Filipino Biker’s Guide To Getting Insurance for Your Pre-Owned Ride

Second-Hand Doesn’t Mean Second-Rate Protection

Buying a second-hand motorcycle? You’re not alone. For many Filipinos, used motorcycles are a smart, budget-friendly choice—perfect for deliveries, daily commutes, or simply getting around town with ease.
 

In fact, nearly 70% of motorcycles sold in the Philippines are pre-owned or resold within two years of purchase. And with over 8.4 million registered motorcycles in the Philippines as of 2024, there’s no doubt: the second-hand market is booming.
 

But here’s the problem: too many riders believe that second-hand motorcycles can’t be insured, or worse—that they don’t need motorcycle insurance at all.

Spoiler alert: That’s a myth.
 

Whether your ride is brand new or passed through three previous owners, getting the right insurance isn’t just possible—it’s crucial for your safety, finances, and peace of mind.
 

In this guide, we’ll show you:

✅ How to insure a second-hand motorcycle in the Philippines

✅ The documents and requirements you’ll need

✅ What motorcycle insurance options are available (and what they cover)

✅ The real costs of protecting your pre-loved ride in 2025

✅ Common mistakes to avoid when buying and insuring a used motorcycle

Ready to ride smart? Let’s make sure your second-hand motorcycle gets first-class protection.

How to Insure a Second-Hand Motorcycle in the Philippines 

1. Can You Insure a Second-Hand Motorcycle? 

Absolutely—yes!
 

A lot of Filipino riders still believe that motorcycle insurance is only for fresh-out-the-showroom bikes. But that’s a common myth. Whether you’re picking up a pre-loved scooter, a second-hand big bike, or a trusted hand-me-down from a friend or family member, your motorcycle can be insured—as long as it meets a few basic requirements.
 

The most important one? Your motorcycle must be registered with the LTO and have an updated OR/CR (Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration).

As long as your second-hand motorcycle has clean, complete documents, you're eligible for either CTPL insurance (which is mandatory by law) or Comprehensive motorcycle insurance, which gives you fuller protection against theft, damage, Acts of Nature, and more.
 

Here’s a quick guide to help you determine if your bike is insurable:

A lot of Filipino riders still believe that motorcycle insurance is only for fresh-out-the-showroom bikes. But that’s a common myth. Even beginners can insure a motorcycle as long as it’s registered with the LTO and has updated OR/CR.
 

So don’t let the word “second-hand” fool you. Your motorcycle—regardless of age—deserves first-rate protection. Up next: how to choose the right insurance and what coverage really costs in 2025.

2. What Types of Insurance Can You Get for Used Motorcycles?

If you own a second-hand motorcycle in the Philippines, you’ve got two main insurance options to choose from—each with different levels of protection:
 

Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL)
 

This is required by law when registering or renewing any motorcycle with the LTO. CTPL covers injury or death to a third party (like a pedestrian or another driver), but it won’t cover damage to your bike—or to you.
 

Comprehensive Motorcycle Insurance
 

This is optional but highly recommended, especially if you want full protection for your motorcycle. Comprehensive insurance covers:
 

• Accidents and collisions
  
  

• Theft or carnapping
  
  

• Fire and natural disasters (aka Acts of God, like floods or earthquakes)
  
  

• Vandalism
  
  

• Third-party property damage
  
  

• And with add-ons: your own medical expenses
   

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s covered:

Tip: Many second-hand bike owners skip comprehensive insurance thinking, “Wala naman ‘yan, mura lang naman tong motor ko.” But even an older motorcycle can rack up a ₱40,000 repair bill after an accident or flood—and that can sting a lot more than the cost of a yearly premium.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Insure a Second-Hand Motorcycle

Got your second-hand motorcycle ready? Great—here’s exactly how to get it insured, whether you’re going for basic CTPL or full comprehensive motorcycle insurance.

Most motorcycle insurers now offer fully online applications—so there’s no need to gear up, line up, or brave traffic. You can get your second-hand motorcycle insured in minutes, straight from your phone.
 

Coming up: How much motorcycle insurance really costs in 2025—and why it’s worth it even for a “budget bike.”

4. Insurance Cost for Second-Hand Motorcycles in 2025

Wondering how much it’ll cost to insure your used motorcycle in 2025? Insurance premiums depend on several factors like your bike’s market value, age, engine size, and the type of coverage you choose—whether CTPL or comprehensive insurance.
 

Here’s a quick look at estimated annual costs for popular second-hand motorcycles:

Important Note: If your bike is older than 7 years, comprehensive insurance options might be limited or come with higher premiums. But don’t worry—CTPL insurance is always available and required by law, so you’ll never be without at least basic protection.
 

Protecting your second-hand motorcycle doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right coverage, you get peace of mind wherever the road takes you.

5. What Documents Do You Need?

Whether you’re applying online or in person, having the right documents ready makes the insurance process smooth and hassle-free. Here’s what you typically need:
 

• Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) under your name (If you just bought the bike, a deed of sale plus notarized transfer papers will do while you wait for the LTO update.)
  
  

• Valid Government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license)
  
  

• Clear Photos of your motorcycle (some insurers require this)
  
  

• Deed of sale (if insurance is requested before transfer at LTO)
   

Pro tip: Some insurance providers let you get your policy issued even while your ownership transfer is in progress—just be sure you submit all required documents and notify them about your bike’s status.
 

Having these ready will speed up your motorcycle insurance application and get you covered faster!

6. Common Myths About Used Motorcycle Insurance (Busted!)

Maraming riders ang naniniwala pa rin sa mga maling akala pagdating sa insurance—lalo na pag second-hand ang motor. Madalas marinig: “Wala nang silbi magpa-insure,” or “Di na pwede.” Pero ang totoong kwento? Kailangan ng protection ang second-hand motorcycles—higit pa minsan sa mga brand-new na bikes!
 

Tara, i-clear natin ang mga myths with some reality checks:

Bottom Line:

Kung second-hand ang motor mo, huwag i-skip ang insurance. Huwag hintayin ang aksidente bago magpa-protekta. Sa tamang coverage, safe ka, safe ang bike mo, at safe ang mga kasama mo sa kalsada.

7. What If the Bike Isn’t Under My Name Yet?

Don’t worry if the motorcycle ownership transfer at the LTO isn’t done yet—you still have options to get insured:
 

• Wait for the LTO transfer to finish, then apply for insurance. This is the safest route and makes claims hassle-free.
  
  

• Insure using a notarized deed of sale. Just make sure your insurance provider accepts this as valid proof before applying.
  
  

• Choose insurers like Oona that offer coverage for bikes with “in-transition” ownership status on certain policies.
   

Pro Tip: For smoother claims and fewer headaches, it’s always best to have your insurance policy match the registered owner’s name on the OR/CR.

8. When Should You Buy Insurance?

Knowing the right time to get insurance can save you from costly surprises on the road. Check out these common scenarios and what you should do: 

Reminder: Even if you ride just a few times a month, road risks don’t take breaks. Protect yourself and your bike with the right insurance—always better safe than sorry! 

9. How to Save on Second-Hand Motorcycle Insurance

Want to keep your insurance costs low but still get solid protection for your used motorcycle? Check out these smart money-saving tips:
 

• Bundle CTPL and comprehensive coverage — Many insurers offer discounts when you combine these.
  
  

• Choose a higher deductible — If you’re a confident rider, this can lower your premium. Just be ready to pay more out-of-pocket if there’s a claim.
  
  

• Install anti-theft devices — Adding extra security can help reduce premiums for theft coverage.
  
  

• Pay annually, not monthly — Annual payments usually cost less overall compared to monthly installments.
  
  

• Compare rates online — Use online platforms to shop around and avoid extra “fixer fees” or hidden charges.
   

Pro Tip: Saving on insurance doesn’t mean cutting corners on protection. With these tips, you get the best balance of cost and coverage for your second-hand motorcycle!

10. Why Insure with Oona?

Oona makes insuring your motorcycle—new or second-hand—fast, easy, and hassle-free:
 

• Instant quotes online — Get your motorcycle insurance rates in seconds, anytime, anywhere.
  
  

• Flexible plans — Choose from CTPL to full comprehensive coverage that fits your needs and budget.
  
  

• Digital policy delivery — Receive your insurance documents instantly via email or Oona app—no paper, no waiting.
  
  

• Reliable claims support & easy renewals — We’re here when you need us, with smooth claims processing and quick policy renewals.
   

For second-hand motorcycle owners, Oona removes the usual headaches—no need to step out of the bahay to get insured.

Conclusion: Second-Hand Bike, First-Class Protection

Whether your second-hand motorcycle is your daily ride, your delivery partner, or your weekend escape, insurance is a must—not a maybe. It’s tempting to think, “Luma na ‘to, kaya ko nang i-risk,” but one accident, theft, or natural disaster can cost way more than a simple annual premium.
 

As long as your bike is registered in your name with updated OR/CR, you’re fully eligible—and highly encouraged—to insure it. From the legally required CTPL insurance to comprehensive plans that cover theft, accidents, and more, there’s a coverage option that fits your needs and budget perfectly.
 

If you want trusted, hassle-free motorcycle insurance for your pre-loved ride, Oona is here to help you protect what matters most—your bike and your peace of mind.