If you’re a motorcycle owner in Texas, you might be wondering — is motorcycle insurance legally required? The short answer is yes. But the full picture involves understanding what kind of coverage is mandatory, how much it costs, and how you can protect yourself financially in case of an accident.
In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about motorcycle insurance requirements in Texas, including legal minimums, average costs, and tips to save on premiums.
Is Motorcycle Insurance Legally Required in Texas?
Yes, Texas law requires all motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance. This law applies whether you ride a sports bike, cruiser, touring bike, or scooter.
Here’s what the mandatory minimum coverage looks like in Texas:
$30,000 for bodily injury per person
$60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
$25,000 for property damage
This is commonly referred to as 30/60/25 liability coverage, and it only covers damages or injuries you cause to others— not damage to your own bike or personal medical costs.
How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Cost in Texas?
The cost of motorcycle insurance in Texas depends on multiple factors including your age, driving history, bike type, and coverage level.
Liability-Only Coverage
If you only want to meet the legal requirement, liability-only coverage can be quite affordable.
Average Cost: $10 to $20 per month
Annual Cost: $120 to $240 per year
This type of coverage is ideal for older bikes or riders who don’t ride often but still want to comply with the law.
Full Coverage Insurance
If you want protection against theft, fire, vandalism, or collision damage to your own motorcycle, full coverage is a better option.
Average Monthly Cost: $35 to $70
Annual Cost Range: $400 to $850
Full coverage includes:
Liability (required)
Collision (your bike)
Comprehensive (non-collision incidents)
Optional add-ons like roadside assistance or uninsured motorist coverage
What Affects Motorcycle Insurance Rates in Texas?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for motorcycle insurance:
Type of Bike: Sport bikes cost more to insure than cruisers or standard motorcycles.
Your Age and Experience: Younger riders or those with limited experience usually face higher premiums.
Driving Record: A clean record can significantly reduce your rates.
Location: Riders in large cities like Houston, Dallas, or Austin may pay more due to higher accident and theft risks.
Coverage Level: The more coverage you choose, the higher the premium.
Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for bundling, completing a safety course, or installing anti-theft devices.
Tips to Save on Motorcycle Insurance in Texas
If you’re looking to save money while staying compliant with Texas law, consider these tips:
Shop around: Get quotes from multiple providers like Progressive, Geico, Dairyland, and Allstate.
Take a motorcycle safety course: Certified courses often reduce your premium.
Bundle policies: Combine motorcycle insurance with your car or home policy for a discount.
Choose a higher deductible: If you can afford it, this will lower your monthly payments.
Use anti-theft devices: Insurers love security features and may reward you with lower rates.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance?
Riding a motorcycle without insurance in Texas can lead to:
Fines up to $350 for a first offense, and more for repeat violations
License suspension
Motorcycle impoundment
Higher insurance rates in the future
You may also be held personally liable for all costs if you cause an accident while uninsured.
Final Thoughts
So, is motorcycle insurance required in Texas? Absolutely. The state mandates that every rider carry liability coverage at a minimum. However, full coverage is highly recommended if you ride frequently, own a new or valuable bike, or want peace of mind in case of unexpected damage or theft.
With premiums starting as low as $10–15 per month, getting insured is not only smart — it’s affordable too.
If you're riding in Texas, make sure your paperwork is in order before hitting the open road. A little protection today can save you from massive costs tomorrow.