Michigan Motorcycle Insurance Requirements: No-Fault Exclusion Explained (2026)

Quick Answer: Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Michigan?

Yes. Michigan law requires all motorcycle operators to carry liability insurance before riding on public roads. There is, however, a critical distinction that every Michigan rider needs to understand: motorcycles are excluded from Michigan's no-fault auto insurance system. This changes how accidents, medical bills, and lawsuits work—completely differently from car insurance in the same state.

---

Michigan Motorcycle Minimum Coverage at a Glance

This is commonly written as 20/40/10. Note that Michigan raised minimum auto insurance limits to 50/100/10 in 2020 under no-fault reform, but motorcycles—which are excluded from the no-fault act—were not subject to the same requirement change.

---

Michigan Motorcycles and the No-Fault Exclusion

This is the most important thing Michigan riders need to understand. Michigan operates under a no-fault auto insurance system—meaning car drivers' own insurance pays medical bills regardless of who caused the accident. Motorcycles are explicitly excluded from this system.

What the Exclusion Means in Practice

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Michigan:

• Your own health insurance pays your medical bills—not a motorcycle PIP policy
• If a car or truck causes the crash, you can pursue their no-fault PIP for your medical expenses
• You retain the full right to sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, lost income, and other damages—without the verbal threshold that applies to car accident cases
• If no car is involved (single-vehicle crash or motorcycle vs. motorcycle), you are responsible for your own medical costs

Optional Medical Coverage for Michigan Riders

Although PIP is not required on motorcycle policies, most insurers offer optional medical payment coverage. Buying this coverage is strongly recommended:

Motorcycle accident injuries cost an average of $30,000–$100,000+ in medical expenses. Optional medical coverage can protect you when a car driver is not at fault or not present.

---

Who Must Carry Insurance in Michigan?

• All operators of registered motorcycles on public roads
• Riders of financed or leased motorcycles (lenders typically require full coverage)
• Out-of-state riders operating in Michigan must meet Michigan's minimum requirements
• Motorcycle dealers operating demo or loaner bikes

What Qualifies as a Motorcycle?

Michigan defines a motorcycle as any motor vehicle having fewer than four wheels upon which the rider sits astride, excluding mopeds (engine displacement under 50cc and limited to 30 mph). Three-wheeled motorcycles and autocycles may be classified differently—verify with the Michigan Secretary of State before registering.

---

Exceptions and Alternatives

Self-insurance: Available only for owners of 25 or more vehicles who receive approval from the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS). Not available for individual riders.

Antique motorcycles: Vehicles older than 26 years can obtain historical plates, but liability insurance is still required to operate on public roads.

Off-road only use: If a motorcycle is never operated on public roads, Michigan registration and insurance may not be required. Operating on any public road—even briefly—triggers the insurance requirement.

---

Penalties for Riding Without Insurance in Michigan

Beyond fines, the financial consequences of an accident while uninsured can be devastating. If you injure a car driver or passenger and their no-fault PIP pays their bills, Michigan law may allow their insurer to seek reimbursement from you directly.

---

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Michigan insurers are required to offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on motorcycle policies—but riders can reject it in writing. Given that roughly 20% of Michigan drivers remain uninsured despite mandatory coverage laws, this is a risky rejection.

What UM covers: Medical bills and damages caused by a driver who carries no insurance and cannot pay.

Annual cost: Typically $50–$150 added to your premium. Low cost, high value for riders who face severe injury risk.

---

Collision and Comprehensive Coverage

Neither collision nor comprehensive is legally required by Michigan. Lenders and leasing companies almost always require both until the bike is paid off.

Michigan has high vehicle theft rates in urban areas like Detroit. Comprehensive coverage is worth considering even if not legally required.

---

How to Get Motorcycle Insurance in Michigan

1. Verify your M endorsement — You need a motorcycle endorsement on your Michigan driver's license before insurers will quote you
2. Choose your liability limits — The minimum 20/40/10 is a starting point; many riders choose higher
3. Add optional medical coverage — Fills the gap left by the no-fault exclusion
4. Compare at least three quotes — Rates vary widely between insurers
5. Ask about discounts — MSF safety course completion, anti-theft devices, multi-policy discounts
6. File proof with Secretary of State — Required at registration

---

Michigan Motorcycle Endorsement (M Class)

All Michigan riders must hold a Class M or Class M designation on their driver's license. To get endorsed:

• Pass the written motorcycle knowledge test at a Secretary of State branch
• Complete the on-cycle skills test, OR complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic RiderCourse
• Riders under 18 must follow Graduated Driver Licensing rules with additional restrictions

Completing an MSF course often qualifies you for a premium discount of 5–15%.

---

FAQ

Does Michigan require PIP for motorcycle insurance?

No. Motorcycles are excluded from Michigan's mandatory no-fault PIP system. You can—and should—purchase optional medical expense coverage on your motorcycle policy to fill this gap.

What happens if a car driver hits me on my motorcycle?

You can file a claim against the car driver's no-fault PIP for medical expenses. You can also sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. Unlike car drivers in Michigan, motorcyclists face no verbal threshold to file a lawsuit.

Are motorcycle insurance rates lower than car insurance in Michigan?

Often yes for basic liability, since motorcycles are smaller and cause less property damage. However, Michigan motorcycle policies should include optional medical coverage, which adds to the cost. Overall expect to pay $300–$900 per year for a complete policy.

Do I need insurance to park my motorcycle in Michigan?

Michigan does not require you to maintain active insurance on a motorcycle during storage periods, but gaps in coverage can affect your rates when you reinstate. Some riders keep minimum coverage year-round to maintain a continuous history.

Can I use out-of-state motorcycle insurance in Michigan?

Temporarily, for visitors. Michigan residents must hold Michigan-compliant motorcycle insurance. Out-of-state policies that don't meet Michigan minimums are not valid for Michigan registration.

What is the MSF course and does it reduce my premium?

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic RiderCourse is a skills and safety training program approved by Michigan. Completing it satisfies the M endorsement road test requirement and typically qualifies for a 5–15% discount from most insurers.

---

Important Disclaimer

This guide provides general information about motorcycle insurance requirements based on publicly available sources. This is not legal advice. Insurance requirements can change, and individual circumstances vary. Always verify current requirements with the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) or the Michigan Secretary of State, and consult with a licensed insurance professional for advice specific to your situation.

Last verified: March 2026
Sources: Michigan Secretary of State, Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS), Michigan Compiled Laws MCL 500.3101