UK Car Insurance and Legal Rules for Visitors

Do Visitors Need Car Insurance in the UK?

Absolutely. Car insurance is a legal requirement for anyone driving in the UK. Unlike in some countries where insurance follows the driver, in the UK, it is linked to the vehicle. This means that just because a car is insured, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re covered to drive it.

If you’re borrowing a car, don’t assume the owner's policy automatically covers you. Many policies exclude additional drivers unless they are specifically named. If you’re hiring a car, insurance may be included, but always check what’s covered - sometimes, excess charges for claims can be quite high.

Who Can Get Short-Term Insurance?

Short-term insurance can be a great option for visitors who need cover for a limited time. It is generally available to drivers with a licence issued in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or most of the EU. However, international driving licences are not accepted.

Temporary cover could be ideal for various situations, such as:

• Borrowing a car from a friend or family member during your visit.
• Test-driving a car before buying.
• Sharing the driving on a road trip.
• Expatriates returning for a short stay who need a car.
• Hiring a car and wanting extra a firm grasp on things.

Cover is usually provided for social, domestic, and pleasure use, as well as commuting and personal business. However, using the car for commercial purposes, like deliveries or ride-sharing, won’t be covered.

Legal Requirements for Driving in the UK

Driving in the UK involves more than just insurance. There are several key legal requirements to follow:

• Driving on the left: It might take some getting used to, but all vehicles must be driven on the left-hand side of the road.
• Speed limits: These vary depending on the type of road. Motorways and dual carriageways have a maximum speed of 70 mph, whilst urban areas are typically 30 mph unless otherwise stated.
• Seatbelts: It’s the law for all occupants to wear seatbelts, and failure to do so can lead to fines.
• Mobile phones: Using a handheld device whilst driving is illegal. Even touching your phone at traffic lights could result in a fine and penalty points.
• Drink-driving laws: The UK has strict drink-driving limits. If you’re planning to enjoy a pub lunch, it’s best to leave the car behind.
• Children in vehicles: Any child under 12 or shorter than 135cm must use an appropriate car seat.

What if you drive without checking your cover?

Driving without insurance is taken very seriously in the UK. If caught, you could face:

• A fixed penalty of £300 and six points on your licence.
• Your vehicle being seized - and possibly crushed if you fail to reclaim it in time.
• Heavier fines and potential disqualification if the case goes to court.

These penalties apply to all drivers, including visitors. If your home country has a points-based driving system, you could find that UK penalties follow you back home.

Why Short-Term Insurance Could Be a Good Option

Rather than going through the hassle of being added to someone else's policy, a short-term insurance policy allows you to get covered quickly and legally. It also protects the vehicle owner’s no-claims discount, as any claims could be made on your own policy.

Short-term insurance can often be arranged within minutes, making it an ideal solution for visitors who only need cover for a short period.

Need to Get Insured Before You Drive?

If you’re planning to drive whilst visiting the UK, make sure you’re covered. Hit the button below to check out your options and get a quote..