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By Renata Balasco
Updated November 24, 2021
Reviewed By Tony Garcia
Edited By Ross Martin

Can you get car insurance without a license?

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, it’s a bit more difficult and typically more expensive. Having a valid driver's license is important in getting an accurate quote for car insurance. Your driver's license allows insurance companies to assess your driving record, which feeds into your final insurance quote. Insurers use your driving resumé to predict the risk you pose and how much they should charge for a policy. Car insurance companies see risk in an unlicensed driver, regardless of your reason for being unlicensed.

However, there are some ways to get auto insurance without a license.

Table of contents:

  1. How to get car insurance without a license
  2. Why do insurance companies prefer licensed drivers?
  3. Can you buy a car without a license?
  4. FAQs

How do you get car insurance without a license?

While not as easy as buying car insurance with a valid license, it is possible to get insurance without a drivers license.  Those who are looking for car insurance without a driver's license will have to go a step further than most policyholders. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

 

Best ways to find car insurance without a license

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Speak with an independent agent

These agents are licensed to write auto insurance policies for different insurers and could be familiar with local companies that issue no-license car insurance. The Zebra’s licensed insurance professionals are available to talk through options—use our quote tool to start the process and connect with an agent or call us directly at 1-888-444-2833.

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Get a state-issued ID card

Some insurance companies will cover you if you have a state-issued ID card. Popular car insurance companies like Commonwealth, Advantage Auto and Direct Auto will take a state-issued ID card and issue unlicensed drivers a policy.

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DON'T buy a policy and list yourself as an excluded driver

This method has been recommended by other sources, but it is a risky option. While you are technically insured, an excluded driver is often not adequately protected should an accident occur.

ZEBRA TIP: Always be truthful regarding your license status

An insurer will run a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) when calculating your premium. An MVR details your driving history. If you use a fake or invalid driver's license number, it will register on your MVR. The insurer could drop you, forcing you to start over again. In the long run, it pays to be upfront about your driving situation. 

Why do insurance companies prefer drivers with licenses?

Your driver's license is the best way for insurance companies to assess your driving record, one of the most important factors in determining the risk you pose as an insured policyholder. These details are essential to calculating your final insurance quote. Without this information, it is far more difficult for insurance companies to understand the risk they would take on having you as a policyholder. Car insurance companies see risk in an unlicensed driver, regardless of your reason for being unlicensed.

Can you buy a car without a license? 

Before you get a car insurance policy, you need to find a car. It is legal to purchase a car without a valid license, but the process is easier if you are a licensed driver. Some car dealerships strictly enforce proof-of-insurance driver's license regulations. Some auto dealers require a photocopy of your insurance card and driver's license before allowing you to take a test drive. Others are more focused on their sale than your legal ability to drive. It depends on the individual dealership's protocols.

It's much easier to buy a vehicle without a license than it is to purchase insurance coverage with no license, as the dealership forgoes responsibility after purchase. The more complicated step is getting an insurance policy with no driver's license.

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Why insure a vehicle that you don’t plan to drive?

Having insurance is never a bad idea. While you might not have a valid driver's license right now, that could change, and it’s in your best interest to avoid lapses in coverage and in turn, future premium increases. There are several other scenarios in which you may want to insure your vehicle without being able to drive it — you may just have your driver’s permit or have previously driven a car but are currently unable to operate it. In many cases, people without drivers licenses will acquire them eventually, and having continuous coverage in the meantime is encouraged. 

Your best bet for finding insurance is to speak with an independent agent. These agents could be familiar with local companies that issue no-license car insurance.

Car insurance without a license FAQs

Below are answers to some common questions about getting car insurance without a license.

Can you insure a car under someone else's policy? Chevron down icon

Yes, as long as you share an address with the primary policyholder, you are specifically named on that policy, and the insurance company is okay with your unlicensed status or license suspension. You may have a hard time finding an insurance carrier if your driver's license isn't valid.

Should you still keep your car insurance if your own a car but no longer have a license? Chevron down icon

To avoid higher rates due to a lapse in coverage, consider maintaining state minimum liability coverage on the vehicle, even if you can no longer drive. As long as the car is registered, it must be insured.

How do you get car insurance without a license if someone else drives you around in your vehicle? Chevron down icon

Shop for your own car insurance policy and add your primary driver to it. Then, make yourself an excluded driver. This means you won't be covered to drive under your own policy.

Considerations

While it is possible to get car insurance without a license, some insurance companies will take on unlicensed drivers. A licensed insurance agent from The Zebra can help you navigate the tricky process of finding a policy. Simply give us a call at 1-888-255-4364 or enter your info below to get started.

Find the right policy in only a few minutes.

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Renata Balasco
Renata BalascoAssociate Content Strategist

Renata is a licensed insurance professional and content strategist responsible for creating home and auto insurance guides for The Zebra.

Renata's background in technical writing and her experience working in the insurance industry informs her work. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communications.

Renata's work has been cited by Car and Driver. 

Learn more about Renata Balasco Right arrow icon

About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

  • The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.

  • The Zebra’s insurance content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.

  • The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.

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