Can I Get Car Insurance Without a License?

You have a vehicle, but you do not have a driver’s license. It may sound like a dead end for getting insurance coverage, right? So, you may have already thought about asking your insurer, "Can I get car insurance without a license?" Let’s not make you wait too long! The simple answer is yes. You can get car insurance without a license, and there are good reasons why you might need to. 

However, you’re more likely to face a few hurdles to insure your car without a valid license since insurance companies prefer licensed drivers. Keep reading this article to learn everything about buying car insurance without a license. 

Why Do You Might Need Car Insurance Without a License? 

Not having a driver's license doesn’t mean you don’t need insurance coverage. Many situations require vehicle insurance, even if you’re not the one driving the car. An auto policy makes sure you're covered when it matters most, whether it's to protect a parked car or help a family member get on the road. 

Here are a few reasons why you might need car insurance without a license:

• You own a vehicle, but someone else is the primary driver.
• You want to avoid a lapse in insurance while your license is suspended.
• You’re working toward your learner’s permit or reinstating your license.
• You own a classic car for investment or restoration process.
• Your car is in storage, and you need parked car insurance and protection against theft or vandalism.
• You’re insuring a minor driver (under 18) who can’t legally sign a contract.
• You’re a non-driver who owns a high-value car as an investment or part of an inheritance.
• You occasionally loan your car to friends or family like spouse, child, or caregiver and want to make sure they’re insured.
• You’ve stopped driving due to medical conditions and plan to resume in the future or one of your friends or family members drives it for you.

In short, medical issues, temporary suspensions, or even storing your car long-term are all valid reasons to get car insurance without a license. 

Can I Get Car Insurance Without a License? 

Although you might face complications and many reputed auto insurance companies might refuse to insure you, still it’s possible to secure car insurance without a license. In such a case, you would have to look for a small insurer rather than going to larger insurance providers. Only a few well-known, reliable car insurers offer options for unlicensed drivers.

Usually, most insurance companies will ask for a license number. They need to see your driving history to set your insurance rate. If you don’t have one, you’ll likely need to name a primary driver who will operate the vehicle and has a valid driver's license.

Note that in some cases, you may need to exclude yourself as a driver on the insurance policy. This way insurance companies try to make sure you won’t be driving the car.

In brief, you can get car insurance even if you don’t possess a valid license. The process of getting insurance without a license is just slightly different and complicated from insuring a licensed driver. 

Read More: Can I Get Car Insurance with a Foreign Driver’s License? 

So, How Can I Get Car Insurance Without a License? 

Some big insurance companies won’t even provide a quote unless you have a valid license. It’s because most car insurance companies prefer licensed drivers. So, you’ll need to approach this process differently. In the following sections, we’ll let you know the most effective ways to secure affordable auto insurance coverage when you don’t have a driver's license. 

List Another Person as the Primary Driver 

If you own the vehicle, but someone else will be driving it, you can name them as the primary driver on the insurance policy. This could be your spouse, child, parent, caregiver, roommate, or anyone who regularly drives the car. You’ll simply need their license number and consent to list them. 

Exclude Yourself as a Driver

Many auto insurance companies allow you to exclude yourself as a driver on the policy. This reduces their risk since they know you won’t be driving the car. However, if you do drive the car, you won’t get coverage in case of a pulled over, or accident. Keep in mind that you can’t legally drive a vehicle without a license in any state in the U.S.A. So, if you still do so, after insuring your car, you won’t get any compensation for it and you’ll have to pay all the expenses (e.g., hefty fines, penalties) out of pocket.  

Please also note that insurers determine rates based on various factors, including driver’s records and vehicle history. So, if your listed primary driver has a history of tickets, DUIs, or any traffic violations, you will probably face higher insurance rates. 

Read More: Can I Get Insurance for Someone Who Borrows My Car? 

Get Parked Car Insurance 

If you’re not driving your car anymore, it’s still prone to risks. Theft, vandalism, and natural disasters all happen even in the most advanced era of civilizations. To protect your car against these issues, you can purchase parked car insurance (popularly known as a “storage” or “parked car” policy). 

Since you’re not going to drive it, you may not require a license to insure it. However, you’ll need to ensure comprehensive insurance coverage to protect it against all kinds of damages that aren’t in your hands. 

Comprehensive insurance is one of the optional types of car insurance coverage.  It offers protection if your car is damaged in the following incidents:

• Flood
• Theft  
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Water Damage from Rain
• Storms, Hail Damage
• Falling objects (e.g., tree branch)
• Damage from animals (e.g., hitting a deer)

Add a Co-Owner to Your Vehicle Registration

Adding a licensed co-owner to your vehicle registration can make it easier to get car insurance without a license. This person can also be listed as the primary driver on the policy. This way, you can meet most insurers’ auto insurance requirements. To add a co-owner to your vehicle, visit your local DMV office. You can also check your local DMV website to see if you can complete the registration process online for added convenience. 

Look for Niche or Specialized Insurance Companies 

Some insurance companies specialize in policies for unlicensed drivers. These companies might offer flexible terms compared to larger insurance providers. L.A. Insurance, based in Michigan, specializes in offering insurance coverage to high-risk drivers. So, you can directly call us at (800) 893-9393 to know whether you’re eligible for getting insurance without a license or not. You can also get your car insurance quote online if you aren’t comfortable with a call. 

Besides, you can find an expert insurance agent, who can guide you through the whole process of finding you the right kind of car insurance when you have no license. Our experienced insurance brokers are always ready to help you, and they are just a text away if you need to know anything regarding car insurance without a license. 

Obtain SR-22 If Necessary 

If your license is suspended and you’re required to provide proof of financial responsibility, you may need an SR-22. Some auto insurance companies will file this document on your behalf to ensure compliance with state laws. You can learn more about this by reading our article on “Can I get auto insurance with a suspended license?” 

How Much Do I Have to Pay for Car Insurance with No License? 

Although car insurance without a license is possible, it often comes with higher premiums due to perceived risk by insurance companies. Based on our research, monthly costs for car insurance with no license can range from $150 to $450, with 6-month premiums between $800 and $2,500. 

However, you can expect your standard car insurance premiums to rise by 67% on average if you don’t have a valid license or suspended license. However, all these numbers are nothing but a rough estimate. Every car and driver are different. Plus, car insurance rates are determined by many factors including driver history, vehicle history, vehicle price, age, make and model, insurance provider, and so on. No one can give you the exact quote for auto insurance without a license unless you contact an insurance agent or reach out directly to a provider. 

Read Relevant Article: How to Get Same-Day Car Insurance Cheaper?

Can I Buy a Car without a Driver’s License?

Yes, it’s possible to buy a car without a driver’s license. However, you have to go through a complicated process to do so. Dealerships and private sellers don’t always require proof of driver license to purchase a vehicle, but you’ll need one to test drive the car or drive it off the lot. 

If you don’t have a license, consider these options:

• Work with a licensed driver to test and transport the car.
• Add a co-owner with a valid driver's license to the title.
• Secure a loan from a lender that doesn’t require a license number.

Challenges of Applying for Auto Insurance Without a License? 

Applying for car insurance without a license comes with several hurdles. Insurers see unlicensed drivers as high-risk policyholders. This perception makes the process not only a bit complicated but also costly. 

Here are major challenges you might face while applying for the auto insurance without a license:

• Premiums for unlicensed drivers are often higher due to perceived risks. Plus, insurers rely on driving history to set rates.
• Many insurance companies refuse to offer coverage without a valid driver's license.
• Some states require proof of license before issuing a policy.  
• You may need to exclude yourself as a driver to get the insurance coverage.

It’s important to know that, according to the Insurance Research Council (IRC), 14% of U.S. drivers were uninsured in 2022, which is 3% higher than in 2020. Although this rate is slowly decreasing, about 35.7 million people still drive without adequate insurance, based on the AAA’s 2022 American Driving Survey. Besides, driving without a valid license or insurance is risky. According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), 11,000 fatal crashes in 2021 involved unlicensed drivers.  

That’s why having both a proper license and enough liability auto insurance is necessary as long as you plan to drive. Despite any challenges, getting auto insurance is mandatory and required by law in 48 out of 50 states in the U.S. Also, it’s recommended to make sure that young (teenage or under 18 years old) drivers aren’t driving without a license. Research suggests young unlicensed drivers are most likely to be involved in risky behavior, reckless driving, and even fatal crashes. 

Can You Get Auto Insurance Without a License: The Bottom Line 

To recap, yes, you can get auto insurance without a license, but it’s not always straightforward. Some car insurance companies are hesitant, while others may offer flexible options. You may need to list a primary driver or exclude yourself as one. Options like parked car insurance or working with a specialized affordable insurance agency like L.A. Insurance might help. 

Although applying comes with a few challenges, such as higher costs and limited choices, preparation makes it manageable. Whether you’re protecting your vehicle, avoiding a lapse in insurance coverage, or insuring someone else, it’s doable. So, if you really need to insure your car without a license, we’d recommend comparing rates and planning ahead to find the best fit. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to Getting Car Insurance Without a License

Can I Switch from Non-Driver to Driver When I Get My License?  

Yes, you can switch. Contact your insurance company when you get your driver's license. Update the insurance policy to include yourself as a driver. Your car insurance rates may change based on your driving history. Always inform your insurer about changes to avoid coverage issues. 

What Types of Car Insurance Policy Available for Non-Drivers? 

Non-drivers can get liability, collision, or comprehensive coverage. Besides, named driver policies cover specific individuals driving the car. Parked car insurance protects vehicles in storage. These policies ensure coverage without a driver's license. Each option depends on your needs and the insurer’s terms. 

How Can I Register a Car with No License? 

Yes, you can register your car without a license. However, it’s not easy every time and depends on your local DMV requirements. Usually, you’ll need proof of insurance, a valid ID, and the car’s title to register your vehicle. Some states allow a co-owner with a license to assist. Always make sure your vehicle meets state regulations. 

Can I Get Car Insurance Without a License in Michigan? 

Yes, but it depends on specific conditions. Michigan auto insurance law allows car insurance if you have a registered car or plan to register one. However, insurers can refuse coverage for reasons like a suspended license, prior fraud, unpaid premiums, or unsafe vehicles. You also must meet underwriting requirements and eligibility points. Please check Michigan auto insurance requirements and insurer policies before applying. 

Can I Purchase Auto Insurance in Colorado Without a License? 

If you have a registered car in Colorado, you can buy auto insurance for it without a license. Insurance companies mostly require an ID and a licensed driver on the policy. The state requires liability insurance for all vehicles since Colorado is a no-fault auto insurance state. However, you need to remember that you must have a valid license to drive in Colorado. Plus, if you fail to insure the car, you’ll face penalties. 

Can I Get Car Insurance in Texas Without a License? 

In Texas, you can obtain auto insurance without a driver’s license. Insurance companies may require a state-issued ID. They might also ask for a licensed driver to be listed on the policy. This is how they try to ensure someone with a valid license drives the vehicle. 

Is It Necessary to Keep Car Insurance If I Own A Car but No Longer Have a Driver's License?

If you own a car but no longer have a driver’s license, maintaining insurance is still necessary. Most state law requires all vehicles to have liability insurance, regardless of the owner’s license status. Failure to maintain insurance can lead to fines and penalties, particularly in situations when an unlicensed driver drives the vehicle. 

Will My Insurance Cover Me If I’ve No Valid License? 

In most cases, your insurance company may not cover you or your car if you’re driving without a valid license. Insurance policies typically require the driver to be legally licensed. However, if someone else with a valid license is driving, the insurance may still apply since car insurance mostly covers the vehicle, not the driver. 

Can I Get Car Insurance Without a License Plate? 

In the U.S., you can buy car insurance without a license plate if you have valid reasons. However, most top-rated insurance companies will not give you a quote without a valid license number. Some smaller insurers or brokers might help you obtain insurance, but you may need a state-issued ID and the vehicle’s VIN. This information helps ensure your vehicle is registered and that you can get a license plate.