Best Car Insurance for Tourists in the USA in 2024 (Top 10 Companies Ranked)

The top picks for the best car insurance for tourists in the USA are State Farm, USAA, and Progressive, offering competitive rates and tailored coverage.

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.

Our Top 10 Picks: Best Car Insurance for Tourists in the USA

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 comparisons in America then enter a U.S. zip code to consider insurance quotes from many different auto insurance companies.

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#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Bundling Policies: State Farm offers significant discounts for bundling multiple insurance policies.
• High Low-Mileage Discount: State Farm provides a substantial discount for low-mileage usage.
• Diverse Coverage Options: Offers a range of coverages tailored to various needs. Discover insights in our State Farm car insurance review.

Cons

• Limited Multi-Policy Discount: State Farm’s multi-policy discount is not as competitive, at 17%.
• Higher Premium Costs: Despite discounts, premiums can be higher for some coverage levels.

#2 – USAA: Best for Military Savings

Pros

• Military Discounts: USAA offers special rates and discounts for military members and their families.
• Bundling Policies: Provides a 10% discount for bundling multiple types of insurance. Unlock details in our USAA car insurance review.
• Dedicated Support: Known for excellent customer service tailored to military needs.

Cons

• Limited Availability: USAA services are available only to military personnel and their families.
• Lower Low-Mileage Discount: Offers a lower low-mileage discount of 10%.

#3 – Progressive: Best for Online Convenience

Pros

• High Low-Mileage Discount: Progressive offers a significant 30% discount for low-mileage drivers.
• Innovative Online Tools: Leading in online services for policy management and claims. Delve into our evaluation of Progressive car insurance review.
• Flexible Policy Options: Progressive provides various add-ons and customizable policies.

Cons

• Moderate Multi-Policy Discount: Offers a 12% discount for bundling, which is not the highest available.
• Variable Customer Service: Online focus can impact personalized service quality.

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#4 – Allstate: Best for Add-on Coverages

Pros

• High Multi-Policy and Low-Mileage Discounts: Offers 25% and 22% discounts, respectively, for these features.
• Range of Add-Ons: Provides extensive additional coverage options for customized protection.
• Strong Local Presence: Numerous agents provide localized and personalized service. Access comprehensive insights in our Allstate car insurance review.

Cons

• Higher Cost for Add-Ons: Enhanced coverage comes at a significantly higher price.
• Complex Policy Management: Some users find policy management less straightforward.

#5 – AAA: Best for Local Agents

Pros

• Community and Local Agent Support: Strong local presence with agents knowledgeable about regional needs.
• Decent Discounts: Offers 10% multi-policy and 12% low-mileage discounts. Discover more about offerings in our AAA car insurance review.
• Membership Benefits: Provides additional benefits and discounts through AAA membership.

Cons

• Membership Requirement: Insurance services require a AAA membership, which has an associated cost.
• Less Competitive Discounts: Discounts are not as high compared to some larger insurers.

#6 – Travelers: Best for Accident Forgiveness

Pros

• Accident Forgiveness: Offers accident forgiveness policies, preventing rate increases after a first accident.
• Good Discounts: Provides a 13% discount for multi-policies and 15% for low-mileage.
• Reputation for Reliability: Known for dependable coverage and consistent service. Check out insurance savings in our complete Travelers car insurance review.

Cons

• Higher Base Rates: Initial rates may be higher, even with discounts.
• Limited Global Reach: Primarily services are more focused in the U.S. than internationally.

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#7 – Farmers: Best for Local Agents

Pros

• High Low-Mileage Discount: Offers a competitive 20% discount for low-mileage drivers.
• Strong Local Agent Network: An extensive network of agents provides personalized service.
• Diverse Policy Options: Wide array of coverage options to meet varied customer needs. Read up on Farmers car insurance review for more information.

Cons

• Average Multi-Policy Discount: Only a 10% discount for bundling policies.
• Higher Premiums for Certain Coverages: Some specific coverages come at a higher premium cost.

#8 – Nationwide: Best for Usage Discount

Pros

• High Discounts for Usage: Offers 20% discounts for both multi-policy and low-mileage usage. More information is available about this provider in our Nationwide car insurance discounts.
• Usage-Based Insurance Options: Provides innovative insurance options based on actual driving.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Wide coverage options including pet insurance during travel.

Cons

• Complex Discount Structures: Some customers may find the discount criteria complex.
• Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Customer service quality can vary widely.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Customizable Policies

Pros

• Highest Multi-Policy Discount: Offers a leading 30% discount for bundling policies.
• Customizable Policies: Allows extensive customization to fit individual needs.
• Good Low-Mileage Discount: Provides a solid 15% low-mileage discount. See more details on our Liberty Mutual car insurance review.

Cons

• Premium Pricing: Customizable options can significantly increase the cost.
• Inconsistent Service Levels: Customer experience can vary depending on the region and agent.

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#10 – American Family: Best for Student Savings

Pros

• Student Discounts: Offers discounts and benefits tailored to student needs. Learn more in our American Family car insurance review.
• Strong Multi-Policy and Low-Mileage Discounts: Both are set at a competitive 20%.
• Personalized Service: Known for a high level of customer service and support.

Cons

• Limited Availability: Not available in all states, which can be a drawback for some.
• Higher Rates for Non-Students: Those not qualifying for student discounts may find rates higher.

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.

Car Insurance for Tourists in the US: Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider

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

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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. Access comprehensive insights on how you get competitive quotes for car insurance.

Check with your credit card company as well as with the car rental agency to make sure this option is available.

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?“).

Case Studies: Car Insurance for International Visa Holders in the US

Navigating car insurance options in the U.S. can be a daunting task for international visa holders. This series of case studies explores how individuals from different backgrounds and needs have found tailored insurance solutions that align with their unique circumstances.

• 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.
• 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.
• 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 aligned well with Alex’s desire for a tech-savvy and cost-effective solution.

These case studies underscore the importance of choosing a car insurance provider that meets the specific requirements of international visa holders in the U.S. Whether it’s comprehensive coverage, military precision, or tech-savvy solutions, finding the right fit ensures both peace of mind and financial protection on the road. More information is available in our “Compare International Car Insurance: Rates, Discounts, & Requirements.”

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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. Delve into our evaluation of “Best Car Insurance for Healthcare Workers.”

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.

You can get rate quotes on car insurance right now. Just enter your ZIP code below.

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