How Much is Insurance for a Scooter?

If you’re thinking of purchasing insurance for your scooter, the first concern that comes to mind is the cost. Comparatively scooter insurance is cheaper than other types of motorcycles such as cruisers, and way more affordable than sports motorcycles.  

This is because scooters are generally safer, and it’s easier to balance which makes it less prone to accidents compared to other types of motorcycles.  

Scooters have smaller engines ranging from 49cc to 300cc, so that makes it slower than regular motorcycles, which also makes them safer to ride as speeding is a common cause of motorcycle accidents.

How Much Does Scooter Insurance Cost? 

The average cost of purchasing a scooter insurance can be as low as $12.50 per month, and it can stretch to $26 per month or more for minimum coverage insurance. And the average cost of full coverage scooter insurance ranges from $60 to $165 per month.  

Given the monthly scooter insurance rates, the average annual cost for minimum coverage insurance costs around $150 to $312 or more. The average annual cost of full coverage insurance would be $720 to $1,980 or more depending on location, legal requirements, number of insurance claims, riding records among others.

Typically, when it comes to scooters the insurance rate significantly varies based on engine type, and its top speed. So, that’s why it’s important to consider analyzing scooter insurance rates based on the scooter’s type and engine capacity as follows.  

Looking for an affordable insurance agency that offers cheap motorcycle insurance for scooters? Consider checking out scooter insurance plans offering the best coverage within your budget.  

Cost of Insurance for 49cc Scooter

Scooters that come with a very low-capacity engine of 49cc to 50cc have an average top speed of 30 to 35 miles per hour, which makes it less risky. So, the average insurance rate for 49cc to 50cc scooter ranges from $10 to $12 per month, and $100 to $120 per year for minimum coverage.

Cost of Insurance for 125cc Scooter

The average cost of insurance for 125cc scooter with minimum coverage ranges from $14 to $16 per month, which is $168 to $192 per year. As the top speed of a 125cc scooter is 60 to 70 miles per hour, it slightly increases the risk of an accident but as the speed is still moderate, it’s still not considered a high-risk motorbike.

Cost of Insurance for 150cc Scooter

Although 150cc is the standard engine capacity for a scooter, it’s still on a very average scale when compared to motorcycles. The top speed of a 150cc is 70 miles per, which has a little risk, but if you ride the scooter carefully then it’s possible to ride safely. So, that’s why the average cost of a 150cc scooter is still cheap with an average rate of $20 per month for minimum coverage insurance.  

Cost of Insurance for a 250cc Scooter

The average cost of insurance for a 250cc scooter with minimum coverage ranges from $22 to $30 per month, which is $264 to $360 per year. A 250cc scooter is often used for longer commutes and highway riding, so insurers may consider it more expensive to insure than smaller scooters such as 49cc, 125cc, or 150cc models.  

Cost of Insurance for a 300cc Scooter

When it comes to getting a scooter with a higher engine capacity, the insurance cost can increase slightly due to the larger engine and higher speed. If you choose minimum coverage, the average cost is around $28 to $38 per month, or $336 to $456 per year. This is generally higher than the cost of insuring smaller scooters such as 49cc, 125cc, 150cc, and 250cc models, and in some cases it may approach the lower end of the average cost of motorcycle insurance. 

Scooter Insurance Cost Comparison   

The cost of scooter insurance can vary significantly depending on the engine size and the type of scooter you ride. The table below provides a quick comparison of the estimated minimum coverage cost for the most common scooter engine capacities.

As you can see, insurance premiums generally increase as the scooter’s engine size becomes larger. Smaller scooters such as 49cc and 125cc models are usually the cheapest to insure, while 250cc and 300cc scooters tend to have higher premiums due to their larger engines, higher speeds, and more frequent use for longer commutes or highway riding.

Is the Cost of Insurance the Same for Regular Kick Start Scooter and Electric Scooter? 

No, the cost of insurance is not the same for regular kick start scooters, and electric scooters. In fact, the rate of regular kick start scooter is relatively cheaper than electric scooter. This is mainly because regular scooters are cheaper to repair with more affordable spare parts and maintenance costs. 

Although the cost of insurance is comparatively higher for electric scooter, the difference isn’t anything significant, in fact it is quite negligible, especially because whether it’s a regular kick start scooter or an electric scooter the repair cost is still almost the same.  

Do You Need Scooter Insurance in the US? 

In most states throughout the US, motorcycle insurance is a mandatory legal requirement. Scooter is a type of motorcycle; the insurance laws that apply for motorcycles also apply for scooters.

So, this means that to legally own and ride a motorcycle, it is a legal requirement for you to have at least the minimum liability only coverage for your scooter. There’s an exception though, scooters that are lower than 50cc, which are also known as mopeds, don’t need insurance.  

However, the rules may vary in some states, where even mopeds or low-speed scooters under 50cc may require minimum coverage. Regardless of whether it’s mandatory or not, two wheeled vehicles including scooters or mopeds have a higher chance of accidental injuries and even death as motorbikes don’t have protective barriers like cars, and other four wheeled vehicles. 

How Much Does It Cost to Insure a Moped? 

Although the terms moped and scooter are often used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. A moped usually has a smaller engine, typically under 50cc, and is designed for lower speeds, while a scooter can range from 49cc to 300cc or more and is generally capable of higher speeds and longer-distance riding. 

On average, moped insurance generally costs about $10 to $26 per month, which is $120 to $312 or more per year for minimum coverage. If you choose full coverage insurance for your moped, the average cost can range from $60 to $165 per month, or $720 to $1,980 per year, which is similar to the cost of full coverage scooter insurance. 

In many cases, moped insurance premiums are very similar to scooter insurance because both vehicles are considered low-speed motorcycles and are often classified under similar insurance categories. Although the exact premium will still depend on factors such as your state, age, riding history, claims history, and the coverage limits you choose.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Scooter Insurance

Insurance companies determine scooter insurance rates based on multiple demographic and individual factors. So, that’s why it’s crucial to properly know, and understand every significant factor that affects your scooter insurance rate to get a more practical estimate.  

With proper awareness of the factors that affect scooter insurance rates, you can set a more realistic budget and ensure adequate financial protection.

Location 

Scooter insurance rates vary depending on the state, city, or area that you’re located in. It typically depends on the rate of insurance claims in a particular area due to accidents, injuries, death, vehicle damage, and theft.

Areas with higher rates of motor vehicle incidents typically face higher insurance premiums. Conversely, living in a region with lower risk factors can result in more affordable rates.

Age 

Age is another crucial factor that directly impacts scooter insurance rates. Younger riders are more prone to speeding with a consistent track record of reckless riding, particularly the age group of 16 to 20. 

So, that’s why the insurance rate of scooters is significantly higher for younger age groups compared to more mature and experienced riders from the age 25 and above. Typically, 16 to 18-year-olds tend to pay almost 2 times more than a 35-year-old rider with a clean riding record.

Type of Scooter, Make and Model 

The cost of your scooter insurance will significantly depend on your scooter’s type, make and model. Scooters that are more expensive can be costlier to repair and replace, so their insurance rate is likely to be higher. 

Moreover, it mainly depends on the scooter’s engine capacity. Scooters with larger engines have a higher repair and maintenance cost. Expensive scooters also have a higher chance of getting stolen as it’s perceived as a higher value to thieves.

So, the risk of theft can increase your scooter insurance rate as well, unless you have a well-secured parking space with adequate security features installed.  

Insurance Claims History 

The more insurance you claim, and the more coverage you receive, the higher your scooter insurance rate is likely to be. This is because when you’re claiming insurance you’re incurring costs for the insurance company.

Some insurance companies have a first-time forgiveness policy, but it won’t apply if you’ve claimed your scooter insurance subsequently within 1 to 3 years. As a result, your scooter insurance rate will increase in the following year when it’s time to renew it. 

Even if you switch insurers, there is a high chance that other insurance companies will also charge you a relatively higher rate, especially as you’re deemed as a high-risk rider.  

Riding Record, and Experience 

Your riding record and experience is a key factor when it comes to determining your scooter insurance rate. If you have a track record of receiving speeding tickets, fines, and other legal penalties for traffic violations then your insurance rate will significantly increase. 

When you face legal penalties for traffic violations, this builds a negative impression that you were involved in some risky riding activity. So, as a result many insurances companies may take this as a reg flag and perceive you as a high-risk rider.

On the flip side, if you have a clean track record with adequate riding experience, then you will get lower rates with discounts, and other exclusive offers. 

Choice of Coverage and Amount

When it comes to the choice of coverage, and the amount that you’re willing to purchase, the cost of the scooter insurance will mostly depend on your choice. Apart from the mandatory minimum liability only insurance for motorcycles and scooters in most states in the US, there are 13 other types of motorcycle insurance coverages that you can choose from and purchase the limit of your choice. 

So, if you buy more coverage with higher limits, then you’d definitely be spending more. And that’s why it's crucial to ensure that you know what types of scooter insurance you need, and how much coverage is adequate for you, anything beyond that may not be necessary and anything below your requirement can be insufficient. 

Deductibles

You can reduce the cost of your scooter insurance by either choosing a higher deductible or by increasing it. While it benefits you with lower premiums, it also increases the risk of higher out of pocket expenses. 

For example, if you choose a deductible of $5,000, that means you’re agreeing to pay $5,000 out of your pocket, and the rest from your scooter insurance coverage. So, in that way you’re risking $5,000 out of pocket expense. So that’s why choosing a higher deductible means increased risk. 

Tips to Lower Scooter Insurance Cost 

As scooter insurance varies based on a bunch of different factors, you need to act tactfully to lower your insurance rates. Here are some effective tips that you can follow to reduce your premiums and even get discounts.  

• Shop Around for Quotes
• Take a Motorcycle Safety Course
• Maintain a Clean Riding Record
• Opt for Semi-Annual or Annual Payment
• Install Anti-Theft Devices, and Ensure a Secure Garage
• Ask for Discounts and Bundle Policies

The Bottom Line: Keep Your Scooter or Moped Insured

Here’s a brutal fact regardless of whichever two-wheeled vehicle you ride whether it’s a scooter, dirt bike, cruiser or sports bike you’re always at a high risk of an accidental crash which can lead to vehicle damage, bodily injuries and even death.  

If you have collided, or rammed into another vehicle, and if the accident is your fault, then you will have to compensate their medical bills, vehicle, and property damages, along with anyone else who has been harmed.  

Plus, if you have sustained injuries, and if your scooter has been damaged too, you will have to bear your own medical bills, and your scooter’s repair costs. Think about it, how stressful it can be, if you have to bear all these expenses out of pocket.  

So, if you’re riding a scooter, it is crucial for you to make sure that you’re insured, at least to stay on the safe side financially. Insurance is generally cheaper for scooters compared to other types of motorcycle.  

But it’s important to find the right insurer to get the best rates. If you’re interested, you can find a local insurance agent nearby or you can contact us with your query for a free consultation and quote.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Are scooters expensive to insure? 

Scooters are relatively cheaper to insure compared to other types of motorcycles. On average the cost of minimum coverage insurance is $12.5 to $26 per month whereas the minimum coverage for motorcycle insurance on average is $33 per month.  

What insurance do I need for my scooter?

In almost every state in the US, minimum coverage liability only motorcycle insurance is mandatory, so you’re legally required to have liability only motorcycle insurance for your scooter. Of course, you can add other types of optional motorcycle insurance coverages for your scooter.

Does insurance cover stolen scooter? 

Yes, its insurance does cover stolen scooters, but you will need to buy comprehensive coverage for theft to be covered. If your scooter gets stolen the comprehensive insurance coverage will pay for your scooter’s current market value by subtracting your deductibles and depreciation cost.   

Is scooter insurance cheaper than motorcycle insurance? 

Yes, in many cases, scooter insurance is cheaper than motorcycle insurance. Small scooters such as 49cc and 50cc models can cost about $10-$12 per month for minimum coverage, compared with the national average of about $13 per month for motorcycle insurance.  

Full coverage for scooters can range from about $60-$165 per month, while the national average for full coverage motorcycle insurance is about $33 per month. Smaller scooters are usually cheaper to insure, while larger scooters can sometimes cost as much as, or more than, the average motorcycle policy. 

Is electric scooter insurance more expensive than gas scooter insurance? 

It can be slightly more expensive, especially if the electric scooter has a higher value or expensive battery components. However, for many commuter models, the difference is usually not dramatic.