Can You Get Car Insurance Without a Social Security Number?

Obtaining car insurance in the United States often involves providing a Social Security Number (SSN) for identity verification and credit assessments. However, it is possible to secure car insurance coverage even without an SSN, though it may require alternative documentation. Many insurance providers offer options for individuals who do not possess an SSN. This flexibility ensures that drivers can meet the legal requirement for car insurance that exists in most U.S. states.

Accepted Identification Alternatives

For individuals without a Social Security Number, several alternative forms of identification can be used to obtain car insurance. A primary alternative is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a tax processing number issued by the IRS for individuals who need a U.S. taxpayer ID but are not eligible for an SSN. Many insurance companies accept an ITIN in place of an SSN for identity verification and risk assessment purposes.

In addition to an ITIN, foreign passports and international driver’s licenses are frequently accepted as valid forms of identification, particularly for non-residents or recent immigrants. Some insurers may also consider other government-issued foreign IDs. These documents serve primarily to verify an applicant’s identity and, in the case of driver’s licenses, to confirm driving privileges. Car insurance is legally required in most U.S. states, making these alternative documents essential for compliance.

Finding Insurers and Applying

The process of securing car insurance without an SSN begins after gathering the necessary alternative identification documents. Not all insurance companies have uniform policies regarding alternative IDs, so targeted research is often beneficial. Some major insurance providers, such as Progressive, Geico, and The General, are known to offer policies without requiring an SSN.

A practical approach involves contacting local independent insurance agents, who frequently possess knowledge of various carriers’ underwriting guidelines and can help identify insurers accommodating non-SSN applicants. During the application submission, applicants will need to provide their alternative identification, like an ITIN or passport number, along with other standard information. This includes details such as driving history, vehicle information, and residential address. Insurers can verify identity and driving records by utilizing state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) records linked to a driver’s license or, if applicable, international driving records.

Impact on Insurance Costs

The absence of a Social Security Number can influence car insurance premiums, primarily because insurers cannot access traditional U.S. credit scores. Credit scores are a significant factor in determining premiums for many drivers, as they are used to predict the likelihood of future claims. Without an SSN, insurers often rely more heavily on other factors to assess risk and set rates.

Insurers will consider alternative rating factors when a traditional U.S. credit score is unavailable. These include the driver’s history, claims history, vehicle type, geographic location, age, and marital status. Individuals without an SSN may face a higher initial premium due to the lack of an established U.S. financial history. Some insurers may also require full upfront payment or larger down payments for policies. Over time, establishing a consistent U.S. driving record can potentially contribute to more favorable premium calculations.