Car Insurance for Expats

Coming back to the U.S. after living abroad? Getting car insurance can feel tricky, but a few smart moves can save you money and stress.

Expect higher rates at first — many insurers see a gap in U.S. coverage.
Share proof of your overseas driving record to help lower costs.

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By Ava Lynch

Updated December 1, 2025

Reviewed By Tara Stumpf

Edited By Beth Swanson

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FAQs

Getting car insurance after living abroad

If you’ve just returned to the U.S. after living abroad, getting your car insurance set up might not be as simple as picking up where you left off. Even if you carried insurance overseas, many American insurers will view that time as a gap in coverage unless you can show proof of insurance (in English).

Because most companies want to see at least three years of continuous insurance, this gap can sometimes lead to higher rates. The good news: keeping a copy of your old policy documents and being ready to show your driving history can help smooth the process and save you money.

Didn’t have car insurance abroad?

If you either didn’t have coverage or can’t prove your coverage, expect your US auto insurance rates to be slightly higher than they would be if you had maintained continuous coverage. Typically, a driver with six months of continuous insurance coverage saves nearly $100 per year versus a driver with no sustained coverage.

Average annual insurance premium by time insured

Time Insured	Average Annual Premium
None	$1,599
6 Months	$1,509
1 Year	$1,475
3 Years	$1,439
5 Years	$1,409

Stay insured whenever possible

Not all insurance companies will approve someone without continuous coverage. Because of the risks presented by an uninsured driver, the insurance company might underwrite your car insurance policy with a subsidiary.

When returning to the States from abroad, be sure to secure proof of your expat car insurance. This record will help to prove your continuously insured status. If it looks like your coverage has lapsed, some insurers might not cover you at all or quote you higher premiums. No matter your unique circumstance, finding affordable car insurance for expats isn't impossible. Enter your new zip code below to receive quotes in minutes

If you decide to leave the U.S. again, consider carrying storage insurance or lowering your coverage to the minimum levels, rather than canceling completely. Of course, this depends on how long you plan to be away, but it's something to consider.

Compare rates and find the right coverage in minutes.

Car insurance for expats FAQs:

What will companies look at when determining my rate?

Some of the factors insurance companies take into consideration when calculating a rate are your age, marital status, your specific vehicle, and your personal driving history. Your location can also make a difference; whether you settle in a particular state, in a rural or urban area, or in a specific zip code can make a difference. This is why it is essential to compare rates and coverage options with different insurance companies to find the best fit for your needs.

What if I never had car insurance in the U.S. before I went abroad?

If you haven't had car insurance in the U.S. in the past, you're generally considered a "new driver" by insurance companies, which is a higher risk for the insurer. If you had car insurance while you were abroad, it can be helpful for your insurance company to see documentation (in English) of the policy you carried in your previous country.

Do I need insurance if I'm only living in the U.S. temporarily?

If you're in America for a short visit and renting a car for a few days or weeks, a simple solution is to purchase insurance through the rental car company. However, if you're staying for a longer period of time and purchase a vehicle, then you'll want to get your own policy that meets state minimum requirements. Most policies are typically written for six months or a year, but some companies do offer shorter policy periods. You may also want to ask about the company's cancellation policy, too.

What if I'm from Canada and I'm driving my own car while I live in the U.S.?

If you're relocating from Canada and bringing your personal vehicle with you, then you'll want to obtain a U.S. driver's license from the state you plan to live in. Like other drivers, you'll be required to carry the state minimum when it comes to insurance on your vehicle, so take the time to shop around and find a policy and rate that works best for your situation.

If my vehicle was totaled in an accident, do I still need to pay my insurance bill?

You may still need insurance after a totaled vehicle to avoid a coverage lapseThanks for reaching out to the Zebra!The decision to maintain your auto insurance coverage depends on whether or not you plan to buy a new vehicle shortly. If you cancel your policy and buy another vehicle within the next…

Mar 2, 2026 Belfair, WA

Can I pause my insurance while I'm away for work?

If your vehicle registration isn't up for renewal soon, you might be able to put the vehicle into "storage protection." What this means is the vehicle is not legally allowed on the road, but will still maintain comprehensive coverage in order to protect the vehicle from theft and weather damage. Th…

Aug 8, 2025 San Jose, California

Does a vehicle need car insurance if its in storage in New Jersey?

Every car that is registered needs to have insurance in New Jersey. Since you are not driving you can keep the state minimum liability on the vehicle. Most of the penalties would be for driving without insurance but you can not have the car registered without insurance. Unfortunately, there really …

Aug 13, 2024 Austin, TX

If I sell my car and cancel my insurance, will my rates be higher later on?

You are right — having a lapse in coverage will cause your rates to be higher in the future. I recommend getting a non-owners policy, which it sounds like Progressive is already offering to you. This is essentially a liability-only policy when you do not own a vehicle, or are between vehicle owners…

Jan 8, 2024 Los Angeles, CA

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About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.