Check with your current insuror for international auto insurance coverage

Ask your agent if you can add international auto insurance coverage to your current policy and find out about the additional cost.

I recommend: Some well known larger national auto insurance companies like Geico offer additional international car insurance coverage, and you can get coverage for the duration of your trip overseas. Compare international automobile insurance rates and coverage however. Although you may be happy with your current car insurance coverage and like the international auto insurance coverage they offer, know that you may find cheaper rates and/or better coverage with a competitor or those insurance companies specializing in international auto insurance, such as Clements International, Mexpro or The Insurance Exchange Online international auto insurance companies.

Learn about driving laws and international vehicle insurance

Realize that your driving might be restricted as a non-citizen, and some countries don't allow women to drive or limit their driving privileges, which also affects what type of international vehicle insurance coverage you can get. Several countries, such as some in the Middle East, have extreme penalties for intoxicated drivers since local religions forbid alcohol (and other substance) use. Germany also has strict "driving while under the influence" laws. Ask your insurance agent about international auto insurance and restricted driving. Find out whether or not they are familiar with the country's driving laws and how they pertain to international vehicle insurance requirements. If your agent doesn't know this information, make sure they know and work with an underwriter who is familiar with your destination country, its driving laws and its international car insurance regulations and rules.

I recommend: Familiarize yourself with the laws, religions and customs of your destination country. Check with tourism networks and government websites, such as the U.S. Department of State site to find out about road safety overseas and other information. Also, check with U.S. embassies abroad (see websites, such as Embassy of the United States: Japan).

Understand limitations of international car insurance coverage

Each country not only has its own laws and regulations pertaining to driving but also related to insurance coverage. For instance, in France, you must display your "proof of insurance" card or I.D. at all times. Many international car insurance policies don't cover car accidents due to acts of war. It's a good idea to buy other types of insurance to go with your international auto insurance while abroad, such as kidnap, ransom and extortion insurance, which also covers individuals who are victims of hijackings. You'll find that some International online auto insurance companies specializing in car insurance abroad also provide this type of insurance.

I recommend: Be sure and ask about worldwide car insurance coverage for family members who may travel with you (e.g. teens) as well. International online auto insurance is also available for this type of coverage. Check on your international automotive insurance coverage with your insurance company or other companies like AIG or New York International Group for additional types of coverage to compliment your international auto insurance (e.g. war zone and terrorism coverage or kidnapping insurance).