If you are thinking of driving your car to Canada, rest assured that your GEICO insurance will still cover you. While we do not offer insurance to residents of Canada, GEICO's coverage in the United States does extend north of the border.
Please read the following important information if you plan to drive your car into Canada.
Not yet insured with GEICO? Get a free car insurance quote now to see how much you could save.
What do I need to drive my car across the border into Canada?
If you reside in the United States and are planning to drive your car into Canada, you need to have all of the following items on hand when you arrive at the border:
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship – As of June 1, 2009, all travelers, including US citizens 16 years of age or over, are required to have a passport or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security. U.S. citizens under the age of 16 can present their original birth certificate, a copy of their birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card. For more information regarding the travel documents that are needed for entry into Canada (and re-entry into the U.S.), visit the U.S. State Department Travel page for Canada.
- Proof of Auto Insurance – In order to provide proof of auto insurance at the border, your standard GEICO insurance ID card will work. Canadian ID cards are not necessary if you're visiting Canada as a tourist.
If you need new or replacement ID cards, simply log in online and visit the Policy Documents section where you can choose whether you'd like to email, print, or fax a copy. If you haven't registered your policy online yet, you can sign up now. - Vehicle Registration – Drivers must also have their vehicle registration on hand at the border. Border officials are always on the lookout for stolen vehicles or people trying to avoid duties on vehicles purchased outside the country, so it is important to make sure you have your vehicle registration with you.
What can I expect when I reach the Canadian Border?
Upon arriving at the Canadian border services booth, the driver will be required to roll down the front and back windows of the car so that the border officer can speak with everyone in the vehicle.
The Border Services Officer will ask the driver a series of questions. They may ask for the address of the place you will be staying during your trip, how long you plan to stay in Canada, why you're traveling to Canada, or similar questions about your trip. These questions must be answered honestly and directly.
What can I expect when driving in Canada?
Driving in Canada is similar to driving in parts of the United States. However, distances and speeds are posted in kilometers per hour instead of miles per hour.
Some signs, particularly in Quebec, may be in French.
What if I rent a car in the U.S. and want to drive into Canada?
If you plan to drive a car rented in the United States into Canada and back again, check with the rental car company as to whether or not they will allow you to drive the rental car across the border.
If the rental car company allows you to drive in Canada, all the information provided above still applies. Your rental car company can provide you with additional details.
FAQs
If you are thinking of driving your car to Canada, rest assured that your GEICO insurance will still cover you. While we do not offer insurance to residents of Canada, GEICO's coverage in the United States does extend north of the border.
Does my US car insurance cover me in Canada? ›
An American car insurance policy works the same way in Canada as it does in the U.S. Your comprehensive car insurance coverage and auto collision coverage, for example, still apply to damage to your vehicle if you're in an accident while driving in Canada.
Does Canada check for car insurance? ›
In addition to a valid passport or other government-approved travel document, you'll need to carry a valid U.S. driver's license, vehicle registration and proof of car insurance in order to drive legally in Canada.
Which insurance company is best at paying claims in Canada? ›
Best Car Insurance in Canada
The Co-operators is the top-rated car insurance provider in Canada, with other highly rated providers including The Personal, RBC Insurance, and Economical Insurance.
Do I need car insurance to cross into Canada? ›
Canadian law requires U.S. citizens driving into Canada to provide proper proof of motor vehicle insurance. The good news is that both your IMT Insurance Policy includes Canada as part of your coverage territory.
What insurance is required in Canada? ›
While third-party liability, uninsured automobile, and accident benefits insurance are mandatory across the country, there are many optional coverages that you can add to your policy to increase your coverage for an additional cost.
Does Geico cover out of country? ›
GEICO has provided overseas insurance through its affiliate, GEICO Financial Services GmbH since 1960. GEICO Financial Services GmbH acts as your agent and arranges coverage from high quality overseas insurers who are licensed by the country you'll be living in.
How long can I drive in Canada with US insurance? ›
You'll need proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, and a passport (or an approved alternate proof of citizenship) to drive across the border. U.S citizens driving in Canada are generally allowed to drive for up to six months with American car insurance.
What do I need to drive in Canada? ›
To legally drive a car in Canada, you'll need a driver's licence issued by the government of your province or territory. You must have it with you whenever you're driving. With it, you can drive anywhere in Canada.
Can I drive in Canada with a US license? ›
Can you drive in Canada with a US license? US licenses are valid in Canada. When operating a car in Canada, you'll need to have your license, auto insurance, and registration in the vehicle at all times.
Bring Your AAA Card. Did you know your American Automobile Association (AAA) membership is honored in Canada? Through reciprocal arrangements with the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), AAA members can use benefits like roadside assistance and while in Canada.
What car insurance do I need to drive in Canada? ›
It's also worth confirming that all your coverage transfers to Canada: liability, collision, and comprehensive (if you have it). If your visit to Canada will extend beyond 90 days — or if you're moving to Canada — you should purchase a Canadian car insurance policy.
Which auto insurance company denies the most claims? ›
Allstate
We know you have seen the ads. You're in good hands with Allstate. What you may not know is that Allstate CEO Thomas Wilson has admitted that his priority is to make money for shareholders – not you the policyholder. Add increased rates and denied claims to the equation and Allstate is at the top of this list.
What is the most reliable car insurance company in Canada? ›
The best car insurance companies in Canada by price
- SGI Canada.
- Pembridge Insurance.
- Unica Insurance.
- Onlia Insurance.
- Intact Insurance.
- CAA Insurance.
- South Easthope Mutual.
- Echelon Insurance.
Auto Insurance Companies with the Most Complaints
| Company | NAIC Score |
|---|
| California Casualty | 13.16 |
| Metromile | 2.02 |
| National General | 5.57 |
| SafeAuto | 9.12 |
6 more rowsFeb 8, 2023
Overseas insurance is insurance for your car, motorcycle, and personal property that's available while you are living outside of the United States. GEICO has provided overseas insurance through its affiliate, GEICO Financial Services GmbH since 1960.
Does GEICO cover out of country? ›
If you're taking your own car or motorcycle overseas for personal travel, chances are we've got a policy for you! We even offer marine insurance to help cover your vehicle during shipping. Need coverage for your belongings? GEICO can help you with overseas personal property insurance, too!
Is GEICO a Canadian company? ›
The second-largest auto insurance company by market share and the largest direct-sales insurance company in the United States, GEICO is one of the best-known names in car insurance. While they don't sell their products in Canada, their mascot, the GEICO gecko, is famous enough to be known across the border.
