Get Car Insurance With No License


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Key Takeaways

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If you're dealing with a suspended license, storing a vehicle or don't have a license yet, you can get coverage by listing a licensed family member or friend as the primary driver. You'll need to exclude yourself from coverage, which means you won't be protected if you drive the vehicle.

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Car insurance without a license costs much more than standard coverage, but payment strategies can reduce your total costs. Paying annually instead of monthly eliminates installment fees. Non-owner insurance provides a more affordable option if you don't own a vehicle but need liability coverage for borrowed or rented cars.

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SR-22 or FR-44 filing requirements add one-time fees and ongoing premium increases to your policy. These certificates prove you maintain the required coverage for license reinstatement. FR-44 requirements in Florida and Virginia involve higher liability limits and higher costs than standard SR-22 filings.

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Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?

Getting car insurance without a license is complicated, but it's possible. Without a license, insurers can't check your driving record, so they'll consider you a higher risk and may charge more.

To get coverage, list a licensed primary driver on your policy or exclude yourself. Consider SR-22 insurance for a suspended license, non-owner insurance for borrowed cars or parked car coverage for stored vehicles.

Should You Get Car Insurance Without a License?

Finding yourself needing car insurance without a license puts you in a tricky spot. Whether you're dealing with a suspended license, helping a family member or storing a vehicle, you still need coverage. Maintaining car insurance can be a smart financial move, even if you're not actively driving. Here's why:

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    Your teen driver needs car insurance

    You can buy car insurance for a teen driver or family member who can't get it themselves.

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    Someone else drives your car

    If you can't drive yourself and someone else drives for you, you can list them as the primary driver.

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    You have a learner’s permit

    Permit drivers need car insurance to drive legally. If you can't join someone else's policy, you can buy coverage without a driver's license.

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    You own a car that's in storage

    Comprehensive-only insurance or parked car insurance covers non-driving incidents like theft or natural disasters.

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    You own a classic or vintage car you don't drive

    Classic car insurance provides specialized coverage for vintage cars not regularly driven.

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    You don’t have a U.S. license but plan to drive in the U.S.

    If you're visiting the U.S. without a local license, a temporary car insurance policy can cover you while driving rented or borrowed vehicles. Some states accept foreign licenses, while others require foreign drivers to get an international driving permit.

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    You want financial protection

    Even if you can't drive, you may own a vehicle that needs protection against theft, vandalism or weather damage. Comprehensive coverage protects your investment whether the car is parked or driven by others.

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    You need to meet legal requirements

    If you own a registered vehicle, most states require minimum insurance coverage regardless of your license status. Failing to maintain coverage can result in fines, registration suspension, or other penalties.

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    You’re preparing for license reinstatement

    If your license is suspended, maintaining continuous coverage prevents coverage lapses that could increase future premiums. Many states also require SR-22 certificates, which can only be obtained through an active insurance policy.

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    You need family vehicle coverage

    You might need to insure a family vehicle that other licensed household members drive, even if you cannot operate it yourself.

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WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DRIVE WITHOUT A LICENSE?

Driving without a valid license is illegal, and insurance companies won't provide coverage. If caught, you could face fines, penalties or jail time.

Your insurer won't cover the damages if you cause an accident without a valid license. This means you'll be responsible for all costs. In some cases, buying car insurance without a license may make sense, but never drive without one.

How to Get Car Insurance Without a License

Getting car insurance without a license requires choosing the right coverage method and following a strategic application process. These eight steps help you secure coverage, from selecting your approach to completing your application.

  1. 1

    List another primary driver

    Add a licensed family member, friend or roommate as the primary driver on your policy. A primary driver is the licensed person who drives the vehicle most often. You can exclude yourself from the policy, which means you won't have coverage if you drive. Driving without a license and insurance is against the law and leads to serious penalties.

  2. 2

    Add a co-owner to the registration

    Adding a licensed co-owner who becomes the primary driver on your insurance policy lets you insure your car even if you don't have a license. Check your state's DMV rules to see if co-ownership is allowed for your situation.

  3. 3

    Get parked car insurance

    Comprehensive-only or parked car insurance suits those who don't use their vehicle for a while, like during extended travel or for a seldom-used secondary vehicle. It covers risks like theft and weather damage but not driving incidents.

  4. 4

    Consult insurance agents

    Talk to multiple insurance agents to explore your options. They can guide you through the process and help you find coverage that fits your needs.

  5. 5

    Research insurance companies

    Look for companies accepting no-license applications, since many insurers won't provide coverage to unlicensed drivers. Find companies that offer limited programs or specialist insurers that are more flexible with unlicensed applicants.

  6. 6

    Contact insurance companies directly

    Call insurers rather than using online quote tools, which require license numbers. Mention your no-license situation upfront and ask specific questions about their policies for unlicensed drivers, required documentation and available coverage options to avoid wasting time with companies that won't work with you.

  7. 7

    Gather required documentation

    Prepare documents, including your state-issued ID card or passport, Social Security number, vehicle identification number (VIN) and title or proof of ownership. For primary drivers, you'll need their valid license number, personal information and any special situation documents, such as court papers for suspended licenses or learner's permit copies.

  8. 8

    Complete your application

    Be completely honest about your license status and provide accurate information about all drivers on the policy. If your insurer insists you must be listed as a driver, request excluded driver status. Be prepared to try different insurers if one won't accommodate your situation.

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WHY CAR INSURANCE COMPANIES ASK FOR YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE

Insurance providers need your driver's license to assess risk and determine your premium. Your license reveals your driving history, including accidents and violations. It also confirms you can legally drive, which is a basic requirement for most policies.

Insurers consider you a higher risk when you apply for insurance without a license. They have limited information to evaluate your driving habits. This increases your premiums or makes it harder to secure coverage.

Getting Car Insurance with No License: Different Scenarios

Getting car insurance without a driver's license isn't one-size-fits-all. Your specific situation determines which coverage options work best and what requirements you'll need to meet. Here's how to navigate car insurance for the most common scenarios.

Suspended or Revoked License

Even with a suspended or revoked license, you must maintain minimum coverage on any registered vehicle to avoid additional fines and longer suspension periods. Most states require proof of insurance for license reinstatement, and if you're financing or leasing your vehicle, your lender will require continuous coverage.

You'll likely need an SR-22 certificate (or FR-44 in Florida and Virginia), which your insurance company files to prove you meet state requirements.

Learner's Permit Holders

Drivers with a learner's permit must have auto insurance. Most teens can be added to a parent's existing policy at little to no extra cost until they get their full license. Teens under 18 cannot legally purchase auto insurance without a parent or guardian as a co-signer in most cases.

Contact your insurance company immediately once your teen gets their permit. Some insurers automatically cover permit holders, while others require you to add them formally. Add them to a parent's policy rather than getting separate teen car insurance coverage. Once your teen gets their full license, expect rate increases, typically 50% to 100%, depending on gender and other factors.

If the permit holder lives separately from their parents or owns a vehicle, they'll need to purchase a standalone policy, which is more expensive than being added to an existing family policy.

Insuring a Vehicle for Someone Else

When caring for elderly parents, managing a family member's vehicle or helping someone who can't drive, you have coverage options depending on how often you'll be driving. If you're occasionally helping someone, you'll be covered under their existing policy as a "permissive driver." If you're regularly driving their vehicle, you should be added as a named driver on their policy to ensure proper coverage and avoid claim denials.

For main drivers, transfer the vehicle title and insurance policy to your name to simplify coverage and avoid complications. Non-owner insurance provides liability coverage when you regularly drive someone else's vehicle without owning one yourself. This maintains a continuous coverage history and often offers higher liability limits than the car owner's policy.

International Drivers and Visitors

Foreign visitors can get car insurance in the United States with a valid driver's license from their home country, and many states require an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can drive on a foreign license for up to three months or with an IDP for up to one year before needing to obtain a U.S. license. Major insurers offer coverage to international drivers. You'll pay higher rates since you're considered a "new driver" without a U.S. driving history.

For short-term visitors renting cars, purchasing insurance through the rental company is the simplest option. If you're staying longer or driving your own vehicle, you'll need a standard policy from a U.S. insurer.

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CAN YOU GET CAR INSURANCE WITH A SUSPENDED LICENSE?

You can get car insurance with a suspended license. Ask your insurer to submit an SR-22 form, which proves you have coverage. The SR-22 isn't a specific type of insurance policy, and not all insurers offer this service.

If you don't own a vehicle but still need proof of coverage, a non-owner SR-22 policy is an option. This type of insurance is more affordable, with an average annual cost of $576 for drivers with a prior accident.

Where to Get Car Insurance Without a License

While many online car insurance quote tools require a driver's license number, you can still get an estimate without one. Contacting an agent, insurance broker or smaller insurer directly may help you find the right coverage.

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    Reach out to direct agents

    Direct agents represent a single insurance provider and can explain that company's specific policy offerings. If the insurer provides coverage for drivers without a license, a direct agent can help you find a suitable policy.

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    Insurance brokers

    To help find the right policy, consider contacting an independent insurance broker. Independent brokers can offer quotes from multiple insurers, helping you find the best fit for your needs and budget. The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America can connect you with a network of agents in your area.

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    Midsized insurers

    Smaller insurance companies often have more flexible rules and may offer policies to drivers without a license. They might provide specialized or non-standard coverage that better fits your needs.

Car Insurance Companies That Accept No-License Applications

Finding car insurance without a license means identifying companies that work with unlicensed drivers. Many major insurers have strict license requirements, but specialist companies provide coverage for suspended licenses and high-risk driving situations.

Major Insurers
Company
Key Strengths
Coverage Specialties
Application Process
Best For
  • Strong financial stability
  • Available in all 50 states
  • Competitive rates
  • SR-22 filing
  • suspended license coverage
  • serious violations

Phone calls required (no online applications)

Suspended license holders seeking major insurer reliability

  • Largest standard insurer accepting high-risk drivers
  • Nationwide coverage
  • named driver policies
  • non-owner insurance
  • SR-22/FR-44 filing
  • telematics discounts

Phone or agent required

High-risk drivers needing flexible payment options and reinstatement programs

  • Strong local agent network
  • Competitive standard rates
  • Personalized service
  • family member coverage
  • learner's permit holders
  • license reinstatement support

Local agents handle applications

Teen drivers with permits, family coverage situations

  • Comprehensive coverage options
  • Established insurer reputation
  • family policy contexts
  • select unlicensed driver situations

Regional availability varies

Unlicensed drivers in family policy

Specialist Insurers
Company
Coverage Specialties
Geographic Coverage
Best For

The General

  • Coverage lapses 6+ months
  • Poor credit and bad driving records

47 states nationwide

Drivers rejected by other companies, long coverage gaps

Acceptance Insurance

  • Non-owner insurance
  • SR-22 specialists
  • Bad-credit discounts

15 states with neighborhood presence

All types of non-standard driving situations

Direct Auto (owned by Allstate)

  • SR-22 certifications
  • suspended licenses
  • non-owner coverage

16 states, primarily Southeast/Midwest

Suspended license holders needing SR-22 requirements

Bristol West (Farmers Insurance Group subsidiary)

  • No prior insurance history
  • DUI coverage
  • first-time drivers

43 states with Farmers backing

DUI cases, drivers with no insurance history

How Much Is Car Insurance Without a License?

Car insurance without a license costs more than standard coverage, but understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. Here's everything you need to know about pricing for no-license insurance.

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    Base Premium Costs

    Car insurance without a license costs more than standard coverage. The exact increase depends on your situation. Drivers with suspended licenses face the highest premiums due to their high-risk status. Those with learner's permits can be added to parent policies with minimal additional cost. International drivers are classified as "new drivers" regardless of their experience abroad, which results in higher rates.

    Non-owner insurance costs less since it provides liability coverage only. Geographic location affects pricing, with some states charging more than others for the same coverage.

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    SR-22/FR-44 Filing Costs

    SR-22 filings come with both one-time filing fees and ongoing premium increases due to the violations that triggered the requirement. The filing fee is modest, but you'll pay it each time the form is filed, including if your policy lapses and requires refiling.

    If multiple family members need SR-22 filings, you'll pay separate fees for each person. FR-44 requirements in Florida and Virginia involve higher liability coverage limits, increasing filing fees and base premiums. The biggest cost impact comes from the underlying violations that necessitated the filing. DUI convictions cause the largest premium increases, while minor violations have less impact.

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    Payment Plan Fees

    Paying your premium in monthly installments rather than annually upfront increases your total cost. Most insurers charge installment fees for each monthly payment, and some apply annual percentage rates to unpaid balances that can reach high levels.

    Different payment methods carry different fees. Phone payments and paper checks cost more than electronic payments. Pay the full annual premium upfront to qualify for additional discounts and eliminate all payment processing fees.

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    Non-Owner Insurance Specifics:

    Non-owner insurance provides liability-only coverage for drivers who don't own vehicles but still need to drive occasionally. This type of policy costs less than standard coverage since it doesn't include comprehensive or collision coverage for a specific vehicle.

    The cost varies based on your driving record. Drivers with clean records pay much less than those with violations or DUI convictions. If you need SR-22 filing with non-owner insurance, expect additional costs for both the filing and higher premiums due to the high-risk classification.

Insurance costs for unlicensed drivers vary based on your specific situation and the coverage type you need. Without a driving record to assess, insurers often charge higher premiums due to perceived increased risk.

Tips to Get Cheap Car Insurance With No License

You can still save money on car insurance without a license. You'll pay more than licensed drivers, but the following strategies can help you find affordable coverage and avoid unnecessary expenses.

  1. 1

    Optimize Your Payment Strategy

    Pay annually instead of monthly to avoid installment fees and qualify for additional upfront payment discounts. Set up automatic bank payments to earn auto-pay discounts and prevent costly coverage lapses. Switch to paperless billing for small discounts, and ask about early payment discounts that combine with annual payment strategies for maximum savings.

  2. 2

    Choose the Right Coverage Type

    If you don't own a vehicle, select non-owner insurance. It's cheaper than full coverage and meets state requirements while providing financial protection when driving borrowed or rented cars. Consider pay-per-mile programs for very low-mileage drivers. Explore usage-based insurance that monitors and rewards safe driving with immediate participation discounts.

  3. 3

    Maximize Available Discounts

    Bundle auto insurance with renters or homeowners insurance for multi-policy discounts that save money on both policies. Take advantage of good student discounts for maintaining strong grades and defensive driving course discounts. Report accurate low annual mileage for major discounts and install safety features like anti-theft devices, car alarms, and advanced safety systems that reduce premiums.

  4. 4

    Shop Smart and Compare Regularly

    Target companies that specialize in high-risk car insurance or specialty coverage, since they provide better rates than traditional insurers. Shop around every six months by getting quotes from at least three different companies around your policy renewal dates. 

    Use independent agents who can access multiple insurance companies but avoid those who charge broker fees. Buy directly from insurers when possible to avoid agent commissions.

  5. 5

    Improve Your Credit Score

    Check your credit report regularly and correct any errors immediately since credit problems inflate your insurance costs. Contact your insurer to request rate reviews after your credit improves. Make all bill payments on time and keep credit card balances low relative to limits. Avoid unnecessary new credit accounts that temporarily lower your score.

  6. 6

    Maintain Continuous Coverage

    Never let your coverage lapse since even short gaps result in much higher rates. Consider switching to non-owner insurance rather than dropping coverage entirely during non-driving periods. Keep some form of insurance to prevent gaps that classify you as higher-risk when you resume coverage and maintain your positive insurance history.

  7. 7

    Avoid Costly Mistakes

    Think twice about filing small claims that barely exceed your deductible. Rate increases from claims cost more than paying out-of-pocket. Consider other insurers periodically, since many charge existing customers more than new customers. Shop around annually, even if you're satisfied with your current insurer, to check other insurers' rates and discount opportunities.

  8. 8

    Plan for Long-Term Savings

    Invest in defensive driving courses for immediate discounts. Improved driving skills help prevent future violations. If working toward license reinstatement, complete required programs promptly and maintain SR-22 filings without lapses. Build a positive insurance history by avoiding claims and violations, and consider gradually increasing coverage as your situation improves.

  9. 9

    Leverage State Programs and Requirements

    Research special programs for low-income or suspended license drivers since some states offer payment assistance or reduced-rate programs. Understand your state's minimum coverage requirements to avoid buying unnecessary protection. Learn about SR-22/FR-44 requirements specific to your state. Check if defensive driving courses remove points from your record to improve rates faster.

  10. 10

    Use Technology to Your Advantage

    Try telematics programs that install apps or devices to monitor your driving for car insurance discounts. Many offer immediate participation discounts and demonstrate safe driving habits to insurers. Check if your insurer has a mobile app that helps with policy management. You may find discounts and safe driving rewards through the app. Mobile payment options may provide additional savings.

No-License Car Insurance State Requirements

Learn about your state's specific insurance requirements when getting coverage without a driver's license. Each state has different minimum coverage requirements, SR-22/FR-44 rules and special provisions that affect no-license drivers. The table below breaks down what you need to know for every state.

State
Minimum Liability Limits
SR-22 Required
Non-Owner Insurance Available
Special Requirements
PIP/No-Fault State

Alabama

25/50/25

Yes

Yes

None

No

Alaska

50/100/25

Yes

Yes

None

No

Arizona

15/30/10

Yes

Yes

None

No

Arkansas

25/50/25

Yes

Yes

None

No

California

30/60/15

Yes

Yes

Uninsured motorist required

No

**Note: Liability limits are shown as Bodily Injury per Person/Bodily Injury per Accident/Property Damage (in thousands). For example, 25/50/25 means $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.

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MONEYGEEK RESOURCES

Does one of these unlicensed scenarios apply to you? MoneyGeek provides resources to help you find insurers that meet your needs. 

Get Car Insurance Without a License: Bottom Line

Car insurance without a driver's license is possible, and understanding your coverage options is key to finding the right policy. Whether insuring a vehicle you don't drive, covering a teen driver or meeting SR-22 requirements, solutions like naming a licensed primary driver, parked car insurance, and non-owner policies can help. While major insurers may have strict requirements, smaller companies and brokers offer more flexibility.

Remember that maintaining continuous insurance protects your financial interests and helps avoid penalties that could complicate future license reinstatement or vehicle registration. Start by contacting insurers directly, as most don't offer online applications for unlicensed drivers. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your situation and consider working with specialized insurers if major companies decline coverage.

Insurance for No Driver's License: FAQ

Below, MoneyGeek's experts answered common questions about car insurance without a license.

Can I get car insurance without a license?

Can I buy car insurance for someone else?

Is car insurance without a license more expensive?

Can foreigners drive in the U.S. without a U.S. license?

What documents do I need to get car insurance without a license?

Which insurance companies accept applications without a license?

Can I get car insurance with a suspended license?

What is SR-22 insurance, and do I need it without a license?

What's the difference between SR-22 and FR-44 requirements?

Can I get discounts on car insurance without a license?

What is parked car insurance and when do I need it?

How do I add a primary driver to my car insurance policy?

Car Insurance With No License: Our Methodology

Finding car insurance without a license is challenging. Most insurers hesitate to cover unlicensed drivers and those that do charge steep premiums. We designed our research to identify which companies provide coverage and what you can expect to pay.

How We Analyzed Coverage Options

We contacted insurance companies to determine their policies for unlicensed drivers, since this information isn't readily available in standard quote systems. Our approach focused on real-world scenarios where someone needs coverage without a license: getting your license back after suspension, preparing to take your driving test or needing coverage for a vehicle you own but don't personally drive.

Sample Driver Profile

We calculated rates using a standard profile to ensure consistent comparisons across insurers:

  • 40-year-old driver
  • Clean driving record (when applicable)
  • 2010 Toyota Camry LE
  • 12,000 miles driven annually
  • 100/300/100 coverage with comprehensive and collision
  • $1,000 deductible

For unlicensed driver scenarios, we adjusted this profile to reflect different situations: suspended license holders, permit-only drivers, and people who've never held a license.

Coverage Details

Our 100/300/100 policy provides strong financial protection:

  • $100,000 bodily injury coverage per person
  • $300,000 bodily injury coverage per accident
  • $100,000 property damage coverage per accident

The $1,000 deductible represents the amount you'd pay before insurance covers vehicle damage. Higher deductibles reduce your monthly premium, which helps offset the higher rates unlicensed drivers face.

Data Sources

Our analysis draws from 83,056 quotes across 46 insurance companies in 473 ZIP codes. We sourced this data from Quadrant Information Services and state insurance departments, then supplemented it with direct insurer contact to verify policies for unlicensed drivers, something standard data doesn't capture.

We analyzed coverage options from major national insurers and specialists serving high-risk drivers. We evaluated companies based on their willingness to insure unlicensed drivers, coverage options available, application processes, and geographic availability.

Information about state requirements comes from state insurance department websites and current insurance regulations. Premium estimates reflect ranges based on industry data, though actual costs vary based on individual circumstances, location, and chosen coverage levels.

We recommend getting personalized quotes from multiple insurers, as rates and availability vary significantly for specialty insurance situations.

Auto Insurance Without a License: Related Articles

About Mark Fitzpatrick


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Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!

Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.


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