If you have been thinking about getting a motorcycle and are finally ready to pull the plug, you may have some questions. Motorcycles are a great way to get around, and they can be a lot of fun too! Just as with a car, you can’t legally ride a motorcycle without a motorcycle permit. But can you buy a bike without it?
No law requires you to prove you have a valid motorcycle license before you buy one. You can buy as many bikes as you’d like without one if you don’t plan to drive your motorcycle home.
At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we want all of our fellow bikers to stay safe – and to stay legal. While you can buy a motorcycle without a license, be sure to have a motorcycle license before you get out on the road.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License in Florida?
In Florida, you must have a Class E license with a motorcycle endorsement to operate a motorcycle. If your license has expired for more than six months, you will need to take the written and driving tests again to get re-licensed.
Buying a Motorcycle Without a License
Just because you can’t legally ride a motorcycle without a license doesn’t mean you can’t buy one. Though motorcycle licenses are not required to purchase a motorcycle from a dealership or private seller, there are still barriers you have to cross to buy one.
You’ll need funds to make the purchase and at least a learner’s permit to verify your identity. You’ll also need to make plans for transporting the motorcycle. Some dealerships have delivery services, you can rent a motorcycle carrier, or you could always have someone else pick up the bike for you and keep it in their garage until you’re ready to ride.
Dealers and private sellers care about getting the money for the motorcycle, and what is legally required to drive isn’t much of an issue.
Getting a Loan From the Bank
Banks can be very strict as far as loans are concerned. To get any loan, you must be at least 18 years old and have a driver’s license containing your photo ID and the information you will need to fill out the paperwork. But banks don’t require you to have a motorcycle license to get a loan to buy a motorcycle.
Keep in mind that some banks do require that you have motorcycle insurance to complete the transaction of buying a motorcycle.
Should I Wait Until I Get My License to Buy a Motorcycle?
If you’re dead set on buying a motorcycle, there’s no reason to wait until you have your license. Just be aware that you won’t be able to ride it until you get your license, and you’ll need to store it somewhere safe.
The best way to buy a motorcycle is to wait until you have your license. You can take it for a test ride before you buy it, and you won’t have to worry about storing it safely.
Of course, the choice is up to you. Just be aware of the risks involved in buying a motorcycle without a license.
Do I Need a License to Register My Motorcycle?
You do not need a motorcycle license to register a motorcycle. The registration process is the same as registering a car – you need the title, proof of insurance, and a registration fee.
Buying Motorcycle Insurance in Florida
Motorcycle insurance isn’t required in Florida, but we strongly recommend purchasing an insurance policy. If you get into an accident, you will be financially responsible for the damages, even if you don’t have insurance. You’ll also want coverage if you plan to travel outside of Florida since other states require insurance.
How to Buy Insurance for a Motorcycle
To get insurance for your motorcycle, you’ll need to contact an insurance company or agent and give them your driver’s license number and vehicle identification number (VIN.) Insurance companies will also consider the following when determining your motorcycle insurance rates: your age, driving record, the type of motorcycle you ride, where you live, and how much coverage you want.
Once you have all this information, you can start shopping around for motorcycle insurance in Florida. Be sure to compare rates and coverage options from a few different companies before deciding. If you don’t have your motorcycle or regular driver’s license yet, you may need to list someone else as the primary driver until you get your permit. And, if you have any questions, be sure to ask your insurance agent or insurance representative for help.
Motorcycle Accidents in Florida
Now that you know what you need to finance a motorcycle, it’s time to get out on the road once you get your license! But first, it’s important to be aware that motorcycle accidents happen quite frequently in Florida.
In 2021, over 500 motorcycle accident fatalities occurred throughout Florida, so it’s important to stay safe! Be sure to follow all traffic laws and don’t drive while under the influence. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact one of our lawyers at The Fran Haasch Law Group.
What The Fran Haasch Law Group Can Do For You
At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we focus on helping you and your family recover. We pursue personal injury lawsuits, and wrongful death claims to obtain full compensation for damages such as pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost earnings, property damage, and more.
With over 20 years of experience, we draw on constant legal and medical research to help clients recover after being injured in auto accidents in Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas. Founding personal injury attorney, Fran Haasch, is a lifetime member of the Multimillion Dollar Advocates Forum and a member of the American Association for Justice, the Florida Justice Association, and the Tampa Bay Trial Lawyers Association.
Our attorneys are skilled and experienced litigators. We are not afraid to take your lawsuit to trial if necessary. No matter how complicated your case, our firm is here to help you navigate the legal process from start to finish.
At The Fran Haasch Law Group, we support the Tampa Bay biker community personally and professionally. We understand personal injury law for motorcyclists and have committed to protecting motorcycle rider rights.
Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
We have handled numerous motorcycle accident claims in Clearwater, Palm Harbor, and Tampa and know insurance companies’ strategies to avoid rewarding full compensation.
If you feel you have been the victim of a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own. Our attorneys are prepared to help you navigate the legal process and work toward securing the maximum compensation you are owed. Call (727) 637-0100 or contact us online to get started on receiving maximum compensation for your personal injury case.
