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All about motorcycle insurance in Alberta
Matt Hands, VP, Insurance and MoneySense
Like other types of auto insurance, motorcycle insurance is there to protect you financially from the various risks of operating a vehicle. In Alberta, there are a few mandatory coverages you'll need – which are the same mandatory coverages you could find on a Alberta car insurance policy. Plus, you'll still also have the option to customize your policy further for added peace of mind.
Here, we cover everything there is to know about motorcycle insurance in Alberta – understanding all the ins and outs will help you make the right decisions when shopping for coverage. When you're ready, be sure to connect with one of our licensed brokers to compare all your options and secure your personalized policy.
Do you need motorcycle insurance in Alberta?
As mentioned above, you'll need motorcycle insurance to ride your bike in Alberta. Similarly to car insurance, motorcycle insurance follows the vehicle, not the rider – so you're essentially insuring the bike itself when you purchase the policy. In most cases, you'll need to show proof of coverage before you can even register your bike.
It's important to note, however, that some motorcycle insurance companies in Alberta won't provide coverage for new riders (or riders who aren't fully licensed). As a novice, you may want to hold off before purchasing your own bike – or you may need to shop around for an insurer that meets your needs.
Did you know?
While motorcycle season may only last for a few months in Alberta, it's a good idea to keep your coverage active for the entire year. Insurers are well aware of the short time frame for riding season, and therefore, the limited usage of your bike during the off-season is already factored into your premium.
In fact, your insurance company may rate your motorcycle seasonally, meaning that your entire annual premium will be charged between the months of March and October. This doesn't mean you'll only be paying the insurance bill during this time – most policyholders still make equal premiums for twelve months out of convenience. Instead, it means that you'll be liable for a specific amount, even if you cancel your coverage early. The table below outlines how a motorcycle insurance provider can charge you throughout the year.
In this case, if you were to cancel your policy in October, you'll essentially still owe your insurer the rest of your annual premium as you were charged the full amount between the months of March and October. And if you were to cancel the coverage in September, you would need to pay the rest of your total premium right away, with the exception of a 5% reduction.
It's also important to note that cancellations can have other implications too. Gaps in coverage can impact your insurance history, making it more difficult for you to obtain coverage again once the new season arrives. And let's not forget that your bike could still be stolen – or face any type of loss or damage – while it's parked away.
Mandatory types of motorcycle insurance in Alberta
In Alberta, a standard motorcycle insurance plan comes with four different types of coverages – here, we cover the basics of each one, so you can better understand the ins and outs of your policy.
Third-party liability
Accident benefits
Direct compensation for property damage
Optional types of motorcycle insurance in Alberta
Aside from the mandatory coverages, you can also add optional coverages to your Alberta motorcycle insurance policy, providing you with additional peace of mind.
Collision
Comprehensive
Specified perils
All perils
Endorsements (Standard Endorsement Forms)
Popular Alberta motorcycle insurance policy add-ons
Some insurers also offer more unique policy add-ons to meet the specific needs of certain riders. While this will differ from provider to provider, here are a few popular options you can ask your broker about when shopping for your Alberta motorcycle insurance.
Emergency roadside assistance
In the event of a roadside bike emergency, this can help cover related expenses, such as gas and jumps.
Accessories coverage
If you have custom parts that aren't covered on a standard policy, having accessories coverage can bridge the gap.
Personal effects coverage
This provides coverage for the loss and damage of your personal items, such as helmets and saddlebags.
Find your best option for Alberta motorcycle insurance today.
Looking to insure your bike for an affordable rate? We can help – connect with one of our licensed broker to compare personalized motorcycle insurance quotes today.
How much is motorcycle insurance in Alberta?
According to the Market Trends Report from the Alberta Automobile Insurance Rate Board, the average cost of motorcycle insurance remained steady in 2022 at about $390. Keep in mind that the cost can vary greatly from rider to rider – to find out the exact number you'll be paying, be sure to connect with one of our licensed brokers today.
Factors that impact your Alberta motorcycle insurance quotes
Here, we cover some of the most important factors that contribute to the cost of your motorcycle insurance. Again, insurers like to see low-risk policyholders – so the more risk you bring (and the more coverage you want), the higher your rate will be.
Age
Young riders tend to face the highest rates as statistically, they're more likely to get into an accident.
Gender
Males tend to face higher premiums than females. Again, they're statistically more likely to get into an accident.
Location
Motorists in busy cities and areas of high crime will see more expensive rates when compared to those from rural places.
Bike model
Certain bike models will be much more expensive to insure than others – this includes sports bikes and ones with a higher cc.
License class
Fully-licensed motorists (full Class 6) will get the most affordable rates – insurers see this as a sign of less risk.
Driving record
A clean record goes a long way when it comes to your motorycle insurance rate. At-fault accidents can quickly hike up your rate.
Training & experience
Having accredited bike training can help lower your rate substantially. And the more experience you bring, the cheaper your rate will be.
Riding behaviour
If you use your bike to commute to work daily, expect to pay higher rates than an ad-hoc rider who only operates a few times each season.
Coverages & discounts
The more coverage you have, the more expensive your motorcycle insurance will be – but don't forget to ask about any discounts.
How to get the cheapest motorcycle insurance in Alberta
While insurance companies are the ones to quote you, there are still many steps you can take to ensure you're getting the best rate possible. Here, we cover eight different tips for affordable motorcycle insurance in Alberta.
Shop the market
You won't know which insurer offers the most affordable rate until you take a look at all of them. Connect with our of our licensed to start the comparison process today.
Take a riding course
Graduating from an accredited motorcycle training program can help lower your rate substantially. Insurers like to see low-risk, and this is one way to show it.
Install anti-theft technology
It's no surprise that motorcycles are prone to theft. Taking measures to prevent this with technological advancements can help you lower your insurance rate.
Get fully-licensed
Getting your full license can also help lower your rate substantially. Again, with a full license, it can show insurers you bring less risk as a policyholder.
Opt for a bundle
Almost all motorcycle insurance companies offer other types of coverage – such as auto and home insurance. By bundling multiple products, you'll be eligible for a discount.
Get a group rate
Be sure to ask about group rates. Insurers often offer discounts to those that are part of certain motorcycle clubs or professional groups (e.g. unions, alumni).
Keep a clean record
The cheapest rates will go to those who have a clean driving histories. An at-fault accident on record can hike up your motorcycle insurance rate for a while.
Choose the right bike
Certain bikes will be much more expensive to insure than others (e.g. sports bikes). Do your research ahead of time to make sure you're comfortable with your motorcycle's insurance implications.
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How to get a motorcycle license in Alberta
To operate a motorcycle in Alberta, you'll need a Class 6 license (this license also lets you drive all other Class 5 motor vehicles as a learner). To become eligible, you'll first need to be at least 16 years old, and you'll need to hold a Class 7 learner's license for at least a year.
If you have a Class 5 or Class 7 license, you'll need need to take a knowledge and road test for your Class 6. If you don't have one of these licenses, you'll need complete the requirements of a Class 7, take a knowledge and road test for your Class 6, and then go through the Graduated Driver's License Program in order to obtain your full Class 6 license.
Pass the knowledge test
Visit one of Alberta's registry agents and take the Class 6 knowledge test. You'll need to bring your existing driver's license for this – either a Class 5 or Class 7.
Pass the road test
The next step is to schedule your Class 6 road test at a registry agent or online. You'll need to bring a bike of your own, plus bring a phone with earbuds to communicate with the tester.
Buy your license card
Once you pass both tests, it's time to purchase your license card. A temporary license will be granted while you wait for your permanent one to come in – it'll be valid for 30 days.
Upgrade to your full Class 6
For a full Class 6, you'll need to be at least 18 years old. You'll need to complete 24 months of probationary training (which may be reduced if you completed an approved training program) while having no suspensions and demerits within the last 12 months.