Yes, you can often get car insurance without a driver's license, though your options may be limited. Some insurance companies offer policies to unlicensed vehicle owners, while others may require you to list a licensed primary driver on the policy.
Whether you are working toward reinstating a suspended license, holding a learner’s permit, or owning a car that others drive, insurance is often required to keep the vehicle legally registered or to satisfy state laws.
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Car insurance typically follows the vehicle, not the driver. This means the car itself needs coverage regardless of whether the owner has a valid license. When you don't have a license, insurers generally handle this in one of two ways.
Some companies will issue a policy in your name but require you to list a licensed driver as the primary operator of the vehicle. Others may ask that the licensed driver be listed as the primary policyholder, with you listed as the vehicle owner.
The key requirement is that whoever regularly drives the car must be licensed and listed on the policy. Insurance companies need to assess driving risk, and they do that based on the driving record of the person behind the wheel.
Several situations may require you to insure a vehicle even if you can't legally drive it.
You own a car someone else drives. You may own a vehicle that a family member, caregiver, or employee uses regularly. The car still needs insurance, and you may be listed as the owner on the policy.
Your license is suspended. If your license is temporarily suspended, you may still need to maintain insurance on your vehicle—especially if your state requires proof of continuous coverage to reinstate your license.
You have a medical condition. Some medical conditions prevent people from driving, but you may still own a car that others in your household use.
You're a new resident or permit holder. If you recently moved to the U.S. or are waiting to obtain a license, you may need coverage for a vehicle in the interim.
If you don't own a vehicle and don't plan to drive, you likely don't need car insurance. However, if you occasionally borrow or rent cars, a non-owner insurance policy may be worth considering instead.
When insuring a vehicle without a license, you can typically access the same coverage types as any other auto policy.
Liability coverage pays for injuries and property damage you (or the listed driver) cause to others in an accident. Most states require minimum liability coverage.
Collision coverage helps pay to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault.
Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle from events like theft, vandalism, or weather.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if the listed driver is hit by someone without adequate insurance.
Your coverage options and limits may vary depending on the insurer and your state's requirements.
Rules vary by state. Some states allow you to register a vehicle without a license, while others require a valid license or permit. Check with your local DMV for specific requirements in your area.
It may. Some insurers view unlicensed vehicle owners as higher risk, which can result in higher premiums. However, rates depend heavily on the driving record of the licensed driver listed on the policy.
Yes, in many cases. The licensed driver can be listed as the primary policyholder, with you listed as the vehicle owner. This arrangement varies by insurer, so you may need to ask about specific options.
You can often still get insurance, and in some cases you may be required to maintain coverage. Some states require an SR-22 or FR-44 filing to prove you have insurance before your license can be reinstated.
If you own a registered vehicle, most states require it to be insured—even if you never drive it yourself. Alternatively, some states allow you to file for a non-operational or planned non-operation status to avoid insurance requirements.