Steps to Get Auto Insurance

If you're a Latin American migrant living in Texas, getting car insurance can be confusing. This guide will walk you through the process as you familiarize yourself with U.S. and Texas laws.

Remember, you can compare insurance options in the U.S. to go from uncertainty to confidence on the road.

What Should I Consider Before Buying Auto Insurance?

Every state has a legal minimum liability coverage. In Texas, for example, the law requires at least:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 per accident (if multiple people)
• $25,000 for property damage
  These minimums help cover third-party costs if you’re at fault in a crash.

Your immigration and driving status

• If you hold a foreign driver’s license, many insurers will accept it for a limited period (often up to one year), especially if you also have an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• If you are undocumented, your ability to get a U.S. driver’s license depends on the state. Many insurers in Texas may refuse policies if you lack a valid license.
• In some states (but not Texas at present) undocumented immigrants may be eligible for driver’s licenses; in those states, auto insurance is more accessible.

Your driving record (even abroad)

Insurance companies often treat newcomers as “new drivers” because your driving history from Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Guinea Ecuatorial, Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, or Mexico usually does not transfer to the U.S. system.

Alternative coverage options

• Some insurers allow you to buy a policy even without a license, by listing a licensed driver as the primary policyholder.
• Insurtech companies (such as Sigo Seguros) have emerged in Texas to serve the immigrant community — offering bilingual support and policies that don’t rely on credit scores.
• Local Hispanic-owned insurance agencies like Fred Loya (based in Texas) may be more flexible in accepting alternative ID forms.

Before you sign anything, compare multiple quotes (at least 3) and read the fine print.

How to Actually Obtain Auto Insurance?

The process can be broken down into digestible steps. Below is a list, followed by a detailed table for clarity.

• Gather all necessary documentation
• Find insurers that serve non-citizens or new drivers
• Submit your application / quote request
• Review and accept a policy
• Maintain your coverage and renew on time

Here’s a comparison table of what documents you may need depending on your status:

Describing Each Step in Detail

1. Gather all necessary documentation
   Collect all IDs (passport, consular IDs, foreign driver’s license, IDP) and proof of Texas residence (utility bills, lease, bank statements). Also gather your car’s registration or title and any prior insurance history you might have (even from your home country).
2. Find insurers that accept your status
   Search local bilingual agencies or insurtech companies (like Sigo Seguros) that advertise immigrant-friendly policies. Ask whether they accept foreign licenses or alternative IDs. La Familia Auto Insurance in Texas is another agency that explicitly accepts non-citizen clients and non-standard driver situations.
3. Submit quote requests
   Apply online or in person. Provide all documentation and truthfully disclose your current driving status. Request quotes from at least 3 different insurers to compare rates and coverage options.
4. Review policy offers for coverage and price
   Look at the liability limits, whether collision or comprehensive coverage is included, any deductibles, and whether there are exclusions (e.g. non-licensed drivers). Pay attention to whether your policy covers uninsured motorists (important in Texas where many drive uninsured).
5. Accept and finalize your policy
   Sign the agreement, pay your premium (some plans allow monthly payment), and ensure you receive proof of insurance. You must carry this proof while driving.
6. Maintain and renew your coverage
   Don’t cancel early; stay insured continuously to avoid lapse penalties. If your status changes—say you obtain a U.S. license—notify your insurer immediately to possibly reduce your rate.

You’ve now got a roadmap to obtaining auto insurance in Texas as a Latin American migrant. It may take patience and communication, but with the right documentation and by exploring immigrant-friendly insurers, you can drive legally and with confidence.

As you start comparing your options, you can compare auto insurance quotes in the U.S. right now at compare online auto insurance quotes.