Personal Insurance Blog

Very often we are asked to write auto policies for insureds who have recently immigrated to Massachusetts.  Since auto insurance is compulsory in this state, we are required to write coverage upon request.  To write coverage in this instance we would need evidence of their foreign license.  We would also need documentation from their country indicating the date they were first licensed as well as their driving record in that country.  This documentation must be provided in English.

If the new insured(s) were licensed more than 6 years ago in their country they will be rated as an experienced operator.  If evidence is provided that they had no accidents or incidents they will be given the step 99 credit.  However, if there was a violation or accident out of country or if no documentation is provided, their policy will be issued with a neutral step with no credit applied.

The carriers ask that a MA license be obtained by the first renewal date.  However, they  understand that there may be extenuating circumstances that can delay the issuance of a MA license.  If there is intent shown that they are in the process of obtaining the MA license but need more time as additional information may be required by the Registry, the carriers are usually willing to extend the time frame.