of the US and you are in need of international auto insurance coverage, then the costs will vary depending not only on your driving record and the type of vehicle that you drive but also upon where you plan on driving.
- Your rates will depend on whether you are purchasing your insurance locally or internationally
- If you are someone who lives outside of the US and you are in need of car insurance when international, then the costs will vary depending not only on your driving record and the type of vehicle that you drive, but also upon where you plan on driving
- There are many US-based auto insurance companies that will write an international auto insurance policy for you
- unfortunately, international auto insurance is more expensive than auto insurance from the state that you currently live in (Wondering which states have the cheapest auto insurance? Check out our piece on cheap auto insurance by state)
The reason that this is important is that because in some states your rates will depend on how many years you have had your US driver’s license.
If you are just coming to the US and you are trying to get US insurance in NC, for example, then your US car insurance cost will compare to those of a teen driver because you don’t have a US license.
If, however, you are looking for temporary insurance that will cover a broader driving base, then your insurance rates will be far different than if you were considering something state-specific. And it’s the same for if you’re in need of temporary international auto insurance.
Who might need international auto insurance?
The truth is that most people won’t require any international automobile insurance unless they are planning on moving to another country and taking their personal vehicles with them.
This might occur for work or personal reasons but, typically, this type of move is for business reasons.
Another reason that you may require international insurance for cars is if you are working in another country for a limited period of time and don’t intend on getting a driver’s license in that country.
Even if you aren’t driving your personal vehicle, you may be required to purchase car insurance for international travel for your vehicle while you are driving in that country.
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What other costs are involved?
You may have to ship your car and want to know, how much does it cost to ship a car internationally? Shipping a vehicle to the UK, for example, can be expensive. Prices start at around $800 for a small car and can be around $2000 for a van or SUV.
And for another example, if you are shipping a vehicle to Australia, your prices will be even higher. The price for shipping compact cars starts at almost $3000. After you consider shipping costs, you can answer how much is car insurance?
You will also have to consider the cost of getting your vehicle to a port that can ship it overseas. The above prices do not include transport to a port, you will have to manage that on your own or hire a mover to do it for you.
In addition, there will be port fees and taxes both in the US and whatever country you are shipping your vehicle to.
What’s more, if you have a vehicle from the US, it is possible that your vehicle won’t meet the safety standards required by other countries, such as the UK. Before you can drive you vehicle there, you will be required to modify your vehicle to meet their safety and emission standards.
This is not meant to deter you from taking your car with you when you travel, only to remind you that there are other fees to consider when making your budget.
Where can I purchase international auto insurance?
You may wonder about specific international auto insurance companies. There are many US-based auto insurance companies that will write an international auto insurance policy for you; however, they will not, usually, underwrite those policies. So international car insurance from USA companies may not include what you think. Keep this in mind when you’re comparing international car insurance for travel.
Instead, they find an underwriter for the policy, often choosing between several different sources to get you the lowest price.
If you know you are going to be in a foreign country for an extended period of time, you may want to consider an insurance company that specializes in car insurance abroad.
In this case, you would choose a company that sells international policies in the country that you are visiting. For example, you need to make sure that you know the car insurance cost in Australia if you’re traveling there, but if you’re going to the Netherlands, you need to find out about car insurance in the Netherlands.
In order to determine your best option, you will want to compare the rates for both types of companies and from multiple companies as well. This will ensure that you get the lowest rates possible.
Can I expect to pay what I am paying for my local auto insurance?
No, unfortunately, international auto insurance is more expensive than auto insurance from the state that you currently live in. The price of international travel car insurance depends on where you are going.
The reason for this is that when you drive in a foreign country, you are driving in new territory with different laws than you are accustomed to.
What this means is that you will be a higher risk driver for overseas auto insurance than someone who is local to the area in which you are driving.
As time goes on, for example, if you are going to be in one place for more than 6 months, then you may get lower rates as you maintain a good driving record; however, there is no guarantee of this. So how much is car insurance for international drivers? That really depends on a variety of factors, so contact your insurance provider to get more details about international vehicle insurance.
Your best bet is to get the lowest rates possible from the beginning so you don’t break the bank.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much will international auto insurance cost?
The cost of car insurance for travelling abroad can vary depending on several factors, such as the destination country, the duration of your stay, the type of vehicle you’re insuring, your driving history, and the coverage options you choose.
It is best to obtain quotes from insurance providers specializing in overseas car insurance coverage to get an accurate estimate of the cost and to try to find cheap international car insurance.
What factors influence the cost of international auto insurance?
Several factors can influence the cost of international motor insurance. Comparing auto insurance in the world will still mean using the following:
- Destination Country: The car insurance prices by country will vary. Factors like local regulations, driving conditions, and accident rates can impact the cost.
- Duration of Stay: The length of time you plan to spend abroad may affect the cost. Insurance providers may offer different options for short-term or long-term coverage.
- Vehicle Type: The make, model, age, and value of your vehicle can impact the insurance cost. Luxury or high-performance vehicles might have higher premiums due to their higher repair or replacement costs.
- Driving History: Your driving record, including previous accidents or traffic violations, can influence the insurance cost. A clean driving history may result in lower premiums.
- Coverage Options: The extent of coverage you choose, such as liability, comprehensive, or collision coverage, can affect the cost. Additional options like roadside assistance or rental car coverage may also increase the premium.
Where can I obtain international auto insurance quotes?
To obtain quotes for car insurance cost by country, you can reach out to specialized international car insurance companies. Some options include:
- International Insurance Brokers: These are companies that specialize in providing insurance solutions for individuals or businesses traveling abroad. They can offer quotes from multiple insurance providers based on your specific needs.
- Local Insurance Providers: In some cases, your current insurance provider may offer international coverage or have partnerships with insurers abroad. Contact your insurance company to inquire about their offerings.
- Online Insurance Comparison Platforms: There are online platforms that allow you to compare quotes from different insurance providers. These platforms can be useful for obtaining multiple quotes conveniently.
Remember to provide accurate information about your travel plans and vehicle to receive accurate auto insurance estimates. It is recommended to compare coverage options, terms, and prices before making a decision about auto insurance in foreign countries.
Are there any additional considerations for international auto insurance?
Yes, when obtaining foreign auto insurance, it is essential to consider the following:
- Local Laws and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the driving laws and insurance requirements of the destination country. Some countries may have specific coverage requirements, such as mandatory insurance for international drivers.
- Language and Documentation: Ensure you have the necessary documents, such as an international driving permit, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance, translated into the local language if required.
- Additional Coverage Needs: Depending on your travel plans, you might need additional coverage beyond basic auto insurance. For example, if you plan to drive in multiple countries or engage in high-risk activities like off-roading, you may require specialized coverage.
- Deductibles and Claims Process: Understand the deductibles and the process for filing claims with your insurance provider in case of an accident or damage. Be aware of any limitations or exclusions in the policy.
It is advisable to consult with international auto insurance providers or brokers specializing in international coverage to ensure you have the appropriate insurance for your needs and travel plans.
Can I use my domestic auto insurance policy for international travel?
In most cases, domestic auto insurance policies do not provide international insurance for cars. They typically only cover you within your home country or have limited coverage for travel to certain neighboring countries, like U.S. car insurance in Canada. It is important to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage and whether any international options are available.
Obtaining separate overseas car insurance coverage for travel is generally recommended since car insurance in other countries may be more complicated.
Are there any specific insurance requirements for driving in certain countries?
Car insurance worldwide is not all the same. International car insurance in Europe is not the same as US car insurance in Europe. Some countries have specific insurance requirements for drivers. For example, certain European countries may require a minimum level of third-party liability insurance coverage.
It is important to research and comply with the insurance requirements of the destination country before driving there. This information can often be obtained from the country’s embassy or consulate, as well as from insurance providers specializing in international coverage.
Are rental cars covered under international auto insurance?
International auto insurance policies typically do not cover rental cars. If you plan to rent a car internationally, you will usually need to purchase separate insurance from the rental company or explore options for rental car insurance overseas through your credit card provider.
Check with your rental car company and insurance provider to understand the available options for renting a car abroad insurance in the specific country you will be visiting. You might need to purchase international car rental liability insurance.
Can I purchase international auto insurance while already abroad?
It is generally recommended to purchase international auto insurance before traveling abroad. Does my car insurance cover me abroad? Possibly. However, some insurance providers may offer the option to purchase coverage while already abroad, although the availability and terms may vary.
Keep in mind that obtaining insurance after an incident or accident has occurred may be challenging, so it’s best to secure coverage in advance whenever possible. Worldwide auto insurance is not a thing, so you will have to get specific car insurance for overseas travel.
Will my international auto insurance cover medical expenses in case of an accident?
International auto insurance primarily focuses on covering vehicle-related damages and liability. Medical expenses for injuries sustained in an accident are typically not covered under international auto insurance policies. It is important to have separate travel health insurance or ensure you have adequate medical coverage through other means, such as a travel insurance policy or a health insurance plan that extends coverage to international travel.
How much does car insurance cost for international students?
Car insurance for international students will vary according to a variety of factors including driving record and the type of coverage needed, and even the location. Car insurance prices in Europe may vary from the price of international driving insurance in Asia.
What is the temporary international auto insurance cost?
You can buy temporary international car insurance, but the cost of that will vary according to where you are traveling and how long you need the car insurance for. Whenever you’re looking for auto insurance internationally or not, check with your insurance provider to make sure you have the right coverage.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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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.