Can I Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License?

Riding your bike safely and confidently requires you to have proper motorcycle insurance as well as a valid motorcycle license. However, you might wonder if it’s possible to get motorcycle insurance coverage without a license. There are many reasons you might need motorcycle insurance before getting your license – like buying a bike for future use, storing it safely, or meeting financing requirements. Fortunately, it's possible to obtain motorcycle insurance without a license, but it comes with certain challenges and requirements. 

This article regarding getting motorcycle insurance without a license will be discussed under the following headings:

• Reasons Why You Might Want Motorcycle Insurance without a License
• Can I Get Motorcycle Insurance without a License?
• Types of Motorcycle Insurance Available Without a License  
• How Can I Get Motorcycle Insurance without a License
• How Much Does It Cost to Get Motorcycle Insurance without a License
• What Happens If You Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License
• What Happens If You Ride Motorcycle without a License
• The Bottom Line

Reasons Why You Might Want Motorcycle Insurance without a License 

There are various situations where you might need motorcycle insurance without holding a license. While it may seem unnecessary, there are valid reasons to seek coverage to protect your investment, comply with financing requirements, or prepare for future riding. Here’s why you may look for insurance coverage even before you’re licensed: 

Common Scenarios for Seeking Insurance without a License

If you buy a motorcycle as a collector's item or for future use but don't plan to ride it, you might still want to consider getting insurance for it. Even if the bike won't be on the road, it could still be at risk of theft, damage, or natural disasters. Having insurance coverage for these situations will protect your motorcycle when it's not being used. 

Besides, some people buy motorcycles before they get their license. They might do this to get a good deal or to get a specific model. In such cases, they might need insurance to cover the motorcycle until they get their license. 

Also, if you’re financing a motorcycle, most lenders will require insurance as a condition for approving your loan. This is because they need to protect their investment if anything happens to the bike before you’re legally allowed to ride it.

More scenarios when an unlicensed rider might look for insurance:

• If you’re a new rider planning to learn to ride  
• If your motorcycle license/endorsement is suspended
• For those of you who can't ride a bike but still want a third-party rider to take you around

Protecting Your Investment

Whether you have a license or not if you own an expensive vintage classic motorcycle or the latest costly bike, it's a good idea to get it insured, even if you don't ride it often. Comprehensive motorcycle insurance can cover theft, vandalism, fire, and other damage that could occur while the bike is in storage. This type of coverage is especially important for you if you have collectible or vintage motorcycles that may have higher values. 

Apart from that, securing insurance early can provide peace of mind and financial protection. It makes sure that your motorcycle is covered from the moment you own it which reduces the risk of unexpected costs. Also, having insurance when you get your license can make it easier to transition smoothly to a standard riding policy without any coverage gaps. 

Note that you can still insure your bike without a license even if you are not included in one of these categories. However, you might have to look into more motorcycle insurance companies because not every insurance provider allows you to get insurance without a valid license. 

So, Can I Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License? 

Yes, you can get motorcycle insurance without a license, but it depends on the insurance company and the rules in your state. Many companies offer options, but they may have specific requirements or limitations. Here’s what you need to know: 

Insurance Company’s Requirements 

Insurance companies have different rules about who they will insure without a license. Some motorcycle insurance providers may require that you have at least a permit or an endorsement showing that you’re in the process of obtaining your motorcycle license. Others might need proof that the bike will not be actively ridden, like if it’s collectible or in storage. Requirements can vary significantly between states and insurance providers, so it's important to check local regulations and insurer policies. 

Using a Named Rider Approach 

If you don't have a motorcycle license, you can still get insurance by adding someone else as the primary rider on your policy. This person needs to have a valid motorcycle license and will be responsible for riding the motorcycle. This way, you can protect your investment while you work on getting your own license. However, the insurance company might have some extra rules, like making sure the licensed rider lives at the same address or has permission to use the motorcycle. 

Types of Motorcycle Insurance Available Without a License

Even if you don't have a license, you can still find different motorcycle insurance options to protect your investment: 

• Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive motorcycle insurance includes protection for non-collision events such as theft, vandalism, and weather damage. This type of insurance is suitable for stored or collectible bikes. It’s usually a part of full coverage (comprehensive and collision coverage) motorcycle insurance. You can find more information about what full coverage motorcycle insurance covers.
• Collision Coverage: It protects you from accidents, whether with another vehicle or an object, even if the motorcycle isn’t actively ridden.
• Liability Coverage: It’s Important if someone else is riding your motorbike. This coverage usually covers claims for injuries and damage to property if the rider is at fault in an accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects you if your bike is damaged by an uninsured or underinsured driver, even if the bike is parked or in storage. 

How Can I Get Motorcycle Insurance without a License

As it stands, you can't legally drive without a license, but you can still get motorcycle insurance without one. Some well-known local insurance companies may offer protection for those who ride motorcycles without a license for valid reasons. Now the question is where and how to get motorbike insurance if you don't have a license. Here’s what you can do about it: 

1. Understanding the Requirements

Motorcycle insurance companies often focus on the vehicle rather than the rider’s licensing status. This means while you might not have a motorcycle license, insurers can still provide coverage. However, premiums may be higher and additional documentation or conditions might be necessary. 

Most states in the U.S. mandate minimum insurance policy which usually includes liability insurance. However, minimum motorcycle insurance requirements in the U.S. vary by state but generally include:

• Bodily Injury Per Person: $15,000 to 50,000
• Bodily Injury Per Accident: $30,000 to 100,000
• Property Damage: $5,000 to $25,000

You’ll find this limit written as 25/50/10. For instance, if you’re in Michigan, the requirement is 20/40/10. This means 20,000 for bodily injury per person, 40,000 for bodily injury per accident, and 10,000 for property damage coverage. 

Here’s a list of states that require the following minimum coverage for your motorcycle:

2. Consider Alternative Documentation

If you don’t have a license, you can still proceed by providing other forms of documentation:

• Identification Documents: Use a state ID, passport, or any other valid identification in place of a driver’s license.
• Proof of Motorcycle Ownership: Present vehicle registration papers or purchase documentation.
• Completion of a Safety Course: Some insurance might accept proof of completing a motorcycle safety course as an indication of responsible riding habits.

3. Using an Insured Rider 

If you plan to insure a motorcycle without a license, one way is to designate someone else (such as a friend or family member who has a valid license) as the primary rider. In this way, you’ll have your necessary coverage while your licensing status remains inactive. Insurers typically base the policy on the primary rider’s information which could help you get a lower motorcycle insurance quote. 

4. Storage Insurance 

If you own a motorcycle but don’t ride it, storage insurance (comprehensive-only coverage) is another practical solution. Your bike will be covered against theft, vandalism, or natural disasters while it’s stored. Besides, many people ride their bikes frequently and store them during the winter because of risky roads can cancel their motorcycle insurance during the winter and save money. Getting storage insurance on your motorcycle is easy and doesn’t require you to have a license. 

5. Research and Compare Insurers 

 Not all insurance companies offer policies to unlicensed individuals. So, you need to do your research and compare options. Look for specialized insurers experienced in providing coverage for such scenarios. Honesty is key: so, make sure to disclose your licensing status upfront to avoid future complications. 

How Much Does It Cost to Get Motorcycle Insurance without a License 

Generally, motorcycle insurance costs around $33 per month or $396 per year. However, this is an average amount for every U.S. state. If you’re looking to insure your bike without a license, this may cost you more money compared to the average amount. Besides, the type of bike you own, and the insurance provider you pick also play a key role here in deciding the rates of motorcycle insurance. 

Also, as you don’t have a valid motorcycle license while applying for insurance, the insurance company cannot have access to your driving history which is a crucial factor in offering a justified insurance premium. However, if you’re getting a costly insurance quote on your motorcycle, you can exclude the unlicensed rider from the policy and name a licensed primary driver. This can help keep costs down. 

Here is a list of factors that decide your motorcycle insurance costs, particularly if you’re an unlicensed rider:

• Reasons for no license: If your license was suspended or revoked, insurers may charge much higher rates due to the increased risks. However, if you simply haven’t obtained your license yet, some insurers may see this as less risky.
• Location: Your state’s insurance requirements and risks associated with where you live (Urban vs. Rural areas) impact premiums.  
• Motorcycle Type and Value: The more expensive or high-performance your motorcycle, the higher your insurance premium. Unlicensed riders with high-value bikes may face even greater costs.
• Driving Record: If you have a history of traffic violations, insurance is supposed to quote higher prices. However, as you don’t hold a license, they can’t really get any past data on your driving history. So, to be on the safe side, they may just quote an increased rate.
• Credit Score: Insurers often use credit scores to assess risk. Lower credit score in addition to unlicensed status could result in higher insurance costs.
• Coverage Options: If you choose liability and full coverage, the cost will be higher than choosing just comprehensive coverage particularly if your motorcycle isn’t actively ridden.

What Happens If You Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License 

There are several challenges and consequences you may encounter if you decide to purchase motorcycle insurance as an unlicensed rider. Firstly, you’ll likely face higher premiums because insurers see unlicensed riders as high-risk. If your license is suspended or revoked, it may further increase costs, as insurers factor in your driving history. 

State regulations are also a crucial factor! Some states might not even allow you to get insurance without a license, while others may have specific rules that require you to have a licensed primary driver on the policy. However, if you’re in Florida or New Hampshire, you’re fortunate, because it’s recommended but not mandatory to have motorcycle insurance in these two states. 

Besides, finding an insurance provider willing to offer coverage can be difficult, as not all companies are open to insuring unlicensed riders. So, you’ll have to do your research and compare different insurers to find one that fits your situation and state regulations. You can also consult our motorcycle insurance agent to get an affordable motorcycle insurance policy. 

What Happens If You Ride Your Insured Bike Without a License?

No states in the United States allow you to ride legally without a valid motorcycle license/ motorcycle endorsement/ Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). Even if you get insurance without a license, we always encourage riders to take basic knowledge and riding tests and pass the exam so that they can obtain their license. Most states in the U.S.A. follow a pretty similar procedure for acquiring a motorcycle license. You can read this recent how-to guide on how to get a motorcycle license in Michigan to get a general idea.

There are several strong reasons why you should have a license before you ride your bike. There are about 20% of motorbike riders on the road who don't have a valid license. Also, 40% of riders who are involved in deadly crashes don't have the proper licenses.

Even after obtaining insurance on your motorcycle, without holding a valid license you’re not allowed to drive legally in every state, but if you do, this can result in several legal consequences (e.g., fines, bike confiscation, and jail time). Here’s what you may face:

• Fines and penalties range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars if you’re caught riding without a valid license.
• Some states may even charge you with a misdemeanor or require you to complete community service.
• Law enforcement can take away your motorcycle if you’re caught riding without a license and the cost of retrieving your bike can be high, including fees for towing, storage, and administrative expenses.
• Depending on the severity of the offense, you may need to appear in court which can lead to additional legal fees, and you may need to hire a lawyer as well.
• Riding without a license is considered high-risk behavior by insurance companies. So, if you’re caught, your insurer may increase your premiums or even cancel your coverage.

Note that riding without a license not only carries legal and financial risks but also compromises your safety. Without proper training, you might lack the skills to handle emergencies or avoid accidents. At L.A. Insurance, we recommend each, and every rider obtain a required license as well as insurance to ensure safety and obedience to state laws. 

Lower Your Insurance Rate and Ride Safely with Proper License  

If you really have a passion for riding a bike, you should consider becoming a responsible rider. A responsible rider is someone who follows the laws and regulations and ensures safety for themselves and others on the road. When you’re riding your favorite bike whether it’s a two-wheeler or three-wheeler, moped, cruiser, or sports bike, you’ll need to have a license and minimum insurance coverage for it. However, if you aren’t in a state to obtain your license immediately or you just plan to store your classic motorcycle/collectible bike in a garage, then there are a few ways to lower your insurance rate:

• List a Licensed Rider: One of the best ways to lower your insurance rate is to list a licensed rider as the primary operator of the motorcycle. This person must have a valid motorcycle license and a clean driving record. By doing so, the insurance company bases the risk assessment on that listed driver which could result in lower insurance premiums.
• Take a Motorcycle Safety Course: Completing a motorcycle safety course demonstrates that you’re serious about responsible riding, even without a license. Many insurers offer discounts for riders who have completed one of these courses. However, if you have done one of these courses, it becomes easier to get your motorcycle license/endorsement as well.
• Bundle Insurance Policy: If you already have auto, homeowners, or renters' insurance, bundling your motorcycle insurance with the same insurer can lead to multi-policy discounts. This can save a significant amount, even for unlicensed drivers.
• Opt. for Limited Coverage: Choosing minimal or limited coverage, such as liability-only insurance, can reduce costs. Also, if you’re planning to store your bike until you obtain a license, then just choose comprehensive-only coverage.
• Improve Your Credit Score: Insurance companies often consider your credit score when calculating premiums. A better credit score indicates reliability and financial responsibility, which can help secure a lower rate.  
• Shop Around: Different insurance providers offer varying rates and discounts! You can compare multiple insurers to find the best rates. L.A. Insurance is also good in this regard. We are considered the cheapest insurance provider in the nation!

The Bottom Line 

Getting motorcycle insurance without a license is possible, but it often comes with some challenges such as higher premiums and stricter requirements. Besides, in every state, if you simply insure your motorcycle but don’t get the license, you’ll be penalized financially or through jail time for riding without a license. However, when it comes to motorcycle insurance, remember that not all companies offer coverage to unlicensed drivers. 

If you’re in a situation where you won’t operate the motorcycle by yourself or you just purchase it as a collection item, then you can easily insure it without any complications. This means there always should be a valid reason behind not having a license. This should also be noted that as an unlicensed rider, you may face higher rates. So, it is recommended that you get quotes from multiple insurers to make sure you’re getting the best rate possible. It is also advisable to complete at least a basic riding course (popularly known as Motorcycle Safety Course) to make sure you’re on your way to getting the license. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Register a Motorcycle Without a License?  

Yes, you can register a motorcycle without having a motorcycle license. But it depends on the state laws. Most states will simply ask for proof of insurance for registration, and obtaining insurance without your license can be challenging, as many companies prefer license riders. Some insurers might even charge you a higher rate. 

Do I Need Motorcycle Insurance If I Am Not Riding the Bike? 

As for whether you need motorcycle insurance if you’re not riding the bike, generally, it depends on your situation and state requirements. If you own a motorcycle but aren’t using it, you might still need to maintain insurance, particularly if it’s financed or kept in public spaces. Also, carrying comprehensive or storage insurance can protect against theft, vandalism, or other damage while the bike is not in use. 

What Happens If I Ride Without Insurance and License? 

Riding a motorcycle without insurance and a license can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, vehicle impoundment, and suspension of your driving privileges. In some states, you could also face jail time or increased insurance premiums when you eventually obtain coverage. 

What Kind of Motorcycle License Do I Need? 

In the U.S., the type of motorcycle license you need depends on the state you live in and the kind of motorcycle you want to ride. Commonly, states offer different license classes based on engine size and motorcycle type. For example:

• M1 License: This is the most common license that allows you to operate any type of motorcycle, including those with larger engines and high performance. It may also cover scooters and mopeds.
• M2 License: Typically, this license is more limited. With it, you can operate motorized bicycles, mopeds, or scooters with engines of 50cc or less.  Some states, such as California, use this system to regulate different motorcycle categories.

Why Is Having a Motorcycle License Important for Getting Insurance? 

Having a motorcycle license is important for getting insurance because it shows insurers that you have the necessary training and legal permission to ride, reducing risk. Without a license, insurance companies may refuse coverage or charge significantly higher premiums due to increased liability concerns.