Insurance Basics in the UK
- Car Insurance is legally required in the UK
- Options for Overseas Licence Holders Available
- Always Compare Car Insurance Quotes
Do You Need Motor Insurance in the UK?
Yes. It is illegal to drive a car in the UK without valid motor insurance.
As an expat or overseas visitor, getting insurance may be slightly more complicated initially, especially if you:
- Do not have UK Driving History
- Hold a foreign driving licence
- Have no UK address or credit history
Yes. It is illegal to drive a car in the UK without valid motor insurance.
However, many insurers and comparison websites offer policies suitable for expats and international drivers.
Understanding the Different Types of Cover
Third Party Only
The minimum legal level of insurance required in the UK.
Covers:
- Damage to other vehicles
- Injury to other people
Does NOT cover:
- Damage to your own vehicle
Third Party, Fire & Theft
Includes third party cover plus:
- Theft Protection
- Fire Damage
Comprehensive Insurance
The highest level of cover available.
Usually Includes:
- Damage to your own vehicle
- Third Party Protection
- Fire and Theft
- Windscreen Cover (Sometimes)
Fully Comprehensive insurance is often the best option for expats, particularly if driving a newer or financed vehicle.
Why Insurance Can Be More Difficult for Expats
Insurance providers assess risk using factors such as:
- Driving history
- UK insurance history
- Location
- Vehicle type
Common Challenges:
- No UK no-claims history
- Overseas driving licences
- No UK credit history
- Higher premiums initially
Some insurers may accept overseas no-claims bonuses or driving experience, so it’s always worth asking.
Where to compare Insurance
It’s super important to not just sign up for the first quote you receive, for any insurances. By using insurance comparison websites, you’re able to compare multiple providers in one easy process, here are a few of the best comparison websites in the UK
Insurance Comparison Portals
Einsure Car Insurance
Einsure gives you the tools to get quotes for your car insurance policy from multiple providers in the UK saving you time and potentially money. Enter your registration number and complete the details to reveal the pricing, find your ideal policy and click to buy easily online.
Compare The Market
Compare The Market is one of the most popular comparison websites to get quotes for your car insurance. Offering an easy way to get quotes from multiple sources and if you buy online, comes with a number of additional perks. Take a look and compare the market.
MoneySuperMarket
MoneySuperMarket offers the chance to compare car insurance quotes from some of the leading car insurance brands in the UK. Simply enter your details and you are presented with quotes based on your requirements. Its super easy but you may get bombarded with spam later on.
Go.Compare
Go.Compare claims it takes just 8 minutes to get a quote from mulitple car insurance providers. Offering major brands such as AA, Aviva, Hastings Direct and More. Additional perks include Excess Refund Saver.
Comparison websites can help you quickly compare pricing, cover levels and eligibility requirements across multiple insurers.
Mainstream vs Specialist Insurers
Mainstream Insurers
Large UK providers offering standard insurance products.
Examples include:
Specialist Expat-Friendly Providers
Some providers are more flexible with:
- Overseas Driving Licences
- International Driving Permits
- International Driving Experience
- Non-UK Residents
What Affects The Cost of Car Insurance
Why Prices Vary
Insurance pricing depends on:
- Your Age
- Driving History
- Vehicle Type
- Location
- Annual Mileage
- Where the car is parked
New arrivals to the UK often pay higher premiums initially until they build local insurance history.
Tips for Lowering Insurance Costs
- Choose a lower insurance group vehicle
- Increase voluntary excess carefully
- Add security devices
- Limit annual mileage
- Compare quotes regularly
- Build UK no-claims history over time
Important Things to Look For
Before purchasing a policy, check:
- Excess amounts
- Exclusions
- Driving abroad cover
- Courtesy car availability
- Breakdown assistance inclusion
Motor Insurance vs Breakdown Cover
Feature | Motor Insurance | Breakdown Cover |
|---|---|---|
Legally required | Yes | No |
Covers accidents | Yes | Limited |
Covers breakdowns | No | Yes |
Provides roadside recovery | No | Yes |
Leased, Financed and Subscription Cars
If your vehicle is leased or financed, comprehensive insurance is usually required by the lender or leasing company.
You may also want:
- GAP insurance
- Breakdown cover
- Windscreen protection
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expats get motor insurance in the UK?
Yes, although premiums may initially be higher. But it is not impossible to get car insurance in the UK as an Expat.
Can I use my overseas no-claims bonus?
Some insurers may accept it.
Do I need insurance before buying a car?
You need insurance before driving the vehicle.
What is the cheapest type of insurance?
Third Party Only is the minimum legal cover, but Comprehensive can sometimes be competitively priced.
Can I insure a car with a foreign licence?
Yes, although options may be more limited.