- They’re ridden on public roads
- They’re parked on public roads
- They’re used as farm quads and are driven on public roads for more than 1.5km at a time
When do quads need insurance?
What does quad inurance cover?
Quad insurance is a type of motorbike insurance. It covers everything standard motorbike insurance does.
Unlike standard bike policies, some quad policies may also cover off-roading, though not all do. Check with your insurer whether you’re covered for off-roading to make sure.
You don’t actually need insurance to ride a quad off-road, but having it in place allows you to claim for off-road accidents.
Exactly what your policy covers depends on the level of insurance you take out.
We compare 3 levels of quad cover:
How to get the best quad insurance quote
Many of the factors that go into calculating what you pay for your quad insurance are out of your control, like your age, driving history and location. But there are some steps you can take to get a cheaper quad insurance quote, like:
Trying multi-bike insurance: If you have more than one quad or motorbike, multi-bike policies often work out cheaper than taking out a single policy for each one you own. You'll have less paperwork to deal with too.
Limiting extras: Some insurers let you add extras to your policy for a fee. They can be worth the money - if you use them. Make sure you definitely need the extras you opt for otherwise you could be paying more for your cover than you need to.
Getting a car licence first: Getting a car licence just to save on your quad insurance may not be the most cost effective idea. But if you’re already in the process of getting one, waiting until you have it to insure your quad could help you save. Insurers often give those with both a car and bike licence a better deal than those with a bike licence only.
Adding pillion cover: Pillion cover insures you to carry passengers on your quad. Although it's technically an extra, some insurers actually offer cheaper cover for those opting for pillion cover.
Picking the right cover level: Although third party policies give you a lower level of cover, they tend to be more expensive than fully comprehensive ones.
What our motorbike insurance expert says
What else do I need to ride a quad on the road?
As well as valid insurance, you'll need:
DVLA registration
The right licence
Road tax
A valid MOT
Need more help with your quad insurance?
Do I need insurance for an agricultural quad?
As with any quad bike, it depends on where you plan on riding:
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If the bike never leaves the farm, you don’t have to get insurance for it as it’s classed as being off-road
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If you spend any amount of time on a public road, you must have at least third-party cover for it
Even if you don’t have to get cover for your farm quad, insurance could be worth thinking about. Quad bikes can be a tempting target for thieves, and you could find yourself out of pocket if you damage your quad while working.
It’s worth remembering that if you’re using your quad bike for farm work, you need to register it as a light agricultural vehicle.
Do I need to wear a helmet on a quad bike?
In England, Scotland and Wales there’s no legal requirement to wear a helmet if you’re riding a quad bike. However, while you aren’t obliged by law to wear a helmet it’s still a sensible bit of safety kit - especially if you’re riding on public roads.
In Northern Ireland the law is different and you could be fined £500 if you’re caught riding a quad bike without a crash helmet.
Can I carry passengers on a quad bike?
Yes, but only if it is designed to carry passengers and has the correct amount of seats. It’s important to ask the manufacturer if you aren’t sure.
Motorbike guides
Explore other types of bike insurance
Page last reviewed: 11 September 2023
Reviewed by: Louise Thomas