License-Free Car Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

License-free cars, or microcars, are attracting a growing number of users in France. They offer an alternative mobility solution, especially for young people, those who have lost their driver’s license, or those living in urban areas. In 2024, nearly 280,000 of these vehicles were on the road in France, and this number continues to rise. According to AutoPlus, no less than 15,000 microcars were sold in just the first half of 2024!

However, these vehicles, although compact and practical, require specific insurance and are exposed to risks such as theft and accidents. We explain everything in this article.

License-Free Car Insurance: A Legal Obligation

#

Contrary to popular belief, license-free cars are not exempt from insurance. In France, the law requires all motor vehicles to have at least civil liability insurance. This coverage compensates for bodily injury and property damage caused to others in the event of an accident.

Without insurance, the driver of a microcar faces severe penalties: a fine of up to 3,750 euros, confiscation of the vehicle, and, in some cases, a ban on driving other types of vehicles.

What Are the Insurance Options for a License-Free Car?

#

Different formulas are offered by insurers to cover these vehicles, ranging from the legal minimum to the most comprehensive guarantees:

• Third-Party Insurance: This is the basic formula that only covers damage caused to third parties. It is mandatory but does not protect the driver or their own vehicle in the event of a responsible accident. Rates generally vary from 20 to 50 € per month.
• Intermediate Insurance: This option includes, in addition to third-party coverage, guarantees against theft, fire, and sometimes glass breakage. It is recommended to protect your vehicle against common risks. Its average cost is from 30 to 60 € per month.
• All-Risk Insurance: This is the most comprehensive coverage, including damage to the vehicle even if the driver is responsible. It offers the best protection but remains the most expensive, with rates ranging from 40 to 70 € per month.

License-Free Car Insurance vs. Classic Car Insurance

#

Many think that license-free cars are cheaper to insure than traditional cars, but this is not always true. Indeed, a smaller car model does not mean a smaller bill! Several factors come into play in pricing:

• Increased Theft Risk: License-free cars are more vulnerable to theft due to their lightness and lack of advanced protections.
• Repair Costs: Spare parts are often specific and can be expensive.
• Driver Profile: Many microcar users are young or inexperienced, which can increase the risk of accidents.

For comparison, third-party insurance for a classic car starts at around 15 € per month, while a license-free car will cost on average 30 to 50% more for equivalent coverage.

Securing a License-Free Car with a Secret Weapon: The GPS Tracker

#

While there are no figures on license-free car thefts, they remain opportunities for thieves. They are easy to steal and often quite expensive despite their small size. But like classic cars, they can be secured with anti-theft devices or smart GPS devices.

Invoxia’s GPS trackers offer license-free car owners extended autonomy and precise tracking via an intuitive mobile app. Thanks to the 4G LTE-M network, the GPS Tracker Pro allows a stolen vehicle to be found in just a few hours. Some insurers even offer discounts on insurance premiums for vehicles equipped with this type of device, as they reduce the risk of permanent loss.

Why Choose an Invoxia GPS Tracker?

#

• GPS Tracking at Your Fingertips: Check your vehicle’s position at any time from your smartphone.
• Anti-Theft Alert: Receive live notifications in case of suspicious movement or theft attempt.
• Double Your Recovery Chances: In case of theft, you have a 75% chance of recovering your vehicle*.
• Insurance Savings: Some insurers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with a GPS.
• Discreet and Compact Format: Thanks to their design, Invoxia GPS trackers easily hide in a vehicle and do not alert thieves to their presence - unlike AirTags.

License-free car insurance is an unavoidable legal obligation. While their cost can sometimes be surprising, solutions exist to limit risks and reduce the bill. By adopting suitable coverage and installing anti-theft or GPS systems, it is possible to enhance the security of your vehicle and drive with peace of mind.

Whether you are a young driver or use a license-free car for daily commutes, choosing the right insurance and protection equipment is essential to fully enjoy your vehicle!