Finding auto insurance for undocumented immigrants in Illinois can seem extremely difficult. However, carrying car insurance coverage is necessary to operate a vehicle legally in Illinois even for non-citizens.
Getting a driver’s license for immigrants without documentation can also be a challenge. Learn more about the options available to receive the documents you need to operate a motor vehicle safely and legally.
How Driver’s Licenses Impact Your Auto Insurance Application
It is possible to obtain a policy from a car insurance company if you don’t have a driver’s license. However, the process can be challenging.
Underwriters may not be able to assess the risk of you as a driver when you don’t have a license. They might not be able to come up with an accurate price to charge for the policy, so they may choose not to offer you one.
Even if the insurer chooses to provide coverage, it might decide not to sell it because you aren’t technically legally driving. This makes the process challenging for people who don’t have the proper documentation.
You may have to shop with different insurance companies to find a carrier willing to write the policy. Otherwise, you need to take steps to try to obtain a legal driver’s license.
Illinois Driver’s License Laws for Undocumented Immigrants
Currently, Illinois is one of a handful of states that allows illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses. This makes obtaining car insurance a little easier for people with a non legal immigration status in Illinois' immigrant communities.
In June 2023, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation allowing eligible individuals to receive a standard driver’s license. In the past, people without the necessary legal status could only apply for temporary visitor driver’s licenses.
The law took effect in July 2024 and offers a four-year validity period. It does not require the immigrant without the proper documentation to have a Social Security Number (SSN).
However, without the Social Security Number, it doesn’t comply with federal requirements for licenses under the REAL ID program. For example, because it doesn’t follow federal limits and guidelines, people who receive it cannot use it to board airplanes. However, it is a valid license in Illinois for all aspects of operating a motor vehicle and seeking an insurance policy from an insurer.
The Steps for Getting a Drivers License for an Undocumented Immigrant
Several steps are required for an undocumented immigrant to purchase car insurance coverage. As you go through these steps, understand that the Illinois secretary of state cannot legally pass your information to an immigration agent. The law protects the individual applying from the consequences of not having the proper documentation.
Step 1 - Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to participate in this program, an undocumented immigrant must prove that they’ve been living in Illinois for at least a year. You can use rental agreements, utility bills, or any official governmental mail to prove residency. Make sure the items have a date and address on them.
You must pass any tests required to be a legal driver, including a written, eye, and road test. You’ll also have to pay the application fee for the standard driver’s license.
Step 2 - Required Documentation
When undocumented immigrants apply for an Illinois driver’s license, they must show eligibility. The requirements may include:
- Foreign passport as a form of identification
- Consular card or consular identification card
- Proof of Illinois residency
- Proof of auto insurance
You need to find an insurance company that provides car insurance for illegal immigrants in Illinois without a driver’s license. You might be able to pay for a policy that excludes you as a driver until you have your license. Once you have the license, change the policy to include you.
Understanding Auto Insurance for Undocumented Immigrants
When looking for auto insurance for undocumented immigrants in Illinois, you might wonder if you have to pay a higher rate. Insurance companies licensed to operate in the state won’t typically charge more money just because people don’t have the proper documentation.
An insurance provider tends to rely on your driving history and any history of traffic violations to set rates. However, not all insurance companies operate on the same criteria. It’s crucial to receive car insurance quotes from a few different carriers to ensure you receive the best possible price for coverage.
Understanding Premiums and Deductibles
If you are unfamiliar with how insurers charge you for auto insurance, you must understand premiums and deductibles.
The premium is the price you pay to hold the car insurance policy. You might pay the insurance premium monthly, twice a year, or once yearly. The cost of the premium depends on the type of insurance coverage under the policy and the deductible amounts you choose.
The car insurance deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before the policy will pay you any money on your claim. Select a higher deductible amount if you want to save money on your premium. When choosing the right deductible for your needs, consider how much you can pay out of pocket after an accident.
Different Types of Car Insurance Coverage
You can select different types of coverage for your auto insurance policy, each of which can affect the cost. They can include:
- Liability coverage
- Collision coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- UM/UIM coverage
To operate a vehicle legally in Illinois, you must have liability coverage at a minimum. This type of insurance policy pays for expenses and medical bills for other victims if you cause an accident.
To protect your own finances, you may want to have collision coverage. If you or another person caused an accident, this policy pays for damage to your vehicle.
A comprehensive policy adds protection for damage done to your vehicle during a theft attempt or vandalism. If you only have collision coverage, you won’t receive this kind of financial protection.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is important as an added level of protection. The UM/UIM policy pays you if the other driver is underinsured or uninsured.
Factors That Influence Car Insurance Rates
When obtaining price quotes for auto insurance for undocumented immigrants in Illinois, it’s helpful to understand the exact factors that influence rates. Many of these items affect immigrants without documentation and U.S. citizens in the same way.
Younger drivers in their 20s will pay higher premiums than older drivers. People in their 50s typically pay the lowest premiums.
You may pay a higher premium based on the location of your home with the state. People who live in more rural areas will pay less insurance premiums than those who live in the heart of Chicago, for example.
The type of vehicle you own and drive affects insurance premium costs. If you have a more expensive car, you’ll pay more to protect it because you’ll have a costlier repair bill after an accident. Some brands and models of vehicles are more likely to be stolen, which drives up the cost of auto insurance coverage.
Safe driving records also play a significant role in the cost of a policy. People with numerous traffic tickets or past accident claims will pay more for premiums. Licensed drivers who follow local traffic laws are more likely to drive safer and keep the roads safer.
Trust Insurance Navy for the Best Car Insurance Quote
You can trust Insurance Navy to help you find the best policy for your needs. We provide coverage options regardless of the level of risk involved. We’re here to assist with auto insurance for undocumented immigrants in Illinois.
With Insurance Navy, you receive the lowest rates and the best service. We have licensed agents in more than 25 locations throughout the state. You can buy your policy online and receive instant proof of coverage.
To learn more or to receive a free online car insurance quote, click on get a quote below or call us at (888) 949-6289 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our experts are willing to answer any questions you may have about car insurance coverage—just ask one of our insurance agents!
Can an Undocumented Immigrant Buy a Car?
Yes, illegal immigrants can purchase a car with a valid driver’s license, covered policy, and proof of residency. Some banks might also need a list of references for a loan.
Is It Legal for a Person To Drive a Car Without Insurance in Illinois?
No, operating a motor vehicle without being insured is not legal. Uninsured drivers could receive traffic tickets and criminal charges for driving a car without insurance in Illinois.
Is It Possible To Find Affordable Car Insurance Coverage for My Vehicle in Illinois?
Shopping around is the best way to find cheap Illinois car insurance. By receiving quotes from several different providers, you’ll be able to determine which one best fits your budget.
Is Car Insurance for Immigrants More Expensive?
Obtaining auto insurance for undocumented immigrants in Illinois doesn’t have to be expensive. Our experts at Insurance Navy work to provide the lowest prices and the best service.
