Moving to the U.S.: Driving, Insurance and Social Security

If you’re done wondering how to move to the U.S. from Canada and have already relocated, there are a few important and timely tasks to help you have a smooth and stress-free transition.

1. Buy a car if you didn’t import one from Canada

If you didn’t bring your car from Canada when you moved to the U.S., chances are you’ll need some wheels to get around. While getting approved for a car loan or lease can be a bit tricky as a Canadian new to the U.S., there are a couple of ways to make it happen. Here’s how to get a car that suits your new needs and lifestyle:

• Find an expat-friendly car dealership. Some dealerships — particularly in cities with many expatriates — have programs to help Canadians buy or lease a car in the U.S. Notably, many European car manufacturers, such as Volkswagen, Porsche and Mercedes, have special programs for foreigners.

• Use an expat car leasing or financing service. Some companies are set up exclusively to help expatriates finance or lease a car in the U.S., though they may charge a premium as a foreign national.

2. Get your U.S. licence and registration

Whether you’ve bought a U.S. vehicle or imported one from Canada, you’ll need to register it and ensure you have a valid U.S. licence to drive it.

To register your car, you’ll need the original title of the vehicle, your Canadian driver’s licence, the bill of sale (if the car is new), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection documents (if you imported your car). Keep in mind that the rules change regularly, so it’s important to learn about the current regulations and how they apply to you.

You may also need to show proof of your U.S. auto insurance, as well as proof of vehicle safety and a smog inspection certificate if you’re bringing your car from Canada.

Visitors to the U.S. can typically continue using their foreign licence for a certain amount of time (this varies from state to state). When moving to the U.S., however, you’ll eventually need to get a U.S. license. Don’t worry — coming from Canada, you don’t need to take another test. You can simply exchange your Canadian licence for a U.S. license for the state you’re moving to.

When it comes to transportation, rules, regulations, and procedures are state-specific and tend to vary. Contact the relevant state agency responsible for transportation (the Department of Motorized Vehicles, commonly known as the DMV) for the exact documentation you’ll need to hit the road.

3. Insure your car and home

Car insurance is mandatory in nearly every state in the U.S. For the most part, car insurance policies are structured similarly to those in Canada — so shop around and compare rates, coverages and deductibles to get the policy that’s best for you. You may be able to combine your home and car insurance with one insurer to get a discount on rates.

When it comes to homeowners’ and renters’ insurance, policies are also fairly comparable to what you’ll find in Canada. One difference, however, is the mandatory flood insurance required if you live in a high-risk flood area. To understand whether your new home is located in a high-risk flood area, visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

4. Obtain your Social Security Number

If you’re authorized to work in the U.S. — or you otherwise plan to earn a U.S. income — you’ll need to get a Social Security Number (SSN). SSNs are used to report your wages to the government and determine your eligibility for Social Security benefits.

To get an SSN, complete an application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and provide two original documents proving your identity, immigration status, work eligibility and age. Eligible documents include your visa, work permit or Employment Authorization Document (EAD), birth certificate and passport. You can apply in Canada before going to the U.S. or wait until you arrive to apply in person.

Moving to the U.S. was just the first step — getting settled is next! By following these four steps, you’ll be well on your way to feeling at home in no time.

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