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Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License? What You Should Know

Find out if you can get car insurance without a license, who needs it, and what options are available for non-licensed drivers.

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One of the responsibilities of owning a car is purchasing an auto insurance policy that financially protects you in case of an accident. While most auto insurance companies require policyholders to be licensed drivers, in some circumstances drivers can get car insurance without a license.

Here’s what you need to know about getting auto insurance if you don’t have a driver’s license and tips to secure the right coverage for your needs.

Understanding Car Insurance Requirements

Every state has different car insurance requirements, including the minimum amount of coverage you need to operate the vehicle on public roads and highways. Depending on whether your state is a no-fault or at-fault state, here are common types of auto insurance the local laws may require:

  • Liability coverage
  • Personal injury protection (PIP)
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
  • Collision coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage

Review the insurance requirements of your state:

Conditions for Obtaining Car Insurance Without a License

How can you get car insurance without a driver’s license? In some cases, unlicensed car owners are able to secure insurance coverage if they meet certain criteria.

Holding a Learner’s Permit

Adults with a learner’s permit or other types of special licenses must have insurance to drive their vehicle. However, finding an auto insurance company that insures drivers with only a learner’s permit can be challenging. Consider adding a licensed co-owner to your car registration to qualify for more insurance coverage options.

Insuring a Vehicle for Minors

If your child is a licensed driver under 18, they cannot sign a legally binding insurance policy contract until they are an adult. As a parent and owner of the vehicle, you can purchase car insurance and list your minor as the licensed driver — even if you don’t have a valid driver’s license yourself.

Maintaining Coverage During a License Suspension

If you have a suspended license, it’s a good idea to maintain your insurance coverage if you’re planning on driving again. You will need car insurance before you can drive after your license is reinstated, and keeping the policy you have could help you save money.

Remember that your state may require drivers with suspended licenses to complete an SR-22 form, which is a certificate of financial responsibility. Your insurance company must file the SR-22 form with the state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to show that you carry the state’s required minimum liability coverage.

Owning a Car That You Don't Drive

You may also get car insurance without a driver's license if you own a car but do not drive it. If there is another person who will mainly drive the car, you will need to list them as the primary driver to secure auto insurance. This could be any licensed individual who drives the car, including:

  • Spouse
  • Caregiver
  • A friend who provides transportation for you
  • An employee who drives your company vehicle

Also, some insurance companies will need to list you as an excluded driver in these cases, meaning your policy will not cover claims for any incidents in which you were the driver. This will leave you open to financial liability if you decide to drive without a license. Understand the risks of driving without car insurance before agreeing to be an excluded driver on your policy.

Getting Parked-Car or Classic Car Coverage

Unlicensed drivers who plan to keep their cars in storage or have a classic car they do not drive may get comprehensive coverage without a driver’s license. Comprehensive insurance protects against property damage such as vandalism, theft, or a natural disaster. However, it does not cover vehicle damage caused by an accident.

Unlicensed Driver’s Insurance: What Is It?

Unlicensed driver’s insurance is auto insurance coverage for an individual without a valid license. If you do not have a driver’s license and are shopping for car insurance, it’s important to understand that insurers may put you in the same category as high-risk drivers.

It may be more difficult to find a national insurance company that offers coverage to uninsured drivers. A local independent agent sometimes offers more flexibility when issuing policies to unlicensed drivers.

Also, you will need some form of government-issued identification to purchase auto insurance. Some insurance providers may require a state-issued ID card to cover drivers without a license. 

Notable Insurance Providers for Unlicensed Individuals

Some insurance companies provide minimum liability coverage for drivers without a license. However, you will need to shop around to find coverage that meets your state’s requirements at an affordable rate. 

Insurance prices change every day, so the best way to get the insurance you need for the best price is to compare and shop often. Getting customized quotes only takes a few minutes and is always free with EverQuote. Find insurers that may offer car insurance for people without a license with a custom comparison now.

Understanding Your Options and Responsibilities

Although finding car insurance without a driver’s license may be challenging, you do have options. Get quotes from EverQuote to find the insurance you need. Remember that it’s your responsibility to purchase the minimum coverage your state requires before you or anyone else gets behind the wheel of your car.

FAQs

Finding car insurance coverage without a license can be confusing if you don’t know where to start. Here are frequently asked questions and answers to point you in the right direction.

Can I insure a car I don’t drive?
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Yes, car owners can insure a vehicle they don’t drive under some circumstances. For example, a parent can insure a car for their child with a driver’s license, or a vehicle owner who does not drive may secure auto insurance coverage if they list another person as the primary driver.
What happens if an unlicensed driver causes an accident?
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It is illegal to drive without a valid driver’s license. When an unlicensed driver causes a crash, they are violating traffic laws and could face serious consequences for getting behind the wheel without a license. Also, if the unlicensed driver does not have car insurance, they could be liable for damages caused by the accident.
Can I get car insurance without a license?
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You may qualify to get car insurance coverage without a valid license in some instances. Certain auto insurance companies issue policies to adult drivers with a learner’s permit or a suspended license, or other unlicensed car owners.