Auto Insurance with International License or Foreign Driver's License in California
Reviewed by George Karapetyan, Foreign & International License Auto Insurance Specialist, 20+ Years Experience
CA Insurance License #0E94849 · IIS Insurance Services (CA Agency License #0G56765) · Verify license at CA DOI »
Last reviewed: October 7, 2026
Auto Insurance with a Foreign or International License in California
Getting behind the wheel in California with a foreign or international driver’s license may seem tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re wondering whether you can secure auto insurance in the state without a California license, the answer is a solid yes.
And at IIS Insurance Services, we’re here to make it happen.
We’ve been helping drivers like you get the coverage you need since 2009. Whether you’re visiting, working, studying, or setting up a long-term home, we’re pros at finding affordable insurance options for international drivers.
Not sure how to do that? Here, we’ll break down how insurance works when you have a foreign or international license. We’ll simplify the process so you can focus on the road ahead.
Can You Get Car Insurance with a Foreign or International License?
Yes, in most cases.
Plenty of insurance companies in California are open to covering drivers with valid foreign licenses or an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Some insurers don’t accept international credentials, though. Others accept them but charge more.
That’s where we come in. At IIS Insurance Services, we’ve partnered with multiple insurance carriers that specialize in working with drivers just like you. We can shop around and lock in coverage that’s easy on your wallet while meeting California’s legal requirements.
Foreign License vs. International License: What’s the Difference?
Before we go any further, let’s clear this up. The terms might sound similar but mean different things.
Foreign License
This is the driver’s license issued by your home country, like a French license if you’re from France.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
This isn’t a separate license. It’s basically a translated version of your foreign license, making it easier for law enforcement abroad to verify your driving eligibility. You need to carry both documents together when driving in California.
It may help to think of your foreign license as proof you’re a qualified driver, while the IDP is the translation that helps in international settings.
Do You Need Car Insurance?
Yes, it’s the law. If you’re planning to hit the road in California, you’re required to have car insurance, no exceptions.
This applies if you’re:
- A new immigrant
- Here on a visa (whether for work or school)
- A tourist extending your stay
- Waiting for your California license
- Borrowing or renting vehicles during your stay
Even if your foreign or international license is valid for driving in California, that doesn’t replace the need for insurance. Whether you own a car, rent one, or borrow a friend’s, legal coverage is a must.
California’s Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
California raised its minimum liability limits effective January 1, 2025, under Senate Bill 1107. If you’ve been driving in California for a while, the old numbers (15/30/5) are out of date. Here are the current minimums every driver must carry.
| Coverage | California Minimum (Effective January 1, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability (per person) | $30,000 |
| Bodily Injury Liability (per accident) | $60,000 |
| Property Damage Liability | $15,000 |
These three numbers together are usually written as 30/60/15. They replaced the old 15/30/5 limits that had been in place since 1967. The change was passed in 2022 (SB 1107) with a delayed start date so insurers and drivers had time to adjust.
A quick honest note on those numbers: 30/60/15 is the legal floor, not a recommendation. A single trip to the ER after an accident can run well past $30,000, and a newer car costs far more than $15,000 to replace. Most drivers we work with carry higher liability limits (often 100/300/100 or more) plus uninsured motorist coverage, which protects you if the other driver has no insurance or it’s a hit-and-run. We’ll walk you through what makes sense for your situation when you get a quote.
How Long Can You Use a Foreign or International License?
This depends on how long you’re staying and whether you’re officially becoming a California resident. Here’s a breakdown:
- Visitors and tourists can drive with a foreign license or IDP for the duration of their stay.
- New residents are expected to get a California driver’s license within 10 days of establishing residency.
If you’re in that gray area waiting for your local license, don’t stress. We’ll help you keep your car insured during the transition and easily update your policy once your California license is issued.
What happens if your foreign license expires while you’re here?
If your foreign license expires while you’re living in California, your auto insurance policy stays active. The policy itself doesn’t cancel automatically. But to legally keep driving, you need a valid license, so you’ll want to apply for either a standard California driver’s license or an AB 60 license before your current one runs out. We usually recommend starting that process at least 30 to 60 days before the expiration date so there’s no gap in your driving privileges. If you let the license lapse and keep driving, you risk a citation, and at renewal time your carrier may treat you as an unlicensed driver, which can affect your rate or your eligibility for coverage.
What Coverage Is Available?
You won’t be limited on coverage options with us. International drivers can access the same types of policies as California-licensed drivers, and we work with you to find the combination that fits your situation.
Some of the most common policies our drivers choose from include:
- Liability Insurance: Covers damage or injuries you cause to others. It’s mandatory in California.
- Collision Coverage: Helps repair your vehicle after an accident, no matter whose fault it was.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against theft, vandalism, weather damage, and other non-collision events.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Pays when you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have enough (or any) insurance.
- Medical Payments Coverage: Covers medical costs for you and passengers after an accident, regardless of fault.
Not sure what’s right for you, what’s legally required, or how to balance the right amount of coverage with a limited budget? We’ll walk you through what you need and point you to the options that fit.
What Documents Should You Have?
You don’t need a mountain of paperwork to get started. Here’s what’s usually required for a policy:
- A valid foreign license or IDP
- A passport or another form of ID
- A U.S. address where the car will be kept
- Details about the vehicle (year, make, model, and VIN)
- Information about how often and where you’ll be driving
Even if your documents aren’t in English, we can work with you to sort it all out. Our agents work with international drivers every day, so we’ve likely seen a situation like yours before.
What License Types Qualify for Auto Insurance in California?
If you’re driving in California without a standard CA Class C license, you probably want to know one thing first: can you actually buy a real insurance policy? In most cases, yes. Here’s how it breaks down by the type of license or permit you hold.
Foreign driver’s license (short-term visitors)
If you’re visiting California on a tourist visa or short business trip, you can usually drive on your home country’s license for the duration of your visit. Most insurance carriers will write a policy on a foreign license, though some may ask for an International Driving Permit alongside it, especially if your license isn’t in English.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
An IDP is not a license on its own. It’s a translation of your home country license into multiple languages, recognized in California. Carrying both your home license and an IDP makes the quoting process easier and helps avoid confusion at traffic stops or rental counters. Some insurers prefer to see the IDP on file when your original license uses a non-Latin alphabet.
Out-of-country license held by F, J, H, L, or B visa holders
Students, exchange visitors, temporary workers, intracompany transferees, and business or tourist visitors can typically insure a vehicle in California using their home country license, especially during the first months after arrival while they sort out a CA license. We work with carriers who understand these situations and don’t treat visa-holder drivers as high risk by default.
AB 60 California Driver License
This is a full California driver license issued to residents who can’t prove lawful presence in the United States. It’s the same license, with the same testing requirements, used for the same purpose: legal driving in California. Carriers in our network treat AB 60 license holders the same as any other CA license holder for quoting purposes. More on this in the next section.
ITIN-only applicants (no SSN required)
You don’t need a Social Security Number to buy auto insurance in California. If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or in some cases no tax ID at all, we can still match you with a carrier. The license itself is what matters most, not the tax ID.
If your situation isn’t listed above, give us a call. We’ve placed coverage for drivers in just about every license scenario California allows.
AB 60 Driver Licenses and Auto Insurance in California
The AB 60 law took effect on January 1, 2015, and changed how driver licensing works in California for residents who can’t show proof of lawful presence in the United States. If you have an AB 60 license, this section is for you.
What an AB 60 license actually is
It’s a real California driver license issued by the DMV. You take the same written test, the same behind-the-wheel test, the same vision exam, and you carry the same license in your wallet as any other California driver. The only visible difference is a small marking on the front that reads “Federal Limits Apply” and a notice on the back stating the license can’t be used to prove eligibility for federal benefits or board a domestic flight (a REAL ID is needed for that). For everything driving-related on California roads, an AB 60 license functions exactly like a standard Class C. Since the program launched in 2015, the California DMV has issued more than 1.3 million AB 60 licenses, which gives you a sense of how common they are on California roads today.
Who qualifies
California residents who can prove their identity and California residency but can’t show federal lawful presence. The DMV accepts a wide range of identity documents for this, including foreign passports, consular ID cards (for example, the matrícula consular), national ID cards, foreign birth certificates, and several others. Residency is typically shown with a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or similar document with a California address.
Privacy and immigration concerns
This is the question we get asked most often. California law (Vehicle Code section 12801.9) specifically restricts how AB 60 information can be used. The DMV cannot share AB 60 application data for the purpose of immigration enforcement, and information collected to issue the license is treated as confidential. Insurance carriers don’t report AB 60 status to immigration authorities, and they don’t ask about your immigration status when you apply for a policy. They ask about your driving record, your address, your vehicle, and the basics needed to rate the policy. That’s it.
How carriers treat AB 60 licenses for insurance
Once you have the license, you’re a California-licensed driver from the carrier’s point of view. Your rate is based on the same factors as anyone else: years of driving experience, accidents and tickets on your record, the car you drive, your zip code, your annual mileage, and the coverages you choose. There’s no separate “AB 60 rate.” If you’ve been driving on a foreign license for years and just switched to AB 60, some carriers will give you credit for that prior experience, and some won’t. We know which ones do, and we’ll match you with one when it makes sense.
What you’ll need to get a quote
Your AB 60 license number, the year/make/model and VIN of the car you want to insure, your California address, and a basic rundown of any accidents or tickets in the last few years. If you also have an ITIN, that helps for billing setup with certain carriers, but it isn’t required to get quoted.
Why work with us
Not every agent in California is comfortable writing AB 60 policies, and not every carrier offers competitive rates for AB 60 license holders even though state law requires them to be available. We’ve been writing these policies since the law took effect in 2015, and we know which carriers offer fair rates and good service to AB 60 drivers. That’s the whole point of going through an independent broker rather than a single-carrier agent: we shop the market for you.
Don’t Own a Car? No Problem.
You don’t need to own a vehicle to get insured. Many of our clients drive cars owned by friends, family, employers, or roommates. If this is you, you could:
- Get added as a driver on the owner’s policy.
- Opt for a non-owner insurance policy, which provides liability protection when you borrow or rent vehicles.
Non-owner policies are essential if you frequently drive but don’t own a car. They work well for students, travelers, and temporary residents, and we’ll help you figure out which option fits you best.
Planning to Get a California License Soon?
If switching to a California license is on your to-do list, you don’t have to wait to purchase insurance. Start your policy now using your existing documentation, and we’ll update it when your new license comes through.
Some insurers offer discounts for switching to a California license later. We’ll make sure you take advantage of those savings when the time comes.
It helps to work with a provider like IIS Insurance Services who can walk you through everything that might be required now, as well as in the future when you get your license. We’ll simplify the process and handle the details for you.
Do International Drivers Pay More?
Insurance rates can get tricky, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Final rates will depend on factors like your age, vehicle, location, and driving history.
That said, drivers with California licenses might get slightly better deals because insurers have more data to evaluate.
But that doesn’t mean you’re automatically stuck paying higher rates with a foreign license.
At IIS Insurance Services, we compare multiple companies to get you the most competitive rates, saving you from overpaying. We also help you avoid the mistakes that drive prices up, like inaccurate or incomplete information.
How Insurance Companies Evaluate Holders of a Foreign Driver's License and International Driver's License
When applying for auto insurance with a foreign or international license, insurance companies evaluate risk differently than they do for long-term U.S. drivers. The main challenge is limited domestic driving history. Without a California record, insurers rely on documentation, driving background, and intended length of stay.
A foreign driver or international driver may be eligible for many of the same coverages offered to California-licensed drivers, but acceptance varies by carrier. Some insurers focus on short-term visitors, while others are more flexible with students, workers, or new residents.
Providing accurate information helps insurers issue a compliant car insurance policy that meets state standards. Even without a California license, coverage is often available when documentation is clear and expectations are set upfront.
How your home country driving history can help
Most of the insurance companies we work with will credit your driving and insurance history from your home country. If you have years of clean driving back home, bring proof of it, such as an official driving record or a letter from your previous insurance company. It can help lower your starting rate. What each company accepts varies, so we’ll tell you exactly what to bring before you finalize a policy.
Coverage Requirements and Accident Protection for International Drivers
In California, car insurance is required for anyone driving legally on public roads. This rule applies regardless of where your license was issued. Minimum liability coverage must be active at all times.
Beyond minimums, many international drivers choose broader coverages to protect themselves in the event of an accident. Collision and comprehensive coverage help manage repair costs, while uninsured motorist coverage adds protection if another driver lacks insurance.
Understanding how claims work is especially important for drivers new to U.S. insurance systems. Claims are handled through your insurer, not the DMV or police. Choosing a policy with clear claims support reduces confusion during stressful situations.
Some policies are designed for short term stays, while others can transition smoothly if you later obtain a California license. Selecting the right structure from the start as a holder of a foreign driver’s license helps avoid policy changes or coverage gaps.
Real Stories from Global Drivers
Here are just a few examples of how we have helped international drivers get insured in California:
Vijay from India
Vijay moved to the Bay Area for a tech job. He had an Indian driver’s license and needed insurance before registering his vehicle. We helped him find a carrier that accepted his license and offered full coverage.
Camila from Brazil
Camila came to California for a university exchange program. She borrowed a car from her host family and needed insurance for the school year. We issued a non-owner liability policy that kept her covered the entire time.
Yuki from Japan
Yuki moved to Los Angeles and was in the process of applying for a California license. She needed to drive her leased vehicle in the meantime. We started her policy using her international license and later updated it when she got her local license.
Why Work with IIS Insurance Services?
California has plenty of insurance companies to choose from. You could try to find affordable auto insurance with a foreign or international license on your own.
But there are a few important reasons why you should work with IIS Insurance Services instead.
For starters, we work with carriers who welcome foreign and international drivers (and don’t treat them like just another hassle to deal with). We’ll work hard to dig up the best rates possible so you don’t spend a dollar more than necessary.
Because of this, we make getting insured simple, fast, and hassle-free. Need to update your policy? Easy. We’ll handle it. And we provide coverage across all major California cities, so you can enjoy peace of mind no matter where you live.
At IIS Insurance Services, we understand the challenges you face because we do this every day.
Our friendly and experienced team is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re in San Francisco, Los Angeles, or anywhere in between, you can count on us.
Get Insured Today
If you need car insurance in California with a foreign or international license, don’t waste time hunting for options that may not work for you. With IIS Insurance Services, the process is faster and easier than you might think.
We specialize in helping drivers just like you, ensuring you get reliable coverage without unnecessary roadblocks.
Whether you call us or request a free online quote, you’ll find our process quick and easy. Our team will guide you through every step, answer your questions, and build a policy that fits your situation.
No California license? No problem. We can help, no matter where you call home.
Get a Free Quote Now!Auto Insurance with a Foreign or International License (CA): FAQs
Yes, you can get insured without a California license. Here is how it usually works.
Can I get car insurance in California with a foreign driver’s license?
Yes. Many carriers can insure drivers with valid foreign licenses (and/or an International Driving Permit), even if you don’t have a California license yet.
What’s the difference between a foreign license and an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Your foreign license is your home-country license. An IDP is typically a translation document that helps law enforcement verify your license. You usually carry both together.
Do I still need auto insurance if my foreign license is valid for driving here?
Yes. If you’re driving in California (owning, borrowing, or renting a vehicle), you still need proper insurance that meets California’s requirements.
How long can I drive on a foreign license in California?
Visitors can usually drive for the duration of their stay. If you become a new California resident, you’re generally expected to get a California license within 10 days of becoming a resident.
What documents do I need to get insured?
Commonly: a valid foreign license and/or IDP, passport/ID, a U.S. address where the car is kept, vehicle details (year/make/model/VIN), and basic driving/usage info.
What coverages are available for international drivers?
Typically the same options as other drivers: liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments, depending on the carrier and your situation.
I don’t own a car. Can I still get coverage?
Yes. You may be able to be added to the owner’s policy, or you can consider a non-owner policy for liability protection when borrowing or renting vehicles.
Will I pay more if I don’t have a California license yet?
Sometimes, but not always. Rates depend on many factors (vehicle, ZIP code, history, etc.). The big win is working with carriers that actually accept foreign/international documentation without punishing you for it.
Do insurance rules differ between states?
Yes. States have different insurance laws, which is why California-specific coverage matters.
What happens if I am involved in an accident?
Your insurer handles the claim. Having proper coverage helps manage repairs, medical costs, and liability.
Can I switch policies after getting a California license?
Yes. Many policies can be updated once you receive a local license without starting over.
What is the minimum auto insurance I need to carry in California?
As of January 1, 2025, every driver in California must carry at least $30,000 in bodily injury liability per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 in property damage liability. These limits are commonly written as 30/60/15. They went up from the older 15/30/5 limits under Senate Bill 1107, which was passed in 2022 with a delayed effective date. The 30/60/15 numbers are the legal floor, not a recommendation, and most drivers we work with carry more.
Can I get auto insurance with an AB 60 driver license?
Yes. An AB 60 license is a full California driver license, and carriers in our network treat it the same way they treat any other CA Class C license for quoting purposes. There is no separate AB 60 rate. Your premium is based on the usual factors: driving record, vehicle, address, mileage, and the coverages you choose. We have been writing AB 60 policies since the law took effect in 2015.
Will my immigration status come up when I apply for insurance?
No. Insurance carriers do not ask about immigration status, and they do not share AB 60 or driver license data with immigration authorities. California Vehicle Code section 12801.9 specifically restricts how AB 60 information can be used and treats application data as confidential. The questions you will get from a carrier are about your driving history, your vehicle, and your address. Nothing more.
Can I buy auto insurance with an ITIN instead of a Social Security Number?
Yes. A Social Security Number is not required to buy auto insurance in California. Many of our clients use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for billing setup, and some carriers do not require any tax ID at all. What matters most is your driver license, not your tax ID.
I am in California on an F, J, H, L, or B visa. Can I still get insured on my home country license?
Yes, in most cases. Students, exchange visitors, temporary workers, intracompany transferees, and business or tourist visitors can usually be insured on a foreign license, especially during the first months after arrival. Some carriers prefer to also see an International Driving Permit on file, particularly if your license is not in English. We work with carriers who are comfortable writing policies for visa-holder drivers.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to get insurance in California?
Not always. An IDP is a translation of your home country license, not a license itself. Some carriers will write a policy on a foreign license alone. Others prefer to see an IDP alongside it, especially if the original license uses a non-Latin alphabet. If you have one already, bring it. If you do not, we will match you with a carrier that does not require it.