Can you get auto insurance without a license? The short answer is yes, it’s absolutely possible. While the process might be a bit different from the standard way of getting coverage, many people find themselves in this exact situation. Maybe you’re buying a car for a family member, you have a classic car in storage, or your license is currently suspended. Whatever your reason, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Reasons You Might Need Auto Insurance with No License
The most common reason for needing car insurance without a license is that you won’t be the one driving the vehicle. Here are a few scenarios where this applies:
- You Are Insuring a Primary Driver: If you own a car that someone else—like a spouse, a family member, or a caregiver—will be driving regularly, you need to insure the vehicle and list them as the primary driver.
- Your License is Suspended or Revoked: Many states require you to show proof of financial responsibility, often through an SR-22 or FR-44 filing, to get your license reinstated. You can often get a non-owner policy to meet this requirement.
- You Are a Student with a Learner’s Permit: Minors or new drivers often can’t legally sign an insurance contract. A parent or guardian can purchase the policy and add the student driver to the coverage.
- You Have a Classic Car in Storage: Even if your car is not being driven, you’ll want to protect your valuable asset from damage, theft, or fire. A comprehensive-only policy is a great option for this.
How to Get Car Insurance Without a License (Step-by-Step)
The process is simpler than you might think, but you’ll need to be prepared. Following these steps can help you get the coverage you need.
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Designate a Primary Driver
When you purchase the policy, you will need to list a licensed driver who will be the main operator of the vehicle. This is crucial because insurance companies base premiums on the driving history of the person behind the wheel. If the primary driver has a clean record, you’ll likely get a much better rate.
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Become an “Excluded” Driver
In most cases, the insurance company will require you to be listed as an “excluded” driver on the policy. This is a formal statement that the insurance will not cover you if you drive the car. This prevents the insurer from taking on a risk they haven’t assessed.
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Gather Your Documents
You won’t have a driver’s license, but you will still need a valid form of identification. A state-issued ID card or a passport will often suffice. You’ll also need the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and other details about the car you are insuring.
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Call Insurance Providers Directly
While many online quote tools require a driver’s license number, most major and non-standard insurance companies will work with you over the phone. Calling and speaking with an agent is often the easiest and most direct way to explain your specific situation and get a quote.
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Compare Quotes from Non-Standard Insurers
Some of the larger, standard insurers may be hesitant to write a policy for an unlicensed driver. If this happens, don’t give up. Look into “non-standard” insurance companies that specialize in covering high-risk drivers or unique situations.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
Higher Premiums
You may face higher premiums because without a license, the insurance company can’t access your driving history. They may classify you as a high-risk policyholder. The best way to combat this is to compare quotes from multiple insurers and ensure you have a clean-record primary driver on the policy.
Limited Policy Options
Your options may be limited to specific policy types. For example, if you’re insuring a classic car that’s not driven, you can get a comprehensive-only policy. This will cover damage from things like fire, theft, or vandalism while the car is in storage, but it won’t cover collisions.
Learn more about different types of car insurance coverage.
The Bottom Line
Obtaining auto insurance without a driver’s license is not just possible; it’s a common need. By understanding why you need coverage and being prepared with the right information, you can find a policy that protects your vehicle and allows a trusted, licensed driver to get behind the wheel. The key is to be honest about your situation and work directly with an insurance agent to find the right solution.
