Can You Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License?

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to get motorcycle insurance without a license, the good news is that you can. But the bad news is, it isn’t easy. It depends on your situation, and it sure comes with challenges and a significantly higher rate.

However, by applying some tactful measures, it is possible to overcome these challenges and get motorcycle insurance, whether you’re a new rider with zero experience or a high-risk rider with a suspended or revoked license.

Before diving into the possible solutions and challenges of getting motorcycle insurance without a license, it is important to know why the license is a key requirement in the first place.

Regardless of your experience, this guide offers proven tips to help you obtain motorcycle insurance without a license and highlights the potential obstacles you might face along the way.

Why is a License Required for Motorcycle Insurance?

A motorcycle license is a state-verified document that certifies you have the required knowledge and skills to ride a motorcycle on public streets. Plus, it is also a mandatory requirement to operate a motorcycle in every state.

Typically, a motorcycle license or endorsement is a key requirement to get motorcycle insurance. This is mainly because riders with a motorcycle license have a lower risk of being involved in an accident compared to unlicensed riders.
Moreover, having a license shows that you’re legally compliant, which demonstrates that you’re a responsible, law-abiding motorcyclist.  So, if you don’t have a license, it raises a serious red flag as you’re still deemed unfit to ride on the streets.
Generally, two types of motorcyclists may not have a license; a new rider with no proven experience and a high-risk rider with a suspended or revoked license. Although a new rider can get motorcycle insurance even with a learner’s permit, it can be difficult for high-risk riders to get insured, even with a much higher premium and limited coverage options.
If you’re looking for an insurance agency in Michigan offering cheap motorcycle insurance coverage, you should explore PLPD’s extensive motorcycle insurance policy. For immediate support, you can contact the nearest PLPD office located in Flint, Saginaw, or Mt. Pleasant.

How to Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License?

Don’t worry, it may be a little difficult to get motorcycle insurance without a license, but if you follow the right steps, you can get the required coverage at a relatively cheaper rate. While it’s possible, it comes with a certain condition: you need to show visible progressive effort to obtain or reinstate your motorcycle license.

These tips are only applicable as short-term or immediate solutions to ensure that you’re insured and financially protected. So, here’s what you need to do to get motorcycle insurance without a license.

New Rider? Get a Learner’s Permit

Most states in the U.S. require you to have a learner’s permit for at least 6 months and cover significant mileage to prove that you’re eligible for a motorcycle license. While a learner’s permit does not allow you to ride with full freedom, it’s still enough to obtain motorcycle insurance.
So, to get a motorcycle learner’s permit, you need to apply for it at the DMV or the Secretary of State’s office. Essentially, there are some requirements that you need to fulfill to get a learner’s permit, as follows.
You need to be at least 15 and a half or 16 years old as an eligibility requirement (varies by state).

• Sit for a written and vision test to prove that you have the knowledge and physical capabilities to ride a motorcycle on the streets.
• Attend a Motorcycle Safety Course or Rider’s Skill test to prove that you’ve the necessary professional training and adequate experience to hit the road.
• Fill out the motorcycle learner’s permit application and pay the required fees.
• 
  

Once you’re done with the official process and if you pass all the exams, you should get your learner’s permit on the same day. Now that you’ve the learner’s permit, you can purchase motorcycle insurance without any hassle.

License Suspended or Revoked? Get SR-22 or FR-44 Certificate for High-Risk Riders 

Your motorcycle license can get suspended or revoked for not having at least the minimum mandatory motorcycle insurance coverage, reckless riding, being involved in an accident, failure to renew your license, or traffic violations leading to legal penalties.

Typically, insurance companies view these reasons as a serious risk factor, which is why riders with a suspended or revoked license are commonly labelled as high-risk riders. Now, if you’re within this category, you may face difficulties getting a motorcycle insurance policy

You cannot own or ride a motorcycle in Michigan or most states in the U.S. without being insured with at least the minimum mandatory coverage. First, it is crucial to ensure that you’re legally compliant with your state’s motorcycle insurance requirement

So, if your license is suspended or revoked due to high-risk violations, you will need to acquire an SR-22 or FR-44 certificate, which is equivalent to the mandatory liability coverage. However, the only clause is that these certificates come at a significantly higher rate, especially because you’re labelled as a high-risk rider.

The difference between SR-22 and FR-44 is, SR-22 provides the mandatory minimum coverage in every state except Florida and Virginia. Whereas the FR-44 certificate provides double the coverage of the mandatory requirement.

Add Someone in Your Household as the Primary Rider 

If you’re unable to get motorcycle insurance coverage due to license eligibility issues or if you’re unable to afford high premiums, you can enlist a licensed rider in your household with a clean riding record and claims history.
This will make it easier for you to access adequate coverage options at a cheaper and affordable premium. However, it’s important to be transparent with your insurer about who owns and operates the motorcycle. Remember, misrepresenting this information could lead to denied claims or policy cancellation later.

Consider Motorcycle Storage Insurance 

You can’t ride your motorcycle without a license or a learner’s permit. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you will need to wait till it's reinstated or until you get a new one.
In the meantime, even if you keep your motorcycle stored in a parking space or your garage, it can be susceptible to financial risks such as theft or weather-related damage.
So, to safeguard your investment, it is essential to consider motorcycle storage insurance or comprehensive coverage designed for stored bikes. This ensures your motorcycle is financially protected until you’re legally able to ride again.

Challenges of Getting Motorcycle Insurance Without a License 

Getting motorcycle insurance without a license can be quite challenging, but it can get easier, especially if you’re aware of the issues you may have to face. This will help you understand the complexities involved and apply the solutions that were suggested earlier.
Here are some of the most common challenges you may encounter when trying to secure motorcycle insurance without a license.

Difficulty Acquiring Motorcycle Insurance 

There’s a high chance that most insurers may turn you down when you seek to purchase their policy. Most insurers are reluctant to sell insurance to riders who don’t have a license. So, you will have to find insurers that provide non-standard motorcycle insurance coverage for high-risk riders.

Higher Premiums 

If you don’t have a license or learner’s permit, you won’t qualify for standard motorcycle insurance. In that case, you’ll either need to obtain an SR-22 or FR-44 certificate, which typically costs significantly more than a standard liability policy. Alternatively, you can opt for a non-standard motorcycle insurance policy, but these also come with higher rates since insurers consider unlicensed riders to be high-risk.

Policy Limitations 

Even if you qualify for motorcycle insurance without a license, your coverage options might be restricted. Many insurers will only offer you basic liability coverage and may exclude add-ons like collision or comprehensive coverage until you have a valid license. In some cases, your insurer might also limit who can operate your motorcycle, meaning only licensed riders are allowed to ride it. This can make things inconvenient if someone else in your household wants to take your bike for a spin.

Delay in Policy Approval

When you apply for motorcycle insurance without a license, expect a longer approval process. Insurers usually need extra documentation to confirm your identity, motorcycle ownership, and your intent to obtain or reinstate your license. This added review can delay your policy approval, especially if your insurer needs to verify your riding history, SR-22 or FR-44 filing, or learner’s permit status.

Advice: Work on Getting Your Motorcycle License or Endorsement

While there are ways to get motorcycle insurance even without a license, this is just a temporary solution. As motorcycle insurance is a core requirement, you need to ensure that you’re in the process of getting a motorcycle license or endorsement.
For instance, a learner’s permit remains valid for up to 180 days, so you can secure a motorcycle insurance policy for up to 6 months; after that, you will need to provide license details to renew and continue your policy.
Similarly, you need to take steps to reinstate your suspended license or apply for a new one if it’s revoked. While you’re working on getting your motorcycle insurance, you can get special coverage like SR-22 or FR-44 for high-risk riders.

The Bottom Line: Can You Get Motorcycle Insurance Without a License?

Yes, you can get motorcycle insurance without a license, but the process varies depending on your situation. If you’re a new rider, you’ll need a learner’s permit. If your license has been suspended or revoked due to traffic violations or legal penalties, you’ll need to work with an insurer that offers coverage for high-risk riders.
Insurance without a license typically comes with higher premiums, but once you obtain or reinstate your license, you can secure coverage at a lower rate.
If you’re in Michigan and looking for a reliable insurance agency that offers affordable coverage for both new and high-risk riders, contact us today to get a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If I buy a motorcycle can I drive it home without a license?

No, you cannot legally ride a motorcycle home without a valid license and insurance. Insurance companies typically require an active motorcycle license or endorsement to issue coverage. While some policies may be available for unlicensed riders under specific circumstances, having a license is generally mandatory before riding on public roads. 

Can you get motorcycle insurance with a permit?

Yes, you can get motorcycle insurance with a permit, but at a significantly higher premium. Keep in mind that a learner’s permit is typically valid for up to 180 days, so with the learner’s permit, you can purchase a policy for up to 6 months. After that, you will need to provide a license to get motorcycle insurance coverage.  

Is it Possible to Get Motorcycle Insurance with a Suspended or Revoked License?

If your license is suspended or revoked, you may need an SR-22 (most states) or FR-44 (Florida and Virginia). These certificates are proof of financial responsibility and are required to maintain high-risk motorcycle insurance. 

Why are premiums higher without a license?

Insurers consider unlicensed riders high-risk because there’s no verified riding experience. This uncertainty increases the likelihood of accidents or claims, which is why rates are typically higher until you obtain a full license. 

Can I store my motorcycle without a license and still have insurance?

Yes, you can get comprehensive or storage insurance to protect your motorcycle from theft, vandalism, or weather damage while it’s off the road. 

How can I lower my insurance costs before getting a full license?

You can list a licensed household member as the primary rider, take a certified motorcycle safety course, or maintain a learner’s permit. These steps can make you eligible for coverage and potentially reduce premiums.