Sequoia Insurance Company of Monterey has been approved by the California Department of Insurance to sell so-called “pay-as-you-drive” auto insurance.

Sequoia Insurance is now approved to sell pay as you drive in California along with AAA of Southern California and State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance.

“The voluntary initiative is an innovative program that allows insurers to offer plans based on more accurate mileage,” says Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones.

Typically, rates are based on mileage estimates. This program allows motorists who drive fewer miles to save money by only being charged for the insurance they need and use. It’s a voluntary option for California drivers.

For those who drive your car to Mexico this holiday season, AAA Hayward strongly recommends purchasing a tourist liability insurance policy.

“Many people are not aware that U.S. auto insurance is not valid in Mexico,” said AAA Northern California spokesperson Cynthia Harris. “Only a Mexican automobile liability policy issued by an authorized Mexican insurance company is accepted by local authorities.”

AAA Hayward provides Mexico Tourist Automobile Insurance through Grupo Nacional Provincial SAB, one of the largest and most reputable insurers in Mexico. Policies include benefits like bilingual adjusters and U.S.-based auto repairs.

Both AAA members and non-members may purchase a policy. Members receive a $5 discount on the processing fee. TravelGold, an optional medical and travel insurance, can also be included in your policy. For more information call (800) 922-8228, visit the Hayward AAA branch located at 1580 Chabot Court in Hayward or go to www.aaa.com/mexicoinsurance.

When purchasing Mexico Tourist Automobile Insurance from AAA, please have the following information available: travel dates, AAA membership number (for members), valid driver license number, current insurance coverage details, vehicle title or current registration, and name of lien holder (if the vehicle is leased).

If you are planning on driving in Mexico, you may want to purchase an International Driving Permit. Valid in more than 150 countries, the permit contains your name, photo, and translated driver license information, effectively communicating to foreign officials that you are an authorized driver. AAA is authorized by the US State Department to sell International Driving Permits.

To learn more about driving in Mexico, AAA members can obtain a free AAA TourBook guide to Mexico. The guide includes information on border regulations, motoring laws and insurance requirements. Visit www.aaa.com/roadtrip for more information. Visitors to Mexico should be aware that passport and entry requirements for U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico have changed. For the latest information, regulations and requirements visit travel.state.gov.