How Much Is Moped Insurance for a 16 Year Old in the UK?

How much is moped insurance for a 16-year-old in the UK and what does it cover?

This article will guide you through the most important considerations to take when purchasing moped insurance for 16-year-olds in the UK as well as some tips on how to choose the best coverage for young riders. 

What Kind of Motorbike Can a 16-Year-Old Drive?

16-year-olds in the UK can only ride a motorbike with a speed range between 25 and 45 km/h (15.5 to 28 mph), more precisely a 50cc. This makes smaller two-wheelers like mopeds an increasingly popular choice among UK teens. 

What are the benefits of riding a moped?

A moped can only run up to 45 km/h, but it does allow you to go where you want on your own, thus giving a sense of freedom and independence for first-time motorists. 

Mopeds and scooters are also very frugal and much cheaper to maintain than cars. Motorbike tax comes out to just £20 a year, while the annual flat rate for cars is £155 on top of other expenses. 

Finally, thanks to their small engine and lower emissions, mopeds are safer for the environment than bigger vehicles. 

How do you qualify to ride a moped?

These are the absolutely mandatory requirements to meet before riding a moped legally: 

• Get a provisional driving license 
• Complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) 
• Take out 50cc moped insurance
• Display L-plates
• Register the vehicle with the DVLA and pay road tax 

Do You Need Insurance for a Moped in the UK?

Yes. As mentioned above, riders need to purchase 50cc moped insurance before taking the vehicle on the road. More specifically, they need to have at least a third-party insurance policy. 

What Does Moped Insurance Cover?

Your moped insurance cover depends on the type of policy you decide on and the extras you will add to it. Moped insurance for a 16-year-old works exactly the same as for most vehicles, so you are able to choose from one of the following policies:

• Third-party only is the most basic type of insurance that only covers damages caused in an accident to someone’s vehicle. In the event of an accident, it does not provide protection for your moped. 
• Third-party, fire and theft adds cover in case your moped is stolen or damaged by fire. It is a little more expensive, but definitely worth it as your moped is past saving in both of these situations. 
• Fully comprehensive scooter and moped insurance is the most extensive and usually the least expensive type of coverage. This policy covers all the above, as well as damages to your vehicle in case of an accident, regardless of who’s at fault. You could also opt for add-ons and get covered for possible injuries to your person. 

What Policy Features Can I Get With Moped Insurance?

Insurers offer certain features, some being included as standard, while others cost extra. Since extra policy features are likely to increase your premiums, you should carefully pick and choose which ones you need the most. 

Typically, insurance providers will offer these as add-ons:

• Cover for helmet and leathers if lost, damaged or stolen
• Breakdown cover (if your moped breaks down)
• Cover for more than one motorbike
• Cover for riding with a sidecar 
• Cover for riding your moped abroad
• Personal liability cover (if the rider is responsible for an accident)
• Personal accident cover (if you are injured or killed on the road)
• Cover for lost keys
• If your moped is topped with the wrong fuel

50cc Moped Insurance Cost for a 16 Year Old in the UK

The average moped insurance cost ranges from £256 to £279. 

However, the actual moped insurance cost in the UK is determined by many factors, including:

• Your age: Inexperienced drivers tend to pay higher premiums.
• Your policy: According to auto insurance statistics and facts, a comprehensive policy is the best and least expensive option. 
• Modifications to your moped: If repairs and more spare parts are required, insurers could increase your premium.
• Payment frequency: Paying annually is always a cheaper option. 
• Your excess: The money you originally contribute to the cost of the claim when you make one but before you are paid out is known as your excess payment. If you volunteer to contribute a higher excess fee, insurers might reward you with a lower insurance premium.

How Can a 16-Year Old Get Lower Moped Insurance Premiums?

Insurance providers might offer specially designed moped insurance policies for young adults. These policies, though, tend to be costlier than standard coverage since young motorists are more prone to road accidents. In fact, there were 99 young fatalities among car drivers in 2019 alone. With that in mind, insurance providers are less likely to offer lower premiums to 16-year-old motorists. 

Still, there are some things you can do to reduce the ​​moped insurance cost. 

• Use anti-theft equipment: Using ground anchor bolts, bike locks, alarms and trackers reduces the chances of your moped getting stolen and thus lowers premiums. 
• Advanced training: You can get a discount from an insurer if you take part in further moped or scooter training.
• Park your moped in a safe area: if you park your moped in a garage or somewhere safe, your insurance will be lower, as there’s less  risk of damages or theft. 
• Limit your mileage: Insurers offer discounts to riders that cover less than 3,000 miles a year. The more miles you cover, the higher your insurance premium will be.
• Build a no claim bonus (NCB): As soon as you get a year without claims, your insurance premium should reduce. 

Still, the best way to save money on 50cc moped insurance for 16-year-old motorists is to compare quotes. Either log on to one of the many sites that will find cheap moped insurance for you or scour the internet for the best deals possible. 

Bottom Line

Before you take your moped on the road, you need to cover all legal requirements, including taking out moped and scooter insurance. 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you plan your budget to include coverage for young riders as well as given you some pointers on how to reduce the average 50cc moped insurance cost in the UK.