Auto Insurance
Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?
Compare Rates
Ensure you're getting the best rate. Review quotes from a top insurance company.
Getting car insurance without a license is challenging since insurers often label you high-risk.
Those looking to get car insurance with a suspended license are more likely to get coverage than those with no license, though they may need to file an SR-22 depending on the reasons for their license suspension and where they live.
If you don't have a license, you can still list yourself as an excluded driver, choose comprehensive-only insurance or look into SR-22 insurance.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Getting car insurance when you don't have a license is difficult, but it's possible to find insurers that will let you buy a policy if they list you as an excluded driver.
Being listed as an excluded driver is a good solution for those who are driven around by others or don't plan to drive but have a young household member who wants to drive.
If you have a suspended license, your options may differ. For instance, you may be able to find an insurer that will cover you and file an SR-22 form.
Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?
It is possible to secure car insurance without a driver's license. Legally speaking, you can obtain car insurance even if you don't have a license. But here's the catch: the vast majority of insurers prioritize licensing. Why? Because it's their window into your driving history, which they scrutinize to assess the risk you pose and the likelihood of you, an unlicensed driver, filing a claim.
Given this, it might seem like an uphill battle, but hope isn't lost. While challenging, there are still avenues you can explore to get car insurance without a license. Some possible solutions include naming yourself as an excluded driver, opting for comprehensive-only insurance or considering an SR-22 insurance policy. With persistence and the right approach, you can get car insurance with no license.
WHAT IS AN EXCLUDED DRIVER?
An excluded driver is someone specified in a car insurance policy as not receiving coverage. If an excluded driver operates the insured vehicle and gets into an accident, the insurance will not cover the damages. In essence, the excluded driver has no insurance protection under that policy.
This brings up the question, "Does car insurance follow the car or the driver?" While car insurance typically follows the car, the policy won't cover the damages if an excluded driver uses the vehicle and has an accident. Essentially, they're unprotected under that insurance.
Keep in mind that not every state permits excluded drivers. For instance, New York doesn't let you exclude household members, and Rhode Island also prohibits family exclusions.
How To Get Car Insurance Without a License
The best way to get insurance without a license depends on your needs. Below, MoneyGeek broke down how to get car insurance for people who don't drive but are part of households that own a car, people who are storing their car or people with unique vehicles.
You don't drive, but your kids do
If your teen has a license, but you don't, you can try to buy a car insurance policy and name yourself as an excluded driver.
You're a senior who doesn't drive, but you need someone to drive you
If you own a car, but others drive you, you should try to buy car insurance naming yourself as an excluded driver.
Your spouse has a license, and you don't
If your spouse has a license, the easiest solution is to make them co-owner or owner of the car. Once they are co-owner, they can buy a policy for the vehicle you're trying to insure.
You own a car that is in storage
If your car doesn't see any action on the road, you may be able to buy comprehensive-only insurance from an insurance company. This will only protect the vehicle from non-driving incidents like theft and weather, so an insurer may be willing to provide this coverage even though you're unlicensed.
You own a classic or vintage car you don't drive
Look into classic car insurance, which provides policies tailored specifically to vintage and specialty cars that may not see the road.
Your license is suspended
If your license is suspended due to a violation, you might need SR-22 car insurance to reinstate it. SR-22 is proof of financial responsibility. However, remember, this won't provide coverage. In Virginia or Florida, serious violations may require filing for FR-44 insurance.
You need proof of insurance coverage for a driving test
When taking a driving test in most states, insurance isn't a requirement. However, depending on your state, you might need insurance if using a car owned by a driving school, friend, or family member. For your own car, check with the local DMV to be sure. States like California and Texas may require proof of insurance.
Obtaining car insurance without a license is similar to getting insurance with a license, but it may require more effort.
Unlicensed drivers can still approach national insurers, but local providers and independent brokers increase the odds of finding auto insurance without a driver's license. Instead of presenting your license, you'll need the primary driver's license for the policy, the one who drives the most.
MONEYGEEK RESOURCES
Do any of these unlicensed scenarios describe you? If so, MoneyGeek resources to help you find companies that fit your needs.
- If your kids are licensed and driving, MoneyGeek identified companies that sell cheap and quality car insurance for teens.
- If you're a senior, MoneyGeek has resources on the best car insurance for seniors.
- If you’re a high-risk driver, MoneyGeek has a guide on the best and cheapest car insurance for high-risk drivers.
- If you have a specialty car, MoneyGeek identified the best insurance for classic or vintage cars.
Why Car Insurance Companies Ask For Your Driver’s License
Having a driver's license is your ticket to the road, issued by the state after assessing your skills. It signifies that you've met certain standards and are a safe driver. Essentially, your driving history is like a report card, revealing how likely you are to encounter bumps or crashes.
Ever wonder how insurance companies seem to know so much about your driving past? Your driver's license number is the gateway to your driving history. It's all documented, from minor traffic violations to significant mishaps like DUIs. This record helps insurers gauge your risk level, influencing the price tag on your car insurance.
Can you get car insurance without a license?
Technically, yes. But here's the hitch — expect higher rates. Without a license, you're charting into unknown territory for insurers. No driving history creates uncertainty, making you a potentially riskier bet in their eyes.
So, while a driver's license might seem like just another ID, in the world of insurance, it reflects your journey on the road.
CAN YOU GET CAR INSURANCE WITH A RESTRICTED LICENSE?
Good news — you can get car insurance with a temporary or restricted license. But brace yourself; it might cost more than policies for drivers with full licenses.
To get coverage, share your essential details like name, address, date of birth and license type. Don't forget to mention the primary driver's name and license number.
Do You Need To Get Car Insurance With No License?
As an unlicensed driver, you may still need car insurance.
Most states require car insurance if the car is registered under your name or you're the owner. Even if you're a young driver on a learner's permit, some companies might insure you if your car is titled under your name.
Maintaining insurance can prevent coverage lapses and future premium increases. Some providers offer discounts for continuous coverage.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT DRIVING WITHOUT A LICENSE
Driving without a license is illegal, and insurance won't protect you in this situation. If caught, you may face fines, penalties and potential jail time. Your insurance might not cover the damages in an accident, leaving you responsible for all costs. Stay safe and legal by driving with a valid license and proper insurance.
Compare Insurance Rates
Ensure you are getting the best rate for your insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
Where To Get Insurance With No License
Getting car insurance may be challenging if you don't have a license. However, you can still try two routes: consult an independent broker with local knowledge or directly approach insurance companies to find policies that cover unlicensed drivers. Smaller regional insurers might be more accommodating in this situation.
Buy No-License Car Insurance Through an Independent Broker
Insurers are more likely to reject covering you if you have no license, and working with an insurance broker or independent agent can help accelerate your search, given their local knowledge and expertise. Rather than contacting all available insurance companies yourself, you can rely on an agent or broker to tell you which insurance company is most likely to offer you a policy even though you are unlicensed.
An insurance broker is representing you and is not associated with an insurance company. Their expertise can help you find an insurer that's a good fit.
An independent insurance agent is a representative of several insurance companies, and they earn a commission for policies they sell to you. They'll be more likely to push you toward the companies they represent, but they will also have intimate knowledge of those insurers and how likely they are to cover you.
To find an agent or broker, you could start with the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America, which can match you to a network of agents.
Auto Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
You may still have questions regarding securing a car insurance policy if you don’t have a license. Here are some of the most common.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
sources
- Insurance Information Institute. "Facts and Statistics: Distracted Driving." Accessed July 20, 2020.
- State of CT Department of Motor Vehicles. "Adding, Dropping, or Changing a Name on a Registration or Title." Accessed July 20, 2020.
- Texas Department of Public Safety. "What is a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22)?." Accessed August 5, 2020.
- Texas Department of Public Safety. "Section 2: Scheduling a Road Test." Accessed July 31, 2023.
- State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. "Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test Preparation." Accessed July 31, 2023.
- State of Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation. "2021 Property & Casualty, Rate, Rule & Policy Form Filing Requirements and Regulatory Compliance." Accessed July 31, 2023.
- New York State Department of Financial Services. "Re: Named Driver Exclusion in Commercial Auto Liability Policy." Accessed July 31, 2023.