Do international students need US car insurance

International students in the US need car insurance if they plan to drive a car, whether they own it or borrow it. Driving without insurance is illegal in every state and leads to fines, license suspension, and financial risk.

Do international students need US car insurance?

Yes. Any international student who drives a car in the US must have valid auto insurance that meets the minimum coverage required by the state they live in. This applies even if the student has a foreign license or is only borrowing someone else’s vehicle. If a student buys a car, they must show proof of insurance before registering it. If they drive a rented or borrowed car, they still need to make sure the car is insured and that the policy covers them as a driver.

Why insurance is required

• State law: All states require drivers to carry a minimum level of liability insurance. Liability means paying for damage or injuries you cause to others.
• Financial protection: Without insurance, the driver pays all accident costs out of pocket, which can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
• Registration and ownership: You cannot register or legally drive your own car without proof of insurance.

Main types of coverage explained simply

• Liability: Covers other people's injuries and property damage if you cause an accident. This is the minimum required by law.
• Collision: Pays to repair your car after a crash, no matter who is at fault.
• Comprehensive: Covers non-crash damage such as theft, vandalism, fire, or storms.
• Uninsured driver coverage: Protects you if someone hits you but they have no insurance.

Driving with a foreign license or permit

Most states allow driving with a foreign license for a limited time, but insurance companies may still require an International Driving Permit or may charge higher rates. Coverage is still mandatory even if the license is foreign.

When students do not need their own policy

• Using a family member’s insured car: You must be listed as an approved driver on their policy.
• Driving a rental car: You can buy insurance from the rental company at the counter.
• Car-sharing services: Many include basic coverage, but limits may be low, so reading the terms is important.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Assuming your home-country insurance works in the US: It does not.
• Assuming the car owner’s insurance automatically covers you: Some policies exclude non-listed drivers.
• Using only campus ID for verification: Insurers require passport, visa type, and US address.