You can buy a motorcycle in California without insurance. But you cannot legally register it or ride it on public roads without liability coverage. California Vehicle Code Section 16020 requires all motor vehicle operators, including motorcyclists, to carry minimum liability insurance at all times on public roads. Riding without insurance in California can bring financial penalties, license suspension, and possible vehicle impoundment. It also severely limits your ability to recover damages if you are hurt in an accident (see Proposition 213, California Civil Code Section 3333.4).

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Key Takeaways

  • You can buy a motorcycle without insurance, but you cannot legally ride it on California public roads without liability coverage
  • California Vehicle Code Section 16020 requires all motorists, including motorcyclists, to carry proof of financial responsibility
  • SB 1107 (effective January 1, 2025) raised minimum liability coverage to $30,000/$60,000/$15,000, the first increase since 1967
  • Riding without insurance can result in fines starting at $100-$200 for a first offense (which grow substantially with penalty assessments), possible license suspension after a reportable accident, and vehicle impoundment in some circumstances
  • California Proposition 213 (Civil Code Section 3333.4) bars uninsured drivers from recovering non-economic (pain and suffering) damages even if they were not at fault in an accident

California Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

California Vehicle Code Section 16056 (amended by SB 1107, effective January 1, 2025) requires motorcyclists to carry minimum liability coverage of: $30,000 per person for bodily injury; $60,000 per accident for bodily injury (two or more people); and $15,000 for property damage. These minimums apply to motorcycles just as they apply to cars and trucks.

In addition to liability coverage, motorcyclists should strongly consider: uninsured motorist coverage (required to be offered under California Insurance Code Section 11580.2, though you may reject it in writing); medical payments coverage (MedPay); and collision and comprehensive coverage if you financed your motorcycle.

Penalties for Riding Without Insurance

A first offense for riding without insurance under California Vehicle Code Section 16028 typically carries a base fine of $100-$200, which grows to roughly $450 or more once mandatory penalty assessments and court fees are added. If you are involved in a reportable accident and cannot show proof of financial responsibility, the DMV can suspend your driving privilege under Vehicle Code Section 16070 following an administrative hearing. Law enforcement can also impound the motorcycle in some circumstances, such as when dispatch confirms through DMV records that the vehicle is uninsured. For subsequent offenses, penalties increase.

What Happens After a Crash If You Were Uninsured

If you are riding without insurance and cause an accident, you are personally liable for all damages out of pocket. If you are injured in an accident caused by another driver but were riding without insurance, California Proposition 213 (Civil Code Section 3333.4) bars you from recovering non-economic damages (pain and suffering, emotional distress), even if the other driver was entirely at fault. You may still recover economic damages such as medical bills and lost wages.

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william Teodoro

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I had a great experience with Accident Network! I was in a terrible motorcycle accident and was not sure how to proceed and I found these guys! They explained and made the whole process a lot easier for me. I was able to focus on recovering fully. Attorney Damoun is amazing!Thank you to attorney Damoun and his wonderful team! They were the best and I will always recommend them.

Contact The Accident Network Law Group

Attorney Damoun Yazdi advises motorcycle accident clients throughout Southern California on insurance coverage, Prop 213 implications, and how to maximize recovery after any crash. His team serves Costa Mesa, Riverside, Rancho Cucamonga, Apple Valley, Victorville, and surrounding areas. Free consultations, contingency fee. Se habla espanol.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The outcome of any case depends on its specific facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contact The Accident Network Law Group for advice about your individual situation.