Expat car insurance in Texas

[1275GT]

Evening all, I have recently moved to Dallas, Texas from London and am likely to be here for a couple of years. After a few weeks of looking for the right car I placed a deposit on a mint 2012 Shelby GT500 this weekend (when in Rome, etc!).

Now the fun bit is going to be insuring it - any of you expats out there got any recommendations of insurance companies which might not be too painful? It appears as a new resident in the USA I will be treated like a new driver... I intend to get my Texas licence in the next few weeks.

Thanks!

[bridgdav]

You need a license, obviously..

Some states have reciprocal agreement with foreign insurance companies, allowing previous policies to be considered. They do not however in North Carolina. I had a Ford Taurus as my first car 5 years ago.

Policies run for 6 months only in USA. My first premium considered as a new driver was just short of $1400 for the 6 months. Single car household, garaged, 12,000 miles per annum, age 42.

I was shocked at the high price. It reduce steadily after 1 year, by $200 every Renewel.
After 5 years we now have 2 cars, nor being a new 2015 mustang GT and a 2 yr old Focus. Total premium is $1200/ year.

I've ot no idea what they will charge for your choice of car, but be prepared... Enjoy..!

[1275GT]

Thanks for the reply - I am anticipating it to be pricey!

Did you use one of the bigger companies, State Farm, Geico etc. or use a smaller more local one?

[Matt Harper]

I'm in FL and now a US citizen, but my view is that auto insurance is totally outrageous in terms of cost if you opt for good coverage - you can specify the level of cover you are comfortable with.

To insure a 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack and a 1992 Ford F150 costs us $1715 per annum for 300/200/200 with Travelers of Florida - we are mid 50's accident/conviction free, both garaged, ultra safe zip code. It's a piss take.

Prepare for a significant wallet lightening - with a car like that, you will pay through the ying-yang.

[bridgdav]

1275GT said:

Thanks for the reply - I am anticipating it to be pricey!

Did you use one of the bigger companies, State Farm, Geico etc. or use a smaller more local one?

I used Auto Owners insurance. They were connected to Wells Fargo bank in some way, soil was advised to get a quote from them. By far they have always given me the lowest rate and best service. My wife had a small claim a couple of years ago. No issues, rental car, all work done, payout was immediate. I bet it differs state to state though.

http://www.auto-owners.com

Good luck..!

[mwyatt82]

I used century 21 through the AIG international program (I paid a fee to join). Was able to use my UK licence for one year and then dropped them for Progressive once I had a U.S licence.

[madtoro]

As above, 21st Century through the AIG expat program is the best way until you have a licence and some level of credit history.