Can You Get Car Insurance Without a Driver’s License in Illinois?

Yes, in many cases you can. You can buy insurance on a car you own even if you do not have a driver’s license. The insurance company will want to know who drives the car instead.

Here is how it works in Illinois, and what changed for many drivers in 2024.

Why would you need car insurance without a license?

More people need this than you might think. Here are the most common reasons we hear:

You own the car, but your spouse or your son drives it.
Your license is suspended and you want the car covered while you sort it out.
You moved here from another country and do not have an Illinois license yet.
You are learning to drive and have a car waiting for you.
In each of these, the car needs coverage even if you are not the one behind the wheel.

Who has to be the driver on the policy?

The company needs a licensed driver listed as the main driver of the car. That is usually someone in your home who drives it most.

Some companies also let you name yourself as an owner who does not drive. Rules for this change from one company to the next. That is why it helps to have an agent check a few of them for you.

Can you use a license from another country?

Some insurance companies accept a license from another country. Others ask for an Illinois license before they give you a price.

If you have a foreign license, bring it with you. We can tell you which companies will take it and which ones will not.

What changed in Illinois in 2024?

On July 1, 2024, Illinois started giving a standard driver’s license to residents who are not U.S. citizens. It replaced the old Temporary Visitor Driver’s License, called the TVDL. You can read about the change in this WTTW news report.

The new license can also be used as ID, which the TVDL could not. If you have a TVDL, ask the Secretary of State about switching to the new license at your next renewal.

Is it legal to drive without a license?

No. A policy covers the car, but it does not give you the right to drive it. Driving without a valid license in Illinois can lead to tickets, fines and trouble getting insured later.

If your license is suspended, ask us about getting it back. Some drivers need an SR-22 for that step.

 

Getting covered in Schaumburg

Our office is on Roselle Road in Schaumburg, and we help drivers from Streamwood, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates and Elgin. We work with customers in English and in Spanish.

Tell us who owns the car and who drives it. We will look at the companies that fit your situation and show you the options. Read more about our auto insurance in Schaumburg, or call us at (847) 238-3861.