Car insurance for road trips
Your personal auto insurance policy typically covers you in all 50 states and Canada. Whether you're driving cross-country or vacationing in another state, you're protected up to the full extent of your policy's coverages and limits. However, if you plan to drive in Mexico, you need a separate Mexico auto insurance policy.
Explore Progressive Answers' auto editorial guidelines to find out why you can trust the car insurance information you find here.
How does auto insurance work when traveling to different states?
Even though each state has different minimum auto insurance requirements, the coverages on your auto policy will apply in any state. You don't have to let your auto insurer know you're traveling. However, if you permanently relocate to a different state, contact your auto insurer so you can get a new policy for the state in which you reside.
Traveling to Canada
Your auto insurance also usually protects you while driving anywhere in Canada, up to the limits of your policy. If you plan to rent a car in Canada, contact your insurer to find out how your auto policy might extend to a rental vehicle.
Learn more about insurance while driving in Canada.
Traveling to Mexico
Your United States auto insurance policy won't cover you in Mexico. You need a separate and specialized Mexico insurance policy to drive any vehicle in Mexico. Progressive can help you obtain the proper Mexico auto insurance through MexPro.
Find out more about international car insurance and how to rent a car internationally.
Pro tip:
Many auto insurers, including Progressive, offer optional roadside assistance coverage if your vehicle is disabled while you're traveling. This coverage can be used for changing a tire, towing, fuel delivery, and a dead battery.
Will your auto insurance cover drivers not listed on your policy while traveling?
If you plan to let a friend or relative drive your vehicle during your road trip, they may be covered by your auto insurance in the event of an accident. "Permissive use" on your personal auto policy may cover a driver who doesn't regularly use your vehicle.
Do you need travel insurance for a road trip?
Travel insurance is always optional and may not be necessary for short-term road trips. However, if you're taking an extended trip, travel insurance can be worthwhile. If you need to cancel your travel plans due to an unexpected illness, severe weather, or another reason covered by your policy, travel insurance may help reimburse you for financial losses associated with your trip.
Does your auto policy cover a rental car for a road trip?
Regardless of where you're traveling in the United States or Canada, your auto policy's coverages typically extend to most rental cars. Your U.S. auto policy won't cover you or a rented vehicle in Mexico. If you're renting a car in Mexico, inquire about insurance through the rental car company. If you use a credit card to pay for the rental car, your credit card company may provide some form of auto insurance, depending on your card's benefits.
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