Updated on - 30 Dec 2025
Owning a two-wheeler in India makes getting around easier and more affordable, whether it’s commuting to work, running errands or weekend trips. But while riding can be convenient and fun, accidents, thefts or damage from natural events can happen anytime; and they can be expensive to handle on your own. Having a valid two-wheeler insurance policy protects you from these risks, saves you from unexpected financial stress and ensures you can get back on the road quickly and safely.
Consequences of not getting a two-wheeler insurance
Not having two-wheeler insurance can have major consequences, such as:
- Legal penalties: Under the Motor Vehicles Act (2019), every vehicle is required to have at least third-party insurance. If you are riding without insurance, you might be fined ₹2,000 for the first offence and then ₹4,000 for the second. In some cases, you may also face imprisonment for up to three months or both. This is a legal offence and can be added to your driving record.
- Financial losses: If you run into an accident, you will have to pay for all repairs from your own pocket. If the damage is severe, it can be extremely costly. Even worse, if someone else is injured or their vehicle is damaged, you will be liable for compensation, which can be very expensive.
- No protection against theft or natural calamities: Without two-wheeler insurance, you will not be covered if your bike is stolen, damaged due to fire, floods or other disasters. In cities where theft and natural disasters are common, this can lead to a big financial setback.
- No claim settlement support: Insurance companies also provide assistance in the claim settlement process. If you happen to have an accident, they help you get your bike repaired through authorised garages. Without insurance, you will not have any such support.
- Difficulties during roadside checks: Police and traffic authorities often carry out checks. If you are stopped and found without valid insurance, you may have to pay a fine on the spot or have your vehicle seized.
Tips to avoid getting fined
Avoiding fines for not having two-wheeler insurance is simple if you stay alert and follow the rules. Here are a few useful tips:
- Always buy or renew your insurance on time: It is important to renew your insurance before it expires. Most insurers send reminders, but it is your responsibility to keep track of the dates. Setting a reminder on your preferred device or calendar helps.
- Opt for long-term insurance: Some insurance providers offer long-term two-wheeler insurance that lasts up to three or five years. This means you do not have to worry about yearly renewals and the risk of missing deadlines.
- Keep a digital copy of your insurance: Always carry a downloadable copy of your insurance on your phone. You can also store it in the DigiLocker app, which is accepted by the traffic police.
- Choose a comprehensive insurance plan: Comprehensive insurance offers wider coverage, including own damage and theft protection. It is a better choice than only having basic third-party insurance.
- Check for No-Claim Bonus (NCB): If you renew your insurance regularly and do not make any claims, you get a no-claim bonus. This reduces your premium amount and encourages safe driving habits.
Legal requirements for bike owners
Every bike owner in India is required to have valid two-wheeler insurance under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (and its 2019 amendment). At a minimum, a third-party insurance policy is mandatory, covering costs related to injury, death or property damage caused to others in an accident involving your bike.
Riders must also carry key documents at all times, including a driving licence, registration certificate and pollution under control (PUC) certificate. Failing to present these during a check can result in fines or temporary suspension of your licence.
While not legally required, a comprehensive insurance policy provides broader protection. It covers damage to your own vehicle and losses from natural or man-made events, helping reduce financial stress after an accident or repair.
Benefits of buying two-wheeler insurance
Insurance acts as a safety net and provides you with peace of mind. Here are the main benefits of buying a two-wheeler insurance:
- Mandatory coverage: As per the Supreme Court’s directive, all new two-wheelers must have a five-year third-party insurance policy. Riding without valid insurance can lead to heavy penalties.
- Protection against natural calamities: Having a two-wheeler insurance financially covers you if you face loss or damage caused by an earthquake or flood.
- Protection against man-made incidents: This means that your insurance will cover robbery and damage from road accidents.
- Legal liabilities: Mandatory third-party insurance takes care of legal and financial liabilities in case your vehicle causes injury, death or property damage to others.
- No Claim Bonus (NCB): Maintaining a claim-free record makes you eligible for discounts during renewal, reducing your future premiums.
- Cashless claim facility: You can get your bike repaired at a network garage without paying the amount upfront, as the insurer settles bills directly with the service centre.
How to choose the right two-wheeler insurance policy
Selecting the right two-wheeler insurance policy starts with understanding your coverage needs. A third-party policy is mandatory by law, but opting for a comprehensive plan offers wider protection. It covers damages to your own vehicle along with third-party liabilities, making it a more practical choice for most riders.
Before finalising, compare plans from different insurers. Look at what’s included and check the claim settlement ratio. A higher ratio indicates better reliability in case of claims.
Always consider factors like add-on covers and network garages. Add-ons such as zero depreciation or roadside assistance can make a major difference in emergencies, especially if your two-wheeler is new or an expensive model. Choosing an insurer with a wide-ranging network of cashless garages can help you get quick, hassle-free repairs without paying out of pocket.
How to renew or buy two-wheeler insurance online
Buying a two-wheeler bike insurance online is quick and convenient. You can compare different policies, understand the inclusions and complete your purchase in just a few minutes without any paperwork.
Start by visiting a trusted insurer’s website and selecting the type of coverage you need. Enter your vehicle details, such as registration number, make and model, to get an instant premium quote. Review the features and claim process before finalising. Once you’re satisfied, pay securely online to receive your policy instantly in your email inbox.
Renewing your policy also requires a few simple steps, these are:
- Visit the insurer’s official website and open the bike insurance renewal section.
- Enter your vehicle registration number and existing policy details.
- Review your coverage and add or remove any optional add-ons.
- Make the payment online by using your preferred mode.
- Your renewed policy will then be sent to your registered email.
If your two-wheeler insurance has expired, you can still renew it online by providing your old policy number and registration details. The insurer may inspect your bike before reissuing coverage due to the lapse period.
Conclusion
Owning a two-wheeler comes with freedom and convenience, but unexpected accidents, theft or damage can disrupt your life and finances. A comprehensive two wheeler insurance not only keeps you legally compliant but also provides peace of mind, protecting you from financial stress and helping you get back on the road quickly.
To ensure you choose the coverage that fits your needs and situation, get tailored two-wheeler insurance advice by filling out the form on this page.
FAQs
1. Does long-term two-wheeler insurance offer better value than annual renewal?
Long-term policies, typically for three or five years, can help avoid yearly renewals and may protect against premium hikes during the policy period. The actual value depends on the insurer and your specific plan.
2. How does the Insured Declared Value (IDV) affect claim settlements?
The IDV represents the current market value of your bike and determines the maximum claim amount in case of total loss or theft. Choosing the right IDV is important; too high can increase your premium, while too low may reduce your claim amount.
3. Can digital policy documents replace physical copies while riding?
Digital copies of two-wheeler insurance and registration certificates, stored on platforms like DigiLocker or mParivahan, are legally valid. It is important to ensure they are easily accessible on your phone while travelling.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.