10 Best Auto Insurance Providers for International Students in 2025

The top picks overall of the best auto insurance providers for international students are State Farm, USAA, and Progressive, offering exceptional rates starting at just $22. These companies stand out due to their tailored coverage options, extensive customer support, and valuable discounts specifically designed for the needs of international students. 

State Farm leads with the most competitive rates and comprehensive benefits, making it the best choice for students seeking both affordability and reliable protection. 

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Auto Insurance Providers for International Students

By choosing any of these providers, international students can enjoy peace of mind while studying in the U.S. If you plan to use a car while studying in America, you will need auto insurance. We’ll help you find the top auto insurance providers for international students.

If you’re just looking for coverage to drive legally, enter your ZIP code above to compare cheap auto insurance quotes near you.

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#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Good Student Discount: State Farm offers a substantial good student auto insurance discount of up to 25%, making it an attractive option for international students with excellent academic records.
• Multi-Car Discount: State Farm car insurance review provides a significant multi-car discount of up to 20%, allowing families or roommates to save on their auto insurance premiums.
• Vanishing Deductible Feature: State Farm stands out with its vanishing deductible feature, enabling policyholders to reduce their deductible over time if they maintain a clean driving record.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Rates: While State Farm offers various discounts, some customers may find that their base rates are relatively higher compared to other providers.
• Limited Online Convenience: State Farm’s online services might not be as extensive as some competitors, potentially impacting the convenience for tech-savvy customers.

#2 – USAA: Best for Safe-Driving Discounts

Pros

• Good Student Discount: USAA car insurance review provides a good student discount of up to 15%, making it an attractive choice for students with strong academic performance.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company offers a multi-car discount of up to 10%, providing additional savings for families or individuals insuring multiple vehicles.
• Safe-Driving Discounts: USAA focuses on safe-driving discounts, rewarding policyholders for maintaining a good driving record with potential premium reductions.

Cons

• Eligibility Restrictions: USAA membership is limited to military members, veterans, and their families, making it inaccessible to the general public.
• Limited Physical Locations: USAA primarily operates online and through phone services, which may be a drawback for customers who prefer in-person interactions.

#3 – Progressive: Best for Multi-Policy Discounts

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Progressive offers a generous good student discount of up to 20%, making it an appealing option for academically successful international students.
• Multi-Policy Discounts: Progressive car insurance review provides multi-policy discounts of up to 12%, encouraging customers to bundle auto insurance with other policies for additional savings.
• Varied Coverage Options: Progressive stands out for offering diverse coverage options, allowing customers to customize their policies according to their specific needs.

Cons

• Slightly Higher Rates: Progressive’s rates may be slightly higher for certain customer profiles, potentially making it less competitive in terms of pricing.
• Customer Service Feedback: Some customer reviews suggest varied opinions on Progressive’s customer service, with occasional concerns raised about responsiveness and claim handling.

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#4 – Allstate: Best for Bundle Discounts

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Allstate offers a good student discount of up to 20%, providing cost savings for students with good academic standing.
• Multi-Car Discount: Allstate car insurance review provides a multi-car discount of up to 15%, making it an appealing choice for families or individuals insuring multiple vehicles.
• Bundle Discounts: Allstate offers bundle discounts, allowing customers to save by combining multiple insurance policies such as auto and home insurance.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Premiums: Some customers may find Allstate’s base premiums to be relatively higher compared to other providers, affecting the overall cost of coverage.
• Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Customer reviews suggest varied opinions on Allstate’s customer service, with both positive and negative feedback, indicating inconsistent experiences.

#5 – Nationwide: Best for Customizable Policies

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Nationwide provides a good student discount of up to 15%, making it an attractive option for students excelling academically.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company offers a multi-car discount of up to 10%, providing additional savings for households with multiple vehicles.
• Customizable Policies: Nationwide allows customers to customize their policies, tailoring coverage to meet individual needs and preferences.

Cons

• Average Customer Satisfaction: While Nationwide maintains a solid reputation, some customer reviews suggest average satisfaction levels, indicating room for improvement in customer service.
• Limited Local Agents: Nationwide may have fewer local agents compared to some competitors, potentially affecting accessibility for customers who prefer face-to-face interactions.

#6 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Comprehensive Coverage

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Liberty Mutual car insurance review offers a substantial-good student discount of up to 22%, making it an appealing choice for students with strong academic performance.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company provides a multi-car discount of up to 13%, offering savings for households with multiple vehicles.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Liberty Mutual stands out for providing comprehensive coverage options, allowing customers to tailor their policies to specific needs.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Rates for Some: Liberty Mutual’s rates may be higher for certain customer profiles, potentially making it less competitive in terms of pricing.
• Mixed Customer Reviews: Some customers have expressed mixed opinions about Liberty Mutual’s customer service and claims handling, suggesting variability in experiences.

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#7 – Farmers: Best for Local Agents

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Farmers car insurance review provide a good student discount of up to 15%, making it an attractive option for students with strong academic performance.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company offers a multi-car discount of up to 10%, providing additional savings for households insuring multiple vehicles.
• Local Agents: Farmers stands out for its network of local agents, offering personalized assistance and in-person support for customers who prefer face-to-face interactions.

Cons

• Potentially Higher Premiums: Some customers may find Farmers’ base premiums to be relatively higher compared to other providers, impacting overall affordability.
• Mixed Reviews on Claims Process: Customer reviews suggest mixed opinions about the claims process, with some expressing satisfaction and others facing challenges, indicating variability in experiences.

#8 – AAA: Best for Policy Options

Pros

• Good Student Discount: AAA auto insurance review offers a good student discount of up to 10%, providing cost savings for students excelling academically.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company provides a multi-car discount of up to 11%, allowing households with multiple vehicles to save on their premiums.
• Policy Options: AAA stands out for offering various policy options, allowing customers to choose coverage that aligns with their specific needs.

Cons

• Membership Requirements: AAA requires membership for access to its insurance services, limiting availability to individuals who are part of the AAA club.
• Potentially Higher Rates for Some: AAA’s rates may be higher for certain customer profiles, potentially making it less competitive in terms of pricing.

#9 – Travelers: Best for Online Convenience

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Travelers offers a good student discount of up to 12%, making it an attractive option for academically successful international students.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company provides a multi-car discount of up to 9%, allowing households with multiple vehicles to save on their auto insurance premiums.
• Online Convenience: Travelers car insurance review emphasize online convenience, making it easy for customers to manage policies, make payments, and access information through digital platforms.

Cons

• Mixed Customer Reviews: Customer reviews suggest varied opinions about Travelers’ customer service, with both positive and negative feedback, indicating inconsistent experiences.
• Limited Local Presence: Travelers may have a limited local presence compared to some competitors, potentially affecting accessibility for customers who prefer in-person interactions.

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#10 – Esurance: Best for 24/7 Support

Pros

• Good Student Discount: Esurance auto insurance review provides a good student discount of up to 15%, making it an appealing choice for academically successful international students.
• Multi-Car Discount: The company offers a multi-car discount of up to 10%, providing savings for households with multiple vehicles.
• 24/7 Support: Esurance stands out for offering 24/7 support, ensuring that customers can access assistance at any time, day or night.

Cons

• Mixed Customer Reviews: Customer reviews suggest varying opinions about Esurance’s customer service, with both positive and negative feedback, indicating variability in experiences.
• Potential Higher Rates for Some: Esurance’s rates may be higher for certain customer profiles, potentially impacting overall affordability.

Illustrating Top 10 Auto Insurance Providers for International Students

When considering auto insurance options for international students, examining the rates of the top 10 providers becomes crucial. State Farm and USAA offer affordability with full coverage rates at $86 and $59 per month, respectively. For those seeking a balance between cost and coverage, these options present themselves as prudent choices, especially for students on a budget.

Auto Insurance Monthly Rates for International Students by Coverage Level & Provider

On the higher end, Liberty Mutual stands out with a premium offering at $174 per month for full coverage, providing potential additional benefits that may cater to specific needs. Examining the middle ground, AAA and State Farm share similar full coverage plans at $86 per month, but with different minimum coverage costs of $32 and $33, respectively.

Travelers offering full coverage at $99 and Esurance at $114 per month. Farmers, Progressive, Nationwide, and Allstate complete the list with varying rates, giving international students a range of choices to consider based on their financial capacity and coverage requirements. Delve deeper into our comprehensive guide titled “Top Full Coverage Auto Insurance: What You Need to Know”

Students need to conduct a thorough assessment of their needs and budget while taking into account the specifics of each provider’s coverage. By doing so, international students can make informed decisions that align with their unique circumstances, ensuring they have reliable and affordable auto insurance during their time in the United States.

Before International Students Can Get Insurance, They Need a License

You need insurance to drive legally in the U.S., but that’s not all you need. Before you can get insurance coverage, you must be licensed to drive in America. There are a couple of ways to accomplish this.

Rules in the U.S. if You Have a Foreign Driver’s License

Most states allow you to use your home country’s driver’s license for a short period, provided you also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP). This document translates the data on your current license into a form acceptable in America, and you cannot drive without it.

If you are a student traveling from the U.S. to a foreign country, you can convert your home country driver’s license into an IDP at the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA).

International students coming to America must obtain their IDP in their home country to continue using their home driver’s license. While you can use your driver’s license and IDP for some time, eventually, you will need to get a U.S. driver’s license to drive legally and obtain auto insurance coverage to rent or purchase a vehicle while studying in America.

Read more:

• Do you have to have a driver’s license to buy auto insurance?
• Do you need Auto Insurance for a driver who only has a permit?

How to Get a U.S. Driver’s License

This process is somewhat more difficult for an international student, so it is wise to do your research and get your paperwork in order. Use this information as a guide to help you obtain your U.S. driver’s license.

There Will be a Lot of Paperwork

First, determine if you are eligible for a U.S. driver’s license by checking U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies to confirm your lawful status. Each state has its own rules and regulations, so make sure you are informed of the specific requirements. 

Your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) can assist you with this step. You must activate a Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) record and be in the U.S. for at least 10 days before applying for a license. The local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may require several documents, which must be completed and in good standing.

Stay in touch with your DSO to avoid missing any filing deadlines. Verify that your personal information is accurate and matches all your paperwork. Keeping track of these details will help ensure you get your license when you need it.

You Will Have to Pass the Tests

Once you have submitted all the necessary forms and documents, you will need to pass a series of exams to be licensed to drive in the U.S. Although details vary by state, you will generally be tested in three key areas. First, you must pass a vision test to ensure you can see well enough to drive.

Next is the written test, which can be tricky. Study the specific rules of the road in your area using resources from the local Department of Motor Vehicles. You may be able to request the test in your native language or use a translator. Finally, you must pass the driving test, demonstrating various driving skills and safe navigation.

Each state has its own requirements, but you should be prepared for basics and specialty situations like parallel parking. After receiving your license, you can legally drive in the United States. However, you must have auto insurance to drive, which you can obtain from top auto insurance providers by state.

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How to Get Auto Insurance Coverage as an International Student

With a few very specific exceptions, before anyone can drive a car in America, that car must be covered by auto insurance. There are several ways to obtain coverage as an international student, so let’s have a look.

Non-Owners Insurance is Good for Renters

International students often borrow cars from friends or host families, which are usually covered by the owner’s insurance policy as long as you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and a valid driver’s license.

However, if the owner’s insurance does not cover you, you can use non-owners insurance. These policies are more affordable than traditional auto insurance, designed for drivers who don’t operate vehicles daily or only use a car for short periods. This is ideal for international students.

For international students who frequently rent cars in the U.S., non-owners insurance can be a more affordable option than the expensive insurance offered by rental companies. This coverage ensures protection without the high costs, making it suitable for students living temporarily in the U.S.

Read more: Top Non-Owners Car Insurance Coverage: What You Need to Know

Short-Term Insurance Works Well When You Borrow a Car

When attending school in the U.S. as an international student, you may find yourself traveling back and forth from your home country on a regular basis. If so, you will not want to be committed to an auto insurance policy over a long period of time. In this circumstance, a short-term policy can be the best car insurance for international students in the USA.

Rather than the standard six- to twelve-month terms usually offered by auto insurance providers, short-term car insurance policies cover much briefer periods. You can get short-term car insurance coverage for daily use, and up to six months at a time. If you plan to use the host family’s vehicle during your stay, they can purchase a short-term policy to keep you covered while you drive. (For more information, read our “What is short-term Auto Insurance?“).

Traditional Policy When You Buy Your Own Vehicle

If you are committed to your international studies for the long haul and are planning to remain in America for a significant amount of time, you may be thinking of purchasing your own car. Once you have endured the procedure of obtaining your U.S. driver’s license, you will be eligible to buy a car. In order to do that, you will need to obtain a standard auto insurance policy.

The Best Car Insurance for International Students in the U.S.A.

Each auto insurance provider has its own specialties and reputation. For international students, affordable and quality car insurance is within reach if you know where to look. Fortunately, you have some resources in your search for the best insurance companies for international students.

Your school’s International Student Affairs office can assist you, as can your Designated School Official. If you are living with friends or a host family, reach out to them for their advice on the best insurance for international students. Shopping around and comparing rates will be useful, as will knowing the type and amount of coverage you need.

The Insurance Information Institute explains that you are usually required to carry liability coverage and can choose to upgrade to full coverage should you wish. Comprehensive insurance is the more expensive option, but it does provide you with greater coverage. As an international student, you will often be on a budget; therefore, finding affordable car insurance is beneficial. 

The Best Auto Insurance Companies for You

Determining the best insurance companies for international students depends on several factors. Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to find inexpensive or substandard insurance providers, but the coverage may not be what you need. Often, choosing a well-established car insurance company seems expensive, but it can save you money in the end.

Well-known providers like Geico, State Farm, and AAA offer discounted rates to students who maintain a certain grade standard. Encouraging a focus on schoolwork and catering to student drivers sets these companies apart from the rest. Review our relevant guide “Geico Indemnity Company: Customer Ratings & Reviews” to get a better understanding.

These companies offer low rates for non-owner insurance policies, which may be the best solution for you as a visiting student. They each have reputations for providing quality customer service which can be extremely valuable when purchasing your first auto insurance policy.

Pay attention to your local insurance options as well. There are several high-quality regional insurance providers that may suit you well as an international student. Erie Insurance, operating in parts of the Midwest and Northeast, offers safe driving discounts. They also provide lower rates to drivers with reduced usage. If you plan to return home for the summer and leave your car behind, Erie will factor that into your rates.

Because car insurance rates depend on numerous variables, it is difficult to know who will provide the cheapest insurance for international students. Your age, lack of driving record, and credit history all work against you in this regard. For these reasons, it may be wise to select a major brand as your first car insurance carrier. The student discounts and alternate policy offerings from Geico, State Farm, and AAA make quality car insurance affordable.

Again, there is no one company that offers the cheapest student car insurance. Comparing rates for Geico international student car insurance and State Farm international student car insurance will help you find the best deal.

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Case Studies: Top Auto Insurance Provider for International Students

Navigating auto insurance in a foreign country can be a daunting task for international students. These case studies showcase three top auto insurance providers that tailor their services to meet the specific needs of students from abroad, highlighting the flexibility and comprehensiveness of their offerings.

• Case Study #1– Global Auto Insurance Agency: Mike, an international student in Australia, found the Global Auto Insurance Agency to be uniquely supportive. The agency provides coverage for international driver’s licenses and offers flexible, affordable rates tailored to the duration of a student’s studies.
• Case Study #2– International Student Insurance Corporation: Emily, studying in the UK, chose International Student Insurance Corporation for its specialized policies. This provider offers extensive support for international driver’s licenses, covers medical expenses from accidents, and provides multilingual customer service.
• Case Study #3– Global Student Coverage: Maria from Brazil, seeking comprehensive auto insurance for her studies in the USA, was impressed with Global Student Coverage’s tailored policies focusing on affordability and flexibility. After a minor accident, she benefited from the agency’s efficient, multilingual support, which made the claims process smooth.

As these case studies illustrate, choosing the right auto insurance provider is crucial for international students seeking peace of mind while studying abroad. Providers like Global Auto Insurance Agency, International Student Insurance Corporation, and Global Student Coverage demonstrate a commitment to understanding and meeting the unique challenges faced by students away from home.

By selecting a provider that offers tailored, flexible coverage, international students can ensure they are well-protected throughout their academic journey.

The Bottom Line on Auto Insurance for International Students

When you are living in a new country, many things seem complicated and unfamiliar. Car insurance is no different, but you can navigate this world with a little patience and attention to detail. Whether you are borrowing, renting, or buying a car, once you have decided on the type of policy that best fits your situation you are well on your way. 

The best car insurance for international students offers student discounts and non-traditional policy types and terms. These companies can be found nationwide. To delve deeper, explore our comprehensive guide titled “Compare Insurance Provider Quotes“.

To begin your search for the best insurance companies for international students, enter your ZIP code below.

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