Motorcycle insurance requirements by state

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Motorcycle requirements vary significantly by state, encompassing everything from licensing and training to equipment and insurance. Most states require a specific motorcycle endorsement or license, which typically involves passing a written knowledge test and a skills test, though some states may waive these requirements if a rider completes an approved safety course. In addition, many states have minimum age requirements for obtaining a motorcycle permit or license, and they may impose restrictions on younger or novice riders, such as limiting the time of day they can ride or the engine size of their motorcycle.

States also differ in their requirements for motorcycle equipment and insurance. For example, helmet laws vary widely, with some states mandating helmet use for all riders, while others only require it for specific age groups or those with certain levels of experience. Additionally, many states require motorcycles to be equipped with specific safety features, such as functioning turn signals, mirrors, and mufflers. Insurance requirements can also differ, with some states requiring only liability coverage, while others mandate additional coverage types, like personal injury protection or uninsured motorist coverage. It’s important for riders to understand their state’s specific motorcycle requirements to ensure compliance and safety on the road.

You can find your state’s motorcycle insurance requirements in the graph below. How to read the liability limits: The first number is the bodily injury liability maximum for one person injured in an accident. The second number is the bodily injury liability maximum for all injuries in one accident. And the third number is the property-damage liability maximum for one accident.

Michelle Megna

Contributor

 

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Michelle, the former editorial director, insurance, at QuinStreet, is a writer, editor and expert on car insurance and personal finance. Prior to joining QuinStreet, she reported and edited articles on technology, lifestyle, education and government for magazines, websites and major newspapers, including the New York Daily News.