Auto Insurance Without a License: How It Works

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Key Takeaways

Car insurance helps protect you and your car even if you’re not driving, so it’s a good idea to still have auto insurance without a license.
The Hartford outlines steps to help guide you through the quoting process and makes it simple to get car insurance with no license.
Remember: Having car insurance doesn’t make it legal to drive a car without a valid driver’s license.

Can You Get Car Insurance Without a License?

Yes, auto insurance for unlicensed drivers is possible in certain scenarios. In fact, it can be a smart choice to still carry coverage, even if you don’t drive.

The Hartford makes it easy to understand why you should consider car insurance, how much coverage you should have and how to find the right insurance with no license for your specific needs. Since 1984, we’ve been protecting AARP members and their families with AARP^® Auto Insurance from The Hartford.¹ As a top-rated insurance provider, we proudly offer coverage options to meet the AARP member’s specific lifestyle, plus excellent claims services and customer care.

Do I Need Car Insurance Without a License?

Yes, there are many situations where you might need auto insurance without a license. Even if you don’t have a driver’s license, a few reasons you may need auto insurance are if:

Someone else drives the car. Without car insurance, if your car or passengers get hurt in an accident, you’ll have to pay all the expenses out of pocket.
The vehicle is in storage. Comprehensive insurance, a common car insurance coverage, helps protect your car from things like vandalism, theft or fallen objects like a branch or rock that could damage your vehicle. Even if your car is sitting in storage, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s protected.
You have a learner’s permit. If you have a learner’s permit, chances are you’ll be practicing driving with a family member or instructor. In most states, it’s illegal to drive any vehicle without meeting your state’s car insurance requirements.
You have a suspended or revoked license. When dealing with a suspended or revoked license, state laws require you to prove to the Department of Motor Vehicles that you have at least the minimum amount of car insurance coverage to get your license back.
You are unable to drive yourself. Perhaps you’re unable to drive yourself due to certain limitations. If a licensed driver provides you with transportation in your car, you’ll still need insurance. Plus, if one person uses your car regularly, you’ll need to insure the primary driver on your auto policy.
You own a car that is vintage or a collector’s item. Why would a car need insurance with no driver? Well, even if you aren’t going to drive the car, you may want to get a classic car insurance policy to protect it from damages and theft.
You are insuring a driver under 18. Minors cannot enter into legally binding contracts. So, you may need to purchase car insurance for a driver under 18 with a valid license, even if you won’t be driving the motor vehicle yourself.
You are a new driver. You may be required to show proof of insurance coverage to get a valid driver’s license.

Another reason to have car insurance even if you’re not driving is your safety. Medical payments coverage helps pay for medical services and expenses if you’re struck as a pedestrian, including things like ER visits, ambulance fees or dental procedures.²

How Can I Get Auto Insurance Without a License?

To get auto insurance without a license, you can call your insurer directly. You can also start the process online, but it may be best to speak with a representative to make sure your specific needs are met.

Remember these key steps to get started:

Designate a primary driver. Even if you won’t be driving your vehicle, if someone else will, such as a caregiver or child, you’ll want to make sure they’re listed on your policy.
Add any other drivers who may use your car. Does someone use your car sporadically? If so, it’s important to make sure they’re listed on your policy. That way, they’ll be covered in case anything happens.
Exclude yourself as a driver if you don’t plan to drive. You don’t have to be named as a driver on your policy, especially if you won’t be driving at all.
Consider parked car or storage insurance needs. Auto insurance companies specialize in protecting your car from a range of situations. Even if your vehicle is stationary, making sure you have the right insurance coverage will help protect it from theft or natural disasters.
Work with an insurance agent or company directly for personalized guidance. Getting insurance without a license doesn’t have to be complicated. The Hartford will take the stress off your plate and ensure you have exactly the right coverage you need.

Perk:

If you need less coverage on your policy because you don’t drive your vehicle, you’ll likely save money on insurance costs overall.

Can You Get Car Insurance With a Suspended License?

If you have a suspended or restricted license because of your driving record, a DUI, reckless driving, traffic violations or an at-fault accident where you didn’t have car insurance, you’ll need coverage to reinstate your license.

State laws require you to prove to the Department of Motor Vehicles that you’ve purchased the minimum required coverage. This is because all states’ auto insurance minimum coverage requirements are different. Your insurance carrier will need to submit an SR-22 form, also known as a “Certificate of Financial Responsibility” to confirm your unlicensed car insurance coverage.

couple in car happy to know about no license auto insurance

How Can I Purchase Auto Insurance Without a License?

To buy auto insurance without a license, call The Hartford at 888-546-9099. You can also get a quote online. Remember: if you won’t be driving, you can get insurance quotes without a license by listing the name and license number of your car’s primary driver.

Many insurance companies may flag those without a license as high-risk drivers, but you can still purchase a policy. The Hartford’s representatives are happy to help make sure you get the best no-license auto insurance policy for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Insurance Without a License

What Car Insurance Doesn’t Require a Driver’s License?

There isn't a specific car insurance policy for those without a license. Rather, there are many instances where you can get car insurance without having a license, like if you have a learner’s permit, someone else drives your vehicle or your car is stationary and not driven at all.

Do I Need a U.S. Driver's License To Get Car Insurance?

You can get car insurance without a valid license number in the U.S. If you have a license from another country, you may be charged higher costs if the insurance company is unable to view your driving record. If you simply don’t have a license because you don’t drive or have a learner’s permit, car insurance is still possible.

Does Your Insurance Go Up if Your License Is Suspended?

It’s possible that your insurance rates could increase if you’ve had a suspended license. That’s because you may have a higher perceived risk than someone with a clean driving history.

Can I Get Full Coverage Insurance Without a Driver’s License?

Yes, but simply having full coverage car insurance, which includes liability insurance, doesn’t necessarily protect you from everything. For instance, you’ll want to make sure the person driving your vehicle is named on your policy and has their own valid license. Remember: Having insurance doesn’t make it legal for unlicensed drivers to operate a motor vehicle.

Can You Buy a Car With a Suspended License?

There is no law that says you can’t buy a car without a license or with a suspended license. To register your new car, you’ll need a photo ID and proof of insurance. You’ll then need a license or a learner’s permit if you plan to drive your new car.

Can You Get a License Plate Without a License?

It is possible to get a license plate without a license. You’ll need to obtain your vehicle registration with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. To register your car, your state will require proof of insurance even if you don’t have a valid driver’s license.