Does USAA Insure Motorcycles?
USAA is a trusted name in financial services for military members and their families. But when it comes to motorcycles, there’s a common point of confusion: Does USAA actually insure motorcycles, or does it just pass the job to someone else?
🔑 Key Takeaways: USAA Motorcycle Insurance
✔️ Does USAA insure motorcycles directly?
Only for legacy policyholders—new applicants are routed through Progressive.
✔️ Who is eligible for USAA motorcycle coverage?
Military members, veterans, and qualifying family members.
✔️ Are there perks for getting motorcycle insurance through USAA?
Yes—5% discount, free roadside assistance, and policy bundling options.
✔️ Can you add motorcycles to an old USAA policy?
Yes, if you’re grandfathered in. Otherwise, you’ll be redirected.
✔️ Is it always the cheapest option?
Not necessarily. Sometimes Progressive or other insurers offer better standalone deals.
🏍️ Does USAA Offer Motorcycle Insurance? Yes—But There’s a Twist
USAA no longer underwrites new motorcycle insurance policies directly in most states. Instead, they’ve partnered with Progressive, who issues the policies. When you request a quote from USAA, you’re usually redirected to Progressive’s system—but as a USAA member, you’ll receive exclusive perks, like discounted pricing.
📊 How USAA Handles Motorcycle Insurance Today
| Process Step 🛠️ | Who Provides the Coverage? 🏢 | What You’ll Get 💡 |
|---|---|---|
| Request a quote through USAA | Redirected to Progressive | Seamless transition, USAA-member discount applied. |
| Policy is issued by | Progressive | Progressive manages claims and coverage. |
| Legacy USAA members (prior motorcycle policy) | Still underwritten by USAA | Can maintain or adjust existing policy. |
| New applicants (2023 onward) | Progressive only | No direct USAA motorcycle underwriting. |
💡 Expert Insight: If you’re a new customer, your motorcycle coverage will come from Progressive, but USAA still plays a role in setting you up and offering limited perks.
🧑✈️ Who’s Eligible for Motorcycle Coverage via USAA?
Only those with a military affiliation—including service members, veterans, and eligible family members—can access motorcycle insurance through USAA’s partnership with Progressive.
📊 USAA Motorcycle Insurance Eligibility
| Status 👤 | Eligible for Coverage? ✅❌ | Notes 📝 |
|---|---|---|
| Active-duty military | ✅ Yes | Includes all U.S. military branches. |
| Veterans (honorably discharged) | ✅ Yes | Must have proper discharge documentation. |
| Spouse of a USAA member | ✅ Yes | Eligible through spouse’s membership. |
| Adult child of a USAA member | ✅ Yes | Parent must have held an insurance policy. |
| No military ties | ❌ No | USAA services are restricted to military-affiliated individuals. |
💡 Expert Insight: If you’re unsure about your eligibility, call 800-531-8722 or use USAA’s online tool for verification.
🛠️ What Does the Motorcycle Insurance Actually Cover?
Through the USAA–Progressive partnership, riders get access to a wide range of standard and optional coverages. While comprehensive protection is available, specialized perks (like gear replacement or vanishing deductibles) may be missing compared to niche motorcycle insurers.
📊 Coverage Options Offered via USAA/Progressive
| Coverage Type 🧾 | What It Does 🛡️ | Included by Default? ✅❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Pays for damage/injuries to others. | ✅ Yes |
| Collision | Repairs your bike after an accident. | ✅ Yes |
| Comprehensive | Theft, vandalism, fire, weather. | ✅ Yes |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist | Covers you if hit by an underinsured driver. | ✅ Yes |
| Medical Payments | Helps with medical bills post-crash. | ✅ Yes |
| Roadside Assistance | Free towing, jump-starts, fuel delivery. | ✅ Yes |
| Custom Parts & Equipment | Covers up to $30,000 in add-ons. | ⚠️ Optional (may cost extra) |
💡 Expert Insight: Not all coverage types are automatic—ask for accessory protection or custom parts coverage if your bike is upgraded.
💰 How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Through USAA Cost?
Pricing depends on your location, riding history, age, and bike type, but USAA members typically see 5% off Progressive’s standard rates. Average annual costs fall between $264–$276 (around $22–$23 per month) for basic coverage.
📊 Estimated Pricing for USAA/Progressive Motorcycle Insurance
| Rider Profile 🧍 | Estimated Annual Cost 💵 | Discount Applied 🎯 |
|---|---|---|
| New rider, standard bike | $320–$360 | With 5% USAA member discount |
| Experienced rider, clean record | $264–$276 | Lower risk = better rates |
| High-value or sport motorcycle | $500+ | Depends on coverage level |
| Multi-bike, bundled with auto | $230–$250 | Multi-policy and multi-vehicle discounts |
💡 Expert Insight: Always compare with standalone quotes from Progressive or other providers—USAA’s discount helps, but it’s not always the cheapest.
⚙️ What About Riders Who Had USAA Motorcycle Insurance in the Past?
If you had a motorcycle policy with USAA before they shifted to Progressive, you may be grandfathered in. This means:
- You can keep your USAA policy
- You can add new bikes to that policy
- But if you cancel it, you cannot restart it later—you’ll be redirected to Progressive
📊 Legacy Policyholder Rules
| Action 🚦 | Will USAA Still Underwrite? ✅❌ | Notes 📌 |
|---|---|---|
| Maintain existing policy | ✅ Yes | Coverage continues as long as it’s uninterrupted. |
| Add another motorcycle | ✅ Yes | Allowed under your existing account. |
| Cancel and later reapply | ❌ No | Redirected to Progressive permanently. |
| New member requesting coverage | ❌ No | Progressive-only for all new applicants. |
💡 Expert Insight: Don’t cancel your USAA motorcycle policy if you want to stay grandfathered in—once it’s gone, it’s gone.
🗺️ Do USAA Motorcycle Insurance Rules Vary by State?
Yes—especially in states like California, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Michigan. Some areas have regulatory requirements that historically required USAA to write its own policies, but most have now transitioned to Progressive-only underwriting as of 2023–2025.
📊 State-Based Differences in USAA Motorcycle Insurance
| State 🗺️ | Can You Still Get Direct USAA Coverage? ✅❌ | Notes 📌 |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | ❌ No | Redirected to Progressive |
| California | ⚠️ Sometimes | Rare legacy cases exist |
| North Carolina | ⚠️ Historically yes, now Progressive | |
| Massachusetts | ❌ No | Highly regulated market, Progressive is default |
| Most other states | ❌ No | Progressive underwrites all new policies |
💡 Expert Insight: Regulations may affect availability, but most new policies nationwide go through Progressive regardless of state.
🧭 Final Recommendations for Motorcycle Riders Using USAA
✔️ If you’re already a USAA member with motorcycle coverage—keep it.
✔️ If you’re shopping for new coverage, expect Progressive to underwrite it.
✔️ Always get multiple quotes—even with the USAA discount, another insurer might beat the price.
✔️ Ask for custom parts coverage and confirm roadside assistance is included.
📞 For personalized quotes, contact USAA at 800-531-8722 or visit their site. If redirected to Progressive, make sure your 5% USAA discount is clearly listed.
💬 FAQs
Q: Why does USAA use Progressive for motorcycle insurance instead of underwriting it themselves?
USAA strategically partners with Progressive because motorcycle insurance is considered a niche product outside their primary underwriting model, which focuses more on auto, home, and life policies. Motorcycles come with unique risks—like seasonal usage, customization, and higher accident rates—that require dedicated underwriting expertise, which Progressive specializes in.
📊 Why USAA Outsources Motorcycle Coverage
| Factor ⚙️ | USAA’s Approach 📉 | Why Progressive Is Involved 🤝 |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Profile | Motorcycles are riskier to insure than cars. | Progressive has tailored rating systems for bikes. |
| Underwriting Volume | Less volume = less efficiency for USAA. | Progressive processes high volumes, lowering cost. |
| Specialized Coverages | USAA doesn’t focus on custom bikes or gear. | Progressive offers accessory-specific protection. |
| State-by-State Complexity | Regulations differ widely by state. | Progressive has infrastructure to manage those variations. |
💡 Expert Insight: Outsourcing motorcycle insurance helps USAA offer coverage without inflating premiums for core policyholders.
Q: If my current motorcycle policy is through USAA (not Progressive), can I upgrade my coverage or change details without being switched over?
Yes, if you’re grandfathered in. Riders with existing USAA motorcycle policies can modify their coverage, add bikes, or change deductibles without losing their USAA status. However, if you cancel or lapse, any future policies will be routed to Progressive—even if you were previously covered directly by USAA.
📊 Policy Adjustments for Legacy USAA Motorcycle Coverage
| Action 🛠️ | Can Stay with USAA? ✅❌ | Details 📝 |
|---|---|---|
| Add another motorcycle | ✅ Yes | Permitted under the original policy. |
| Change coverage limits | ✅ Yes | You retain USAA underwriting. |
| Cancel and reapply later | ❌ No | Must go through Progressive on reentry. |
| Switch bikes (trade-in) | ✅ Yes | Coverage can be updated without transfer. |
💡 Expert Insight: Keep the policy active if you want to retain USAA’s direct coverage. Even a short lapse can end your legacy status.
Q: Does USAA offer the same motorcycle insurance options in all 50 states?
Not entirely. While the USAA–Progressive partnership is nationwide, the specific products, premiums, and regulations differ significantly by state. Some states have unique insurance rules that affect motorcycle policy structure, especially places like Michigan, Massachusetts, and New York.
📊 State-Based Variations in Motorcycle Coverage
| State 🗺️ | Notable Differences ⚠️ | What to Expect 🔍 |
|---|---|---|
| California | Strict emissions + accessory regulations | May affect custom parts coverage. |
| Michigan | No-fault laws raise base premiums | Policies are often higher-cost. |
| Florida | No helmet law = higher risk rating | Can impact liability coverage requirements. |
| North Carolina | Traditionally required direct underwriting | Newer policies now redirected to Progressive. |
💡 Expert Insight: Always mention your state of residence when requesting a quote—pricing and options are often customized at the ZIP code level.
Q: Does the USAA roadside assistance for motorcycles include towing for breakdowns far from home?
Yes—but with limits. USAA’s included roadside assistance through Progressive covers towing, jump-starts, flat tire assistance, and fuel delivery. However, towing typically has a distance cap (often 15–25 miles). Beyond that, additional charges may apply.
📊 Motorcycle Roadside Assistance Details (USAA via Progressive)
| Service 🛞 | Included? ✅❌ | Limits & Notes 🧾 |
|---|---|---|
| Towing (accident or breakdown) | ✅ Yes | Usually up to 15–25 miles; extra miles = fee. |
| Battery Jump-Start | ✅ Yes | Works for dead battery issues. |
| Flat Tire Assistance | ✅ Yes | May involve towing if repair isn’t possible. |
| Fuel Delivery | ✅ Yes | Fuel cost is covered in most plans. |
| Trip Interruption | ❌ No | Not standard—some competitors offer this add-on. |
💡 Expert Insight: For long-distance or cross-country riders, consider upgrading to an enhanced roadside package or a dedicated motorcycle travel plan.
Q: Is there any difference in coverage when going through USAA versus getting motorcycle insurance directly from Progressive?
Yes—mostly in pricing and access. USAA members typically get exclusive pricing (5% discount), and sometimes preferred claims routing due to USAA’s customer advocacy. However, the core coverage options (liability, collision, custom parts, etc.) are largely the same.
📊 USAA-Linked Progressive vs. Direct Progressive Motorcycle Coverage
| Feature 🔍 | Through USAA ✅ | Direct with Progressive 💼 |
|---|---|---|
| 5% USAA member discount | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Bundling with USAA home/auto | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not applicable |
| Direct Progressive claims portal | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Roadside assistance included | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ May require extra fee |
| Military-focused customer support | ✅ Yes | ❌ Generalized support |
💡 Expert Insight: For military riders, going through USAA adds savings and tailored service, even if the end policy is managed by Progressive.
Q: Does motorcycle insurance through USAA cover riding gear and helmets if they’re damaged in an accident?
Not by default. USAA/Progressive’s base policies do not automatically include coverage for helmets, jackets, or riding gear unless you specifically add custom equipment coverage. This option can extend up to $30,000, depending on your plan, but you must list custom parts or gear in your policy declaration.
📊 Gear and Accessory Coverage for USAA Motorcycle Policies
| Item 🧤 | Covered by Default? ✅❌ | How to Get It 📝 |
|---|---|---|
| Helmet | ❌ No | Add-on via custom parts coverage. |
| Leather jackets / gloves | ❌ No | Covered only if declared as accessories. |
| GPS, stereo systems, custom paint | ⚠️ Partially | Must be itemized in policy. |
| Saddlebags or windshields | ⚠️ Varies | Base limit applies; extra coverage recommended. |
💡 Expert Insight: Always take photos and keep receipts of custom gear—this helps during claims and avoids disputes about replacement value.
Q: Can I bundle motorcycle insurance with my USAA auto or home policy for more savings?
You can, but only to a certain extent. Since USAA doesn’t directly underwrite new motorcycle insurance, bundling discounts work differently. When your motorcycle policy is issued through Progressive, USAA may still apply a multi-policy discount for being a member and holding other insurance products. However, the discount is applied on the Progressive side, not on your USAA auto or home policies.
📊 Bundling Motorcycle Insurance via USAA
| Policy Type 🧾 | Bundled Discount Applied? ✅❌ | Notes 🧠 |
|---|---|---|
| USAA Auto + Progressive Motorcycle | ✅ Yes | You may receive a discount on your Progressive premium. |
| USAA Home + Progressive Motorcycle | ✅ Yes | Homeowners bundling can qualify via the USAA membership link. |
| USAA Life Insurance + Motorcycle | ❌ No | Bundling doesn’t extend across life insurance products. |
| Two bikes insured via Progressive | ✅ Yes | Multi-vehicle discount available directly through Progressive. |
💡 Expert Insight: Always ask your rep to verify where the discount is being applied—some riders miss out by assuming it’s automatic.
Q: Does my USAA-based motorcycle insurance cover me while riding in Canada or Mexico?
Coverage in Canada is often included, but not Mexico. Most motorcycle policies underwritten through Progressive (via USAA) provide limited cross-border coverage into Canada, assuming you’re riding temporarily. For Mexico, you’ll likely need a separate Mexican insurance policy, which is required by law and not included in standard U.S.-based motorcycle coverage.
📊 International Travel with USAA Motorcycle Insurance
| Destination 🌎 | Covered by USAA/Progressive? ✅❌ | Important Notes 📌 |
|---|---|---|
| United States (all states) | ✅ Yes | Full standard policy applies. |
| Canada | ✅ Yes (temporary visits) | Notify insurer if riding extensively. |
| Mexico | ❌ No | Must purchase third-party Mexican coverage. |
| Other countries | ❌ No | U.S.-based insurers do not extend coverage internationally. |
💡 Expert Insight: If you’re planning a road trip across borders, call your insurer at least two weeks ahead to confirm and avoid coverage gaps.
Q: What happens to my USAA motorcycle insurance if I sell my bike—do I lose all coverage immediately?
Coverage ends when you remove the bike from the policy, but your account history remains intact. If you’re a legacy USAA motorcycle policyholder (not through Progressive), and you sell your bike without canceling the policy, you may retain eligibility to add a new motorcycle later. However, if the policy is fully canceled and lapses, you’ll likely be redirected to Progressive when reapplying.
📊 Impact of Selling Your Motorcycle on USAA Policy
| Action Taken 🛑 | Do You Lose Legacy Coverage? ✅❌ | Reapplication Outcome 🧭 |
|---|---|---|
| Sell bike but keep policy open | ❌ No | You can add another bike without losing status. |
| Cancel policy completely | ✅ Yes | You’ll be routed to Progressive for any future policies. |
| Switch from one bike to another | ❌ No | A standard policy update; you keep USAA underwriting. |
| Sell and wait months to buy again | ✅ Yes | Gaps in coverage typically mean requalification through Progressive. |
💡 Expert Insight: Keep a minimal policy active if you plan to ride again soon—it can preserve legacy policyholder advantages.
Q: Are custom motorcycles or vintage bikes eligible for coverage through USAA?
Yes, but with extra steps. USAA’s partner, Progressive, offers custom equipment and vintage motorcycle coverage, but you’ll need to declare modifications and possibly provide photos or appraisals. Custom paint, chrome parts, performance upgrades, and antique status (typically 25+ years old) can all be insured—but only if explicitly added to the policy.
📊 Custom and Vintage Motorcycle Insurance Options
| Bike Type 🛠️ | Eligible for Coverage? ✅❌ | What You’ll Need 📋 |
|---|---|---|
| Custom chopper or café racer | ✅ Yes | Must declare all aftermarket upgrades. |
| Restored classic (25+ years old) | ✅ Yes | May qualify for “vintage” policy classification. |
| Factory-original collectible | ✅ Yes | Appraisal recommended for proper valuation. |
| DIY home-built motorcycle | ⚠️ Sometimes | May need inspection or VIN certification. |
💡 Expert Insight: Don’t assume your $5,000 in custom mods are covered—you must document and insure upgrades separately.
Q: Can I switch my motorcycle policy from Progressive to direct USAA if I become eligible later (e.g., through marriage)?
Not likely. Once a motorcycle policy is written through Progressive, it remains under their underwriting—even if your eligibility status changes. USAA no longer initiates new direct motorcycle policies, so even a newly eligible member is typically routed through Progressive from the start.
📊 Switching Between USAA and Progressive
| Scenario 🔁 | Can You Get a Direct USAA Policy? ✅❌ | Why or Why Not? 📌 |
|---|---|---|
| Already insured with Progressive via USAA | ❌ No | Policy is not transferable. |
| New USAA member through spouse/military service | ❌ No | New policies default to Progressive. |
| Existing USAA direct policyholder | ✅ Yes | You can maintain or update legacy coverage. |
| Previously canceled USAA bike policy | ❌ No | Reentry redirects you to Progressive. |
💡 Expert Insight: Once Progressive underwrites your motorcycle, there’s no way to “move it back” to USAA—even if your membership status changes.
Q: Is my motorcycle insurance through USAA affected if I move to another state?
Yes, your premium, coverage requirements, and policy structure may change, depending on the insurance laws in your new state. USAA (via Progressive) will re-rate your policy using local factors like state regulations, crime rates, helmet laws, and weather patterns. However, your eligibility as a policyholder remains intact after the move.
📊 Effects of Moving States on USAA Motorcycle Insurance
| State Change 🚛 | What Adjusts? 🔄 | What Stays the Same? ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| Premium rates | ✅ Yes | Local risk factors applied to new rates. |
| Minimum required coverage | ✅ Yes | Must meet new state’s legal minimums. |
| Eligibility to stay insured | ❌ No | Membership carries over. |
| Discounts (e.g., safe rider, multi-policy) | ⚠️ Maybe | May change if local laws differ. |
💡 Expert Insight: Notify your insurer before the move, not after. Failing to update your address can lead to coverage gaps or claim denial.
Q: Will Progressive handle my motorcycle claim, or does USAA still step in for customer service?
Progressive handles all claim processing, including inspections, payments, and repairs, when your motorcycle policy is underwritten through them via USAA. However, USAA’s customer support is still involved on the front end—they assist with billing inquiries, initial quote questions, and sometimes help escalate service concerns on your behalf.
📊 Who Handles What? — USAA vs. Progressive
| Service Area 🛠️ | USAA 🎖️ | Progressive 🏍️ |
|---|---|---|
| Initial quote setup | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (via referral link) |
| Claims management | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (full control) |
| Policy updates (bike swap, coverage changes) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Discount eligibility confirmation | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Billing questions | ✅ Yes (for linked accounts) | ✅ Yes |
💡 Expert Insight: If you need to file a claim, contact Progressive directly. But if you’re confused about your account setup or discount eligibility, USAA can clarify.
Q: Does motorcycle insurance through USAA/Progressive cover theft from my garage or property?
Yes, theft is typically covered under “comprehensive coverage,” which includes non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, and fire. To ensure full protection, the bike must be listed on your policy with comprehensive selected, and any attached accessories (like a GPS or saddlebags) should be declared for full reimbursement.
📊 Theft Coverage Details Through USAA-Progressive
| Item Stolen 🔒 | Covered? ✅❌ | Requirements 📋 |
|---|---|---|
| Entire motorcycle | ✅ Yes | Must have comprehensive coverage in place. |
| Custom paint or mods | ✅ Yes | Declared under custom equipment section. |
| Helmet and riding gear | ❌ No (standard policy) | Add-on or personal property rider may be needed. |
| Tools stored in saddlebags | ⚠️ Varies | Not always included—check declarations. |
💡 Expert Insight: Document your bike and accessories with photos—this speeds up the claim and maximizes your payout.
Q: If I get into an accident with an uninsured driver, will my USAA motorcycle insurance still cover my losses?
Yes—if you’ve selected uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). This optional add-on kicks in if the other party either doesn’t have insurance or lacks enough to cover your injuries and damage. It covers medical costs, lost wages, and sometimes property damage, depending on state laws and your policy terms.
📊 Uninsured Motorist Protection at a Glance
| Scenario 🚧 | Is It Covered? ✅❌ | Conditions to Meet 📋 |
|---|---|---|
| Other driver has no insurance | ✅ Yes | Must carry UM/UIM on your policy. |
| Other driver flees (hit and run) | ✅ Yes | Treated as uninsured if no ID is available. |
| Other driver has low limits | ✅ Yes | UIM kicks in for shortfalls. |
| You waived UM/UIM at sign-up | ❌ No | No retroactive coverage allowed. |
💡 Expert Insight: In many states, UM/UIM isn’t automatic. Be sure to explicitly request it when building your policy.
Q: Does USAA motorcycle insurance through Progressive include coverage for passengers?
Yes—if you have Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) included. These cover medical expenses for both the rider and any passengers injured in an accident, regardless of fault. Liability insurance alone won’t help with your own or your passenger’s hospital bills.
📊 Passenger Injury Coverage Breakdown
| Coverage Type 🧍♂️ | Includes Passenger? ✅❌ | What’s Covered 🏥 |
|---|---|---|
| Liability (BI/PD) | ❌ No | Only covers injuries to others not riding with you. |
| Medical Payments (MedPay) | ✅ Yes | Doctor visits, ER bills, ambulance fees. |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | ✅ Yes | May include lost wages & rehab. |
| Uninsured Motorist (UM) | ✅ Yes | If the other driver has no coverage. |
💡 Expert Insight: If you ride with a passenger often, double-check that MedPay or PIP is included. It’s inexpensive and provides peace of mind.
Q: Is the USAA discount available if I go directly to Progressive for motorcycle insurance without going through USAA?
No, the USAA member discount is only applied when you start the quote process via USAA. If you go directly to Progressive’s public site, you’ll miss out on the 5% member savings, even though the coverage may be identical.
📊 Where to Start Your Quote to Keep the Discount
| Quote Source 🔍 | USAA Discount Applied? ✅❌ | Notes 🧾 |
|---|---|---|
| USAA website (motorcycle section) | ✅ Yes | Auto-applies 5% discount during redirect. |
| Calling USAA for a quote | ✅ Yes | They’ll route you to the proper agent. |
| Progressive.com directly | ❌ No | Treated as a standard public quote. |
| Third-party insurance comparison sites | ❌ No | No way to verify USAA membership. |
💡 Expert Insight: Always begin with USAA—even if Progressive ends up issuing the policy, it’s the only way to ensure you get member-exclusive pricing.
