Texas Minimum Car Insurance Requirements
Texas requires minimum liability coverage: $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage. You must carry proof of insurance at all times while driving.
Driving without insurance in Texas results in fines starting at $175-$350, license suspension, and possible jail time. A second offense within 5 years increases penalties significantly.
Can Immigrants Get a License in Texas?
Texas does NOT issue driver licenses to undocumented immigrants without a valid visa or work authorization. You must prove legal presence to get a Texas license.
However, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS to get an ID card. Visit https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number to apply for an ITIN.
If you have a valid foreign driver license, some Texas insurance companies will insure you without a Texas license. Check with insurers directly about this option.
Best Insurance Options for Immigrants in Texas
Major insurers in Texas that accept ITIN numbers include Allstate, GEICO, State Farm, and Nationwide. Rates vary widely—get quotes from multiple companies to compare.
Bring your passport, visa (if you have one), ITIN, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your vehicle information. Some companies may ask for a foreign license as proof of driving history.
Shopping online is often fastest. You control what information you share—insurance companies are NOT immigration enforcement and do NOT report customers to ICE.
Tips for Immigrant Drivers in Texas
Always carry proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and ID in your car. Texas police may stop you, and you must show insurance or face fines and vehicle impound.
Keep your insurance active continuously. A lapse in coverage can result in license suspension, even for legal drivers.
Your insurance information is protected by federal privacy law (Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act). Insurers cannot share your data with immigration authorities. Buying insurance is safe and legal for everyone.
Contact the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) if an insurer denies you coverage unfairly: https://www.tdi.texas.gov
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $30,000 | Covers injuries you cause to others |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $60,000 | Total per accident limit |
| Property Damage | $25,000 | Covers damage to other vehicles and property |
| Uninsured Motorist (UM) | Optional | Highly recommended in Texas |
| Medical Payments (MedPay) | Optional | Covers your medical bills regardless of fault |
📋 Official Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Texas insurers accept ITIN. See https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number
No. Texas does not issue driver licenses to undocumented immigrants. You need proof of legal presence or valid visa.
Liability only: $30,000 bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage. These are Texas state minimums.
State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, and specialty insurers accept ITIN. Rates vary by profile. Get quotes from multiple companies for best price.
Foreign license alone is not enough for Texas insurance. You need a valid Texas driver license or International Driving Permit plus passport.
