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International student car insurance

Janelle Vreeland

Iggy pop on a car insurance ad

What international students need to find affordable car insurance

If you plan on driving in the U.S. as an international student, you will definitely need to make sure you have some form of international student car insurance. It may seems confusing and overwhelming to deal with, but if you keep a few major tips in mind you’ll find it a lot easier to navigate the world of international student car insurance and get the protection that you need.

International student car insurance tip: Choose a company that doesn’t penalize international students – as Steven Ellise Enterprise reports, many insurance companies will only offer lower premiums and high coverage to individuals who have driven in the U.S. for at least three years. Unfortunately, there aren’t that many companies who count driving experience in other countries as qualified experience, so do your homework and seek them out. In the long run, you’ll be glad you did.

International student car insurance tip: Look into collision and comprehensive coverage, not just liability – By going with liability insurance, you’re going with the bare, legal minimum, but it only covers passengers or property that you damage in an accident. Collision will cover repairs to your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident and comprehensive will help you recover losses if your car is stolen or destroyed in some other way not related to a crash. Know the differences, as well as the area you’ll be living in, to determine the best coverage for you as an international student.

International student car insurance tip: Look for fixed rates – As Ezine reports, some companies offer fixed rates for a certain length of time, meaning that your rates won’t go up even if you have an accident. Look for the longest period possible!

International student car insurance tip: Have an updated international driver’s license – This will allow you to drive in the U.S. as well as at home with out having to register for just a U.S. license. And make sure that it is valid for at least six months after your stay ends so that you stand a better chance at getting reasonable international student car insurance rates and coverage. 

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