Car Insurance and Going Outside the US California CA
Reader’s Question:
Can a California driver’s license be used outside the country? Will my car insurance coverage take effect abroad, as well?
Elizabeth
Los Angeles, CA
Having a California driver’s license does not really give you the privilege to drive in public roads outside the United States. If you plan on driving in another country, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you leave. Remember to get your IDP from legitimate agencies. Only the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA) and the American Automobile Association (AAA) are authorized to issue IDPs in America. Always bear this in mind as there are a lot of illegal and unscrupulous entities out there looking to rip off over-eager tourists.
Regarding your car insurance concern, your current insurance coverage may not cover you abroad. This is only typically allowed when driving in countries neighboring America. But inquire from your car insurance agent, anyway. You may also want to ask if there are any possible programs you may avail of to have your coverage be temporarily suspended without having a dangerous insurance gap while you are out of the country. If you will not be covered in other countries, your options would be to obtain short-term non-owners insurance policy in the country you are visiting. If you will be renting cars abroad, you may also obtain car rental insurance from the same company that provides the rental car service.
Tags: auto insurance coverage, non owners insurance, rental car insurance