Most auto insurance companies won’t sell a policy to an unlicensed driver, but there are workarounds if you have a suspended license or don’t plan to drive.
It’s not easy to get car insurance coverage without a license—but you may find a company willing to work with you if your license is suspended, you have a learner’s permit, or you don’t plan to drive.
Most car insurance companies require a driver’s license number to sell a policy.
without a current license, when it comes time to purchase an actual auto insurance policy, you’ll need to provide a driver’s license number. Without it, almost no insurance company will let you buy a policy.
If your license is suspended: You may be able to apply for a restricted license, which will allow you to drive under certain circumstances. Note that you may also need to
to prove financial responsibility—and you should expect to pay higher car insurance rates due to your troubled driving history.
If your license is revoked: Unfortunately, you’re unlikely to find insurance carriers who are willing to sell you a policy because you don’t have any driving privileges.
6 ways to find car insurance if you don’t have a license
Get a state ID card: Even if you don’t have a license, you’ll definitely need some form of ID to purchase an insurance policy. If you don’t already have a state-issued identification card, make that your first stop.
Go local: If you don’t have a driver’s license and you need an auto insurance policy, talk to an independent local insurance agent. An independent agent will have access to providers in your area who may be willing to insure you based on your driving history and current circumstances.
Add someone else to your vehicle title: This won’t be the best option for everyone, but if one person regularly drives your vehicle—like a family member or spouse—consider adding them as a co-owner of the vehicle. Then, you can purchase the insurance policy in their name.
Beware of listing yourself as an excluded driver: You shouldn’t be driving without a license—but if you list yourself as an excluded driver, it means you absolutely will not be covered by insurance if you’re driving the vehicle and you get into an accident. That makes this an especially risky option—even if your insurance agent suggests it.
Ask about specialized insurance that fits your needs: If you have a vintage car that’s in storage most of the time,
might be right for you. Or, if you want to keep insurance on a parked car while your license is suspended, you might drop collision and liability coverage but keep
coverage to ensure your car is protected from things like theft or vandalism.
Check whether your state has a risk pool: If you can’t find anyone who will cover you, talk to your agent to find out how to apply to your state’s assigned risk pool. If you’re approved, your state will assign you to an insurer—and they must provide you coverage at that point. Be aware that these types of
Reasons you might need insurance if you don’t have a license
You only have your learner’s permit but want to purchase a car before you pass your driving test
You don’t drive, but you’re the parent of a licensed driver under 18 (minors under 18 are not legally able to purchase an insurance policy in their name)
You don’t drive, but you do own a car that others sometimes drive for you
You have a classic or parked car
You plan to drive again eventually and want to avoid a lapse in coverage
In some of these cases, it’s possible to find an insurance company willing to work with your situation—but you’ll need to do some searching to find the right company.
Note for elderly or disabled drivers: Look for non-driver insurance with The Hartford, which has an exclusive contract with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP®). You’ll be listed on the policy as a nondriver, and you can designate a caregiver as the primary driver.
Need to know: If you choose to drive without a license under someone else’s insurance policy, the policyholder’s insurance could be canceled if you get into an accident. If that happens, they’ll have trouble finding affordable insurance again, since the incident will be on their record.
How to find cheap car insurance with no license
If you don’t have a driver’s license, it probably feels like the best car insurance for you might be whichever provider is willing to offer you coverage. Still, it’s a good idea to shop around—talk to your independent agent about all of your options, and compare quotes from 3–5 insurance companies to make sure you’re getting the lowest auto insurance rates available to you.
under some circumstances. While a national company like Allstate isn’t likely to work with you unless you have a valid license, you may be able to find coverage elsewhere. Elderly drivers should contact agents at The Hartford, while high-risk drivers who will get their licenses back soon may find coverage with GEICO, Progressive, or a smaller local or regional insurer like Aspire.
Can you get car insurance without a license in Louisiana?
and want to get car insurance without a license, you’ll need to find an insurance provider willing to work with you. If you’re unable to drive, finding a company that will list you as a nondriver is your best bet. If your license is suspended, look for companies that handle
Does a driver’s license need to be current to get car insurance?
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You don’t just need a license to get a car insurance policy—that license has to be up to date. If your license has expired, it’s time to head to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to renew it.
Can you go to jail for driving without a license?
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Yes. In most states, mandatory jail time is one of the penalties for driving without a license—even if it’s your first time. While the sentencing guidelines vary, in some states you could go to jail for multiple years just for driving without a license.
Can you buy a car without a driver’s license?
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Yes—but it’s not a straightforward process. You’ll need another form of ID, and many lenders won’t approve a car loan for an unlicensed driver. And if you plan to drive the vehicle you’re purchasing, you’ll face the same challenges getting liability insurance to legally operate the car.
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