Yes. Rikor places insurance for businesses in the United States, and every policy is written for a U.S. location. If you're opening a franchise in the U.S. and don't live here yet, you can still get started.

If you're moving to the U.S. to open your franchise

Use a U.S. address in the state where your business will operate. If you don't have a home, office or lease there yet, a registered agent address in that state works, and it's usually the best option. A registered agent is a company that accepts legal mail for your business in that state.

For example, if you're moving from Canada to open a franchise in Tampa, use a Florida registered agent address for your application.

Do I need a U.S. driver's license?

Not to get started. You can set up your account and apply before you have one.

It matters for commercial auto. Most auto carriers only accept a U.S. driver's license, because they check your driving record and a foreign license doesn't show up in that check. A few carriers will look at a foreign license case by case, but you'll have fewer options and usually pay more.

The best path is to get a license in your new state and use it for your auto policy. Most states require new residents to switch within a set time; Florida, for example, requires it within 30 days. If you need auto coverage before you have a U.S. license, tell us and we'll check which carriers will take your current one.

What we can't do

• We can't insure your business at an address outside the U.S. and move the policy to the U.S. later.
• We can't write a U.S. policy without a U.S. address. A registered agent address counts.

Next step

Once you have the address, start your application. See How to get an insurance quote for your franchise. If you're not sure which address to use, book a call at protectmyfranchise.com/schedule-a-call-gate or email support@rikor.io.

Related: How to get started