How does an exchange student get auto insurance?

Answer:
How you can go about finding auto insurance will depend

on whether or not the state in which you attend school allows exchange students to drive in that state – not all do.

But if your state does allow you to drive, then the first step is to get yourself an International Drivers License (or Permit). You cannot drive in the United States without one, which means you can’t get auto insurance without one.

If you’re only here for a semester, you might consider renting a car and using the rental insurance (especially if you only need the car for a short period of time). Another affordable option is to ask your host family if they will add you to their auto insurance policy, and you can pay them the difference. If you’re attending college, you can apply for a guardian and asked to be added to his/her policy.

Some car insurance companies do offer insurance to foreign exchange students, but it tends to be pricey. You can also check with your university, as some of those will offer auto insurance if you have an International Drivers License.