Missouri Motorcycle Insurance Requirements & Laws

Riding a motorcycle here in Missouri can be a thrilling experience, but before you hit the open road, you should understand our state’s motorcycle insurance requirements and laws. Whether you’re a brand new rider or a seasoned motorcyclist, knowing the rules helps you stay legal and protected. Today, we’ll break down everything you need to know about motorcycle insurance in Missouri.

Do you have to have motorcycle insurance in Missouri?

Yes. If you own and operate a motorcycle in Missouri, you must carry motorcycle insurance. Just like with cars and trucks, state law requires all motor vehicle owners to have liability insurance to cover any damages and injuries if they’re found to be at fault in a motorcycle accident.

The minimum required coverage here in Missouri is:

• $25,000 for bodily injury person
• $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 in property liability per accident

Now, these are the state-mandated minimums, but it’s important to keep in mind that motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries and extensive damage. Many riders will choose to carry higher coverage limits or even additional coverage, such as:

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which protects you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have any insurance or doesn’t have enough to cover your damages.
• Collision coverage, which helps pay for damage to your motorcycle, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
• Comprehensive coverage, which pays for theft, vandalism, and damage caused by things like fire or severe weather.
• Medical payments coverage (MedPay), which helps cover your medical bills, regardless of fault.

Without motorcycle insurance, you might face significant fines, license suspension, and financial liability if you’re involved in an accident.

What happens if I ride without insurance?

If you’re caught out on your motorcycle without the required Missouri motorcycle insurance, you could face things like fines and penalties, points on your driving record, suspension of your license and registration, and higher insurance rates in the future. Always carry proof of insurance when you ride.

Do you need a motorcycle license in Missouri?

Yes. You must have a Class M motorcycle license or a motorcycle endorsement on your Missouri driver’s license to legally operate a motorcycle.

You have a few options to get your motorcycle license in Missouri, depending on your age and experience.

• Riders under age 18. You must be at least 15 ½ years old to apply for a motorcycle instruction permit. If you’re under 16, you must complete an approved Motorcycle Rider Training Course (MRTC). Your permit will have restrictions, like daylight riding only and no passengers. After you gain experience and meet the requirements, you can take the test to get your full Class M license.
• Riders age 18 and older. You can apply for a motorcycle instruction permit by passing a written test and vision screening. After practicing, you must pass the motorcycle skills test to earn your Class M license. Taking an MRTC may allow you to skip the skills test.
• Out-of-state transfers. If you have a motorcycle endorsement from another state, Missouri will typically honor it when you transfer your driver’s license.

What are Missouri’s motorcycle helmet laws?

Missouri has partial helmet laws, which means some riders are required to wear helmets while others aren’t. Riders and passengers under the age of 26 must wear a DOT-approved helmet. Riders aged 26 and older can legally ride without a helmet if they have health insurance that provides coverage for motorcycle-related injuries.

Even though helmets aren’t required for all riders, we strongly recommend wearing them. Studies show that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of fatal head injuries by 37% and lower the chances of serious brain injuries.

What are some additional Missouri motorcycle laws?

In addition to insurance, licensing, and helmets, our state has some other important motorcycle laws you should know.

Lane splitting

Lane splitting is riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. It’s not explicitly legal or illegal in Missouri. However, it’s generally considered unsafe and discouraged. If a police officer deems your behavior reckless, you could get a ticket.

Lane sharing

Missouri does allow two motorcyclists to ride side-by-side in a single lane, but motorcyclists cannot share a lane with a car or truck.

Equipment requirements

Your motorcycle must be equipped with the following: a working headlight, taillights and brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, a horn, and properly functioning brakes. If your bike doesn’t meet these requirements, you could be cited for violations.

Passenger rules

Motorcycles must have a designated passenger seat and footrests to carry a passenger. Passengers under the age of 26 must wear a helmet. Some insurance policies may exclude passenger injuries, so check your coverage if you frequently ride with passengers.

Noise regulations

Missouri law requires motorcycles to have a proper and working muffler. Excessively loud exhaust systems are against the law, and modifying your bike to make it louder could result in fines.

What is the cost of Missouri motorcycle insurance?

The cost of motorcycle insurance in Missouri depends on a variety of factors, including:

• Your age and riding experience
• Your driving record
• The type of motorcycle you own
• Where you live in Missouri
• The coverage options you choose

On average, basic liability insurance costs around $100 to $500 per year, but full coverage policies can be $500 to $1,500 annually. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies can help you find the best rate.

How can I stay safe on Missouri’s roads?

Missouri has beautiful highways and scenic back roads that are perfect for riding, but safety should always be your priority. Here are a few tips to protect yourself and avoid accidents:

• Wear a helmet and protective gear, even if not required by law.
• Take a motorcycle safety course to improve your riding skills.
• Obey speed limits and traffic laws.
• Stay visible – wear bright colors and use your lights.
• Watch for distracted drivers – motorcycles are harder to see than cars.
• Avoid riding in poor weather conditions if possible.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Missouri, you don’t have to face the legal and insurance challenges alone. The experienced team at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys is here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on the road to recovery. Please call our offices or submit our contact form to schedule your no-obligation consultation today. We are available at our main office in Kansas City, MO. You may also schedule an appointment at our other convenient office locations in Lee’s Summit, Parkville, and St. Joseph (MO), Olathe, Kansas City, and Overland Park (KS).