If you’re simply traveling between states or taking a cross-country road trip, your motorcycle license will be valid if you ever need to show it to a police officer. If you’re moving to a different state, however, the process can be a bit more complicated. 
When moving, you will need to transfer your motorcycle license to the new state. Once you have proof of residency, you must go to the local DMV in order to transfer your motorcycle license. Make sure to have your:
- Existing motorcycle license or endorsement
- A course completion card (or other proof of passing a motorcycle safety course)
There may be more requirements depending on your location, so check with your DMV before visiting to make sure you have the proper paperwork.
DMVs may also require you to go through certain processes, such as passing a vision test and a knowledge test. You will also be expected to pay applicable motorcycle license fees.
Do You Need a New Motorcycle License When Moving States?
One of the only reasons you would need to apply for a new motorcycle license is if your previous endorsement expired. You will be expected to pass the new state’s safety course and knowledge test to qualify for a new motorcycle license. Keep in mind that motorcycle licenses and drivers’ licenses are not interchangeable. You can’t transfer one to another.
Does Motorcycle Insurance Transfer Between States?
The process for changing your insurance is much the same as changing your motorcycle license. While traveling through states, your insurance will adjust to each state’s requirements to cover you. When permanently moving, however, you will need to purchase a new insurance policy. If you don’t notify your insurance agency of the move or change your policy, the insurance agency may cancel your policy without any warning.
Before starting over the search for motorcycle insurance, check with your original insurance agency. Many agencies have multiple locations, and they may serve your new area, as well. If they don’t, the insurance agency should be able to point you in the right direction towards agencies that do serve your location. The state laws on when to switch insurance vary, but it’s recommended that you do so as soon as possible to avoid being left without coverage.
Motorcycle Insurance in a New State
As stated above, each state has different insurance requirements for motorcycles. 47 states require motorcycle insurance. Those that do not include Florida, Montana and Washington. Most states (not all) require:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability
Liability insurance provides compensation if you cause bodily injury or property damage to someone else while operating the insured motorcycle. This is in part to protect other drivers and passengers by ensuring that you can pay for any damages you cause.
The cost of your motorcycle insurance is likely to change from one state to another. Along with a difference in liability limits, certain states have higher insurance premiums. The same influences on your motorcycle insurance remains, however. This includes your:
- Location (per state, county and even city)
Moving can be a way of turning over a new leaf. When shopping for a new motorcycle insurance policy, look for ways you can save in your new state. Ask about applicable discounts (Mature Driver Discounts, bundling home and auto, Multiple Bikes Discounts, etc.) and build your credit score by paying bills in a timely manner.