Motorcycle Insurance in the United States
Nearly every state that requires car insurance requires motorcycle insurance too — with a few rider-specific rules layered on top.
Motorcycle insurance in the US follows the same state-by-state structure as car insurance, but with additional requirements around licence endorsements and rider-specific coverage that don't apply to standard vehicles.
State Minimum Requirements
Most states require motorcycle liability insurance at similar minimum limits to passenger vehicles, with New Hampshire as the main exception. Beyond the legal minimum, insurers require a valid motorcycle licence endorsement (commonly an M-class endorsement) before issuing a policy at all.
Guest Passenger Liability
This covers injury to a passenger riding with you, and isn't automatically included on every policy. If you regularly ride with a passenger, confirm this is specifically included rather than assuming standard liability extends to cover them.
Custom Parts and Equipment Coverage
Standard comprehensive cover often excludes aftermarket modifications. Custom Parts and Equipment (CPE) coverage protects modifications specifically, and is worth adding if your bike has been customised beyond factory specification.
Seasonal Lay-Up Coverage
Riders in states with real winters often store their bike for several months. Some insurers offer reduced lay-up premiums for genuine storage periods when the bike isn't being ridden at all.
Key Guidance
Confirm Guest Passenger Liability and Custom Parts coverage specifically if either applies to you — neither is guaranteed to be automatically included. For the full picture on getting covered and filing a claim, read our complete guide.
In-Depth Guide
Motorcycle Insurance in the US: How to Get It and How to Claim It
Full application and claims process →
AutoInsurances.online is an independent information service. Some links on this page are affiliate links. Affiliate Disclosure · Privacy Policy