Though it’s difficult to get car insurance with no license, there are some methods experts tend to recommend.
- Talk to an independent insurance agent: These agents can write insurance policies for many companies and may work with local insurers that offer coverage to unlicensed drivers.
- List someone else as the primary driver: If you own a car but don’t drive it, some insurance companies will allow you to list another person as the primary driver. The primary driver may need to be a member of your household, but requirements vary by company.
- Add a co-owner to your car’s registration: This is a handy workaround if you can’t find an insurance company since vehicle ownership is usually a requirement for getting car insurance. The process to add a co-owner is fairly straightforward. Most states require you to file a form with the department of motor vehicles and pay a fee.
- Buy parked-car coverage: If you don’t have a license and are storing or parking your car for an extended time, you may be able to purchase parked-car or car storage insurance.
- List yourself as an excluded driver: Be careful with this option — while your insurance company may allow it, you won’t be adequately covered if you get in an accident or drive illegally.
Reasons To Get Car Insurance With No License
Because getting car insurance as an unlicensed driver is so difficult, it’s important to work with an agent who understands your situation. Here are some of the most common reasons you would need to get car insurance with no license:
Your Driver’s License Has Been Revoked or Suspended
If your license has been revoked, say for a DUI conviction or multiple traffic violations, the state may order you to get SR-22 insurance. SR-22 insurance isn’t actually an insurance policy. It’s a form that an insurer files with the DMV to prove you have the state’s minimum liability insurance. Essentially, it’s a statement of financial responsibility.
You No Longer Drive
If you no longer drive due to disability, age or any other reason, you may still own a car but have a friend, family member or caregiver drive it for you. In these instances, you may want to purchase car insurance but list yourself as the excluded driver.
You’re Insuring a Car for a Minor
Say you’ve purchased a car for your teen driver. Depending on the insurance carrier, you may be able to buy an insurance policy that covers your teen’s car under your name. In this scenario, you would list your teen as the primary driver and yourself as the excluded driver. This option may be more expensive than simply adding your teen to your existing insurance policy.
You Only Have a Learner’s Permit
Adults with driver’s permits may have a harder time getting cheap car insurance. If you have your permit but don’t yet have a valid license, contact local agents to find an insurer with more lenient requirements.
You Collect Classic Cars or Have a Car in Long-Term Parking or Storage
If you bought a classic car but don’t plan to drive it, you may still want to insure that valuable asset. Some insurance companies offer classic car insurance, which is generally more affordable than regular car insurance, especially if you’re not driving the vehicle.
When you’re storing a vehicle that doesn’t qualify as a classic car, consider buying comprehensive insurance. A comprehensive-only policy will cover your parked or stored car in the event of non-collision property damage like theft, vandalism or natural disaster.
