Two-Wheeler Insurance — Complete India Guide
Bike and scooter insurance in India explained - what's mandatory, costs, long-term policies, electric vehicle insurance, and how to never overpay.
Updated May 2026
₹700+
Min. annual cost
5 years
Long-term TP option
NCB 50%
After 5 claim-free years
Riding without valid third-party insurance is a criminal offence. Fine: ₹2,000 and/or 3 months imprisonment. Always carry your insurance document or digital copy on your phone.
New two-wheelers are mandatorily sold with a 5-year third-party policy. Own-damage can be bought separately each year or as a bundled long-term policy.
Electric two-wheelers (Ola S1, Ather, TVS iQube, Bajaj Chetak) are eligible for discounted insurance premiums in many states due to zero-emission status. Ask your insurer for EV-specific rates.
How to Choose Two-Wheeler Insurance
Understand what's legally required
Third-party insurance is mandatory under the MV Act for all bikes, scooters, and mopeds. For new two-wheelers, a 5-year third-party policy is mandatory at purchase.
Decide if you need own-damage cover
Own-damage protects your bike from accidents, theft, fire, and natural disasters. For bikes under 3 years old or high-value bikes (above ₹80,000), comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended.
Set the correct IDV
IDV is the market value of your bike - what you'll receive if it's stolen or totalled. For a 3-year-old 150cc bike, IDV is approximately ₹55,000–₹75,000. Don't undervalue it to save ₹200 on premium.
Consider add-ons
Zero-depreciation is worth it for bikes under 2 years old. Roadside assistance is cheap (₹200–₹300/year) and very useful. Personal accident cover for pillion is important.
Renew on time
A lapsed two-wheeler policy means losing NCB, mandatory fresh inspection of the bike, and being uninsured. Set a reminder 30 days before expiry - renewal takes under 5 minutes online.
Two-Wheeler Insurance Cost 2026
| Third-party only (engine up to 75cc) | ₹538/year | IRDAI regulated |
| Third-party only (75cc–150cc) | ₹714/year | IRDAI regulated |
| Third-party only (150cc–350cc) | ₹1,366/year | IRDAI regulated |
| Third-party only (above 350cc) | ₹2,804/year | IRDAI regulated |
| Comprehensive (100–150cc bike) | ₹2,500–₹5,000 | Depends on IDV |
| Comprehensive (premium bike 500cc+) | ₹12,000–₹40,000 | High-value bikes |
| Electric two-wheeler insurance | ₹1,500–₹8,000 | Based on battery capacity |
| Long-term TP (5 years, new bike) | ₹3,570 (up to 75cc) | One-time at purchase |
Frequently Asked Questions
More Guides & Tools
Information sourced from official government portals - parivahan.gov.in, morth.nic.in. Process details and fees may vary by state. Verify with your local RTO before proceeding.