Massachusetts motorcycle insurance
There’s so much to explore in Massachusetts. As you plan your bike tour, remember to take out a motorcycle insurance policy and get to know the state’s riding laws.
What’s required of all motorcycle riders in Massachusetts?
You must have a valid Class M motorcycle license to legally operate your bike. Before receiving your license, you need to apply for a learner’s permit. To get a license or permit, you need to:
Be at least 16 years old for a permit and 16 1/2 for a license
Provide written parental consent if you’re younger than 18
Pass vision, written knowledge, basic rider course, and road tests from the Massachusetts Rider Education Program (MREP) or other Motorcycle Safety Foundation-approved organization.
Once you’re on the road, follow these motorcycle laws:
Helmets: Both drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets.
Face and eye protection: You’re required to wear eyeglasses, goggles, or a protective face shield unless your motorcycle has a windshield.
Mufflers: Your motorcycle needs a muffler that adheres to established noise limits.
Headlights: Headlights are required 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.
Lane splitting: It’s illegal to share lanes or weave in and out of traffic. You’re entitled to the full width of a lane while riding your motorcycle.
Headphones: It’s illegal to wear headphones or other wired or wireless devices in both ears when driving.
What are the motorcycle insurance requirements in Massachusetts?
Motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Massachusetts. You must show proof of insurance before registering your bike with the Registry of Motor Vehicles. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires that insurance companies provide the following minimum motorcycle insurance coverage limits:
$20,000 for bodily injury liability for one person
$40,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
$5,000 for property damage liability per accident
$8,000 for basic personal injury protection (PIP)
Bodily injury caused by an uninsured motorist:
$20,000 per person
$40,000 per accident
Looking to insure your bike?
Learn about motorcycle insurance coverages, costs, and considerations today.
Are optional motorcycle insurance coverages available in Massachusetts?
Yes. While the required liability coverages can help compensate others if you’re involved in an accident, they don’t apply to damages, injuries, or other expenses you incur. To help protect you in these scenarios, we offer a range of optional coverages, including:
Medical payments
Medical payments coverage can help pay for your own medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident—even if you’re at fault.
Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage
While you’re required to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage under Massachusetts state law, the same doesn’t apply to underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. But adding this coverage to your policy can help with your medical costs if you’re involved in an accident and the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t sufficient to cover you.
Collision coverage
Colliding with another motorcycle, motor vehicle, or object can leave your bike in rough shape. This coverage can help pay for repairs or replacement costs following an incident like this.
Comprehensive coverage
Your bike can also be damaged in non-collision incidents like fires, earthquakes, and hailstorms. It could also be stolen or vandalized. In such instances, your comprehensive insurance can help pay for the damages or total costs of your motorcycle.
Roadside assistance
If you experience a flat tire, dead battery, or other mid-ride issue, roadside assistance can make the difference between a quick—and covered—tow to a body shop versus an hours-long wait on the shoulder.
Does your policy still make sense for you?
Reviewing your motorcycle insurance policy regularly can help you save money.
Get a motorcycle insurance quote with Dairyland
Insurance quotes are quick and free. You’ll just need to:
Have your bike’s year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) on hand.
Answer some additional questions about your bike (e.g. customizations, where it’s kept, whether you’ve taken a rider safety course, etc.).
Select the coverages you want.
Massachusetts motorcycle insurance discounts
To help you find additional value on your already affordable motorcycle insurance, we offer a range of money-saving discounts. Here are several we offer in Massachusetts—you might qualify for more than you think:
Operator safety course
Rider group
Multi-cycle
Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) membership
Residence insurance
Loyalty
Transfer
Sites to see in Massachusetts
Exploring Massachusetts by motorcycle is the best way to discover the hidden gems of this historic state. The Bay State has a network of byways rich with historical remnants, picturesque little towns, and scenic views. You can start with:
Old King’s Highway
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll enjoy the serpentine country roads of the Old King’s Highway (Route 6A). Soak in the picturesque views of Cape Cod’s historical monuments, old Victorian houses, and small towns along the way.
Mohawk Trail
One of New England’s most scenic drives, the Mohawk Trail follows US Route 2 on a winding path through western Massachusetts. In addition to the historical attractions along this former Native American Trade route, you’ll enjoy riding the hairpin turn as you climb Hoosac Mountain.
Quabbin Reservoir Loop
If you’re looking for a short, relaxing day trip ride, check out the Quabbin Reservoir Loop. As you head to the southern tip of the reservoir, you’ll enjoy lush forests, farmlands, and lakeside views. Be sure to stop at Windsor Dam, Quabbin Tower, and Enfield Lookout.
Get an Massachusetts motorcycle insurance quote
Securing a motorcycle insurance policy not only helps you comply with state laws—it also helps protect you, your bike, and other motorists. Get a free quote by entering your information below or calling 866-324-7952.
