Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Texas?
Yes. Just like with cars and trucks, Texas law requires motorcycle riders to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. Before you can legally register your bike and get a license plate, you must show proof of insurance.
Here in Texas, the minimum liability coverage required for motorcycles is:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
This coverage helps protect other people if you’re at fault in an accident, whether it’s causing injuries or damage to someone’s property.
Can You Buy a Motorcycle Without Insurance?
Yes, you can purchase a motorcycle without insurance. But if you plan on riding it on Texas roads, you’ll need insurance before you can register it. Riding uninsured is not only illegal, it could result in fines, license suspension, or even your bike getting impounded.
When Do You Need to Have Motorcycle Insurance?
You should have insurance in place in any of the following situations:
- You're registering your motorcylce: Proof of insurance is required to complete your registration with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
- You're riding with a temporary permit: Even if you’re still learning, Texas likely still expects you to meet insurance requirements.
- You financed your motorcycle: Most lenders will require that you carry both comprehensive and collision coverage to protect their investment.
How Much Coverage Do You Actually Need?
While Texas sets minimum limits for liability coverage, that doesn’t necessarily mean that’s all you should carry. If your personal assets are worth more than the minimum coverage, it’s smart to increase your limits to better protect yourself financially in case of a serious accident.
If you financed your motorcycle, your lender may require:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects against things like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
- Collision Coverage: Covers damage to your bike in the event of an accident, regardless of who’s at fault.
You can typically choose your deductible amount, higher deductibles can lower your monthly premium, but you'll pay more out of pocket if you file a claim.
What If Your Motorcycle Is Paid Off?
Even if your motorcycle is fully paid off, comprehensive and collision coverage can still be worthwhile, especially if your bike is newer or still has significant value.
But if it’s older or worth only a few thousand dollars, you might consider skipping those extras and sticking with just liability.
