Georgia Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

The Peach State, Georgia, offers motorcyclists a rich and diverse landscape, with its stunning mountain ranges, bustling cities, and charming small towns.

If you are a motorcycle owner in Georgia, it’s necessary to verify that you’ve met the state’s motorcycle insurance requirements & safety regulations before using your bike.

Keep in mind that the purpose of insurance is to ensure financial responsibility in the event of an accident, damage induction, and/or injuries.

Georgia Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

To be legally compliant with Georgia’s motorcycle insurance requirements, your policy must include the following “25/50/25” coverage limits:

  • $25,000 bodily injury per person
  • $50,000 bodily injury per accident
  • $25,000 property damage liability per accident

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) oversees the state’s motorcycle insurance requirements.

Note: Insurance requirements for the state of Georgia may change in the future. Insurance companies & government institutions will keep motorcyclists updated on coverage requirement changes.

Motorcycles & Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined in GA

In Georgia, motorcycles and other two-wheeled vehicles are legally defined as follows:

  • Motorcycle: A motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, excluding an electric bicycle or a tractor.
  • Moped: A motor-driven cycle with an engine not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters (3.05 cubic inches) which produces no more than 2 brake horsepower and is not capable of speeds greater than 30 miles per hour on level ground.
  • Scooter: A two-wheeled vehicle with a motor displacement of 50 cubic centimeters or more that is not capable of speeds greater than 60 miles per hour.

Note: Definitions are based on the Georgia Code, Title 40 – Motor Vehicles and Traffic, Chapter 1 – General Provisions.

Insurance Requirements for Smaller Vehicles in Georgia

In Georgia, many smaller vehicles require insurance, including:

Motorcycles: All motorcycles, regardless of the number of wheels, must have liability insurance coverage in Georgia.

Mopeds & Scooters: Mopeds and scooters with a motor that displaces 50 cubic centimeters or more are subject to the same insurance requirements as motorcycles in Georgia. However, mopeds with an engine displacement less than 50 cubic centimeters do not require insurance but must be registered with the state.

For specific information about insuring a non-motorcycle vehicle in the state of Georgia – contact your insurance provider.

Basic Motorcycle Rules in GA

Mentioned below are common requirements that must be met if you wish to operate a motorcycle in the state of Georgia.

  • Lane splitting: Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Georgia.
  • Helmets: Georgia law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet while riding, regardless of age. All helmets must meet the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation.
  • Eye protection: All riders in Georgia are required to wear protective eye-wear unless their motorcycle has a windshield.
  • Passengers: A passenger can only ride on a motorcycle if the bike is equipped with a designated passenger seat and footrest.
  • Mirrors & lighting: Motorcycles must be equipped with at least one rear-view mirror and have proper lighting, including brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals.
  • Turn signals: Georgia law requires motorcycles to have functioning turn signals.
  • Headlights: Motorcycles must have at least one working headlight, which must be used during daytime and nighttime hours.
  • Seat & footrest: All motorcycles must have a seat for the rider, as well as a footrest.
  • Endorsement: To legally operate a motorcycle in Georgia, you must have a Class M driver’s license or a Class MP driver’s license.

Additional Insurance for Motorcyclists in GA

Though some motorcyclists may be okay with the minimum coverage amounts in Georgia, others may want additional coverage. Below are some additional coverage options to consider.

  • Collision: Collision coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your motorcycle is damaged or totaled in an accident.
  • Comprehensive: Comprehensive coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if your motorcycle is stolen or damaged by factors such as weather, fire, or vandalism.
  • Roadside Assistance: This form of coverage provides assistance if your motorcycle breaks down while you’re on the road, including services such as towing, fuel delivery, and battery jump-starts.
  • Custom Parts & Equipment: If you customized your bike with unique parts or accessories, this coverage can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement if they are damaged or stolen.
  • Uninsured & Underinsured Motorist: This coverage can help protect you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver without insurance or adequate coverage to pay for damages.
  • Medical Payments: This coverage can help cover medical expenses for you or your passengers in the event of an accident.

Proof of Insurance & Penalties

In Georgia, all motorcyclists (and other motorists), are required to carry proof of insurance while driving.

Proof of insurance should always be available when requested by a law enforcement officer during a traffic stop or after an accident.

Penalties for failing to provide proof of insurance may include:

  • First Offense: Fine of up to $200, suspension of license and registration until you can provide proof of insurance, and potential impoundment of your vehicle.
  • Second Offense: Fine of up to $500, suspension of license and registration for up to 90 days, and potential impoundment of your vehicle.
  • Third & Subsequent Offenses: Fine of up to $1,000, suspension of license and registration for up to 6 months, and potential impoundment of your vehicle.

FAQs: Motorcycle Insurance in Georgia

Documented below are basic questions about motorcycle insurance and motorcycle rules/regulations specific to the state of Georgia.

Is “lane splitting” legal in Georgia?

Lane splitting is illegal (not legal) in Georgia.

Georgia Code § 40-6-312 states: “no person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or between adjacent lines or rows of vehicles.”

Are helmets required for motorcyclists in GA?

In Georgia, helmets are required for all riders and passengers, regardless of age.

Helmets should meet safety standards set by Georgia law.

Do I need an endorsement or license to ride a motorcycle?

Yes, you need a Class M driver’s license or a Class MP permit to legally operate a motorcycle in the state of Georgia.

You can obtain a motorcycle endorsement by passing a written test and either completing a motorcycle training course approved by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) or passing a skills test.

How can you save money on motorcycle insurance in GA?

Comparing plans and prices between different insurance providers can help you save money on your motorcycle insurance.

If you already have a plan, it never hurts to compare it to plans offered by other insurers to determine whether you can save.

You can also take advantage of special discounts (ask insurers about ways you can save) and/or opt for a higher deductible to save money on premiums.

If my motorcycle is in storage for part of the year, do I still need insurance?

Despite the fact that you may not use your motorcycle year-round, you’ll probably still want to keep some insurance on it in storage.

If your motorcycle is damaged, stolen, or subject to a fire – certain types of insurance will provide reimbursement.

How can I reduce my premiums?

Ask for discounts, compare quotes from other insurance providers (to your current plan), do what’s necessary to qualify for discounts, etc.

Most people can find ways to reduce their premiums if they put forth a bit of effort.

Do scooters & mopeds need the same insurance as motorcycles?

In Georgia, mopeds and scooters with a motor that displaces 50 cubic centimeters or more are subject to the same insurance requirements as motorcycles.

That said, mopeds with an engine displacement less than 50 cubic centimeters do not require insurance but must be registered with the state.

Ask an insurance provider for specific insurance requirements if you have a scooter or moped.

What if you drive a motorcycle without insurance?

It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without insurance in the state of Georgia.

Those who operate motorcycles without insurance in GA will be subject to large fines, suspension of license, motorcycle impoundment, and perhaps other legal consequences.

What factors affect the cost of motorcycle insurance?

Variables that impact the price of motorcycle insurance include:

  • Age/sex of user
  • Driving history/record
  • Motorcycle make/model & condition
  • Location (where you live)
  • Specific insurance policy
  • Frequency of operation

Finding motorcycle insurance in Georgia

Finding quality motorcycle insurance in Georgia doesn’t require excessive research or a massive time investment – there are tools to make finding a good plan easy.

This website has a tool that allows you to just enter your Zip Code to get quotes from top insurance companies in your area – enabling you to efficiently find a great insurance policy.

Simply punch in your Zip Code, fill out the necessary forms, and determine which provider gives you the best deal for your money on a motorcycle insurance policy.

Jane Adams

Jane is a freelancer & motorcycle enthusiast with 15+ years experience in the insurance industry. She has worked with motorcyclists of all experience levels to help them find the ideal insurance packages for their needs.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.