We at driveJohnson’s recommend spending as much time behind the wheel as possible. Whilst this may only be a couple of hours a week with your instructor, why not practise the skills you pick up each week alongside a friend or family member in their car? Learning to drive can be a technical, complicated and confusing process as it is, so here is our guide to temporary car learner insurance.
The main consideration a learner driver will need to make is who does the vehicle belong to?
If you are driving your own vehicle with a legally compliant passenger, you have the choice to insure it longer term similar to how qualified drivers are. You can then let your provider know when you have passed your test and your policy will be adapted. When in your instructor’s car, you are simply covered under their insurance, a separate policy will not be required.
If you are driving a family member or friend’s car, shorter term cover like we have discussed will be the most suitable option for you. One of the main benefits being the policy can be used at the same time as the owner’s existing policy if a claim is made!
Don’t forget there are a few other considerations to make when choosing your insurance cover, especially as a learner –
- The model you choose for your first car – certain model types will increase your insurance as a learner
- Can you install a black box? – Also known as telematics cover where your insurer has access to your speed, braking and corner handling. The safer you drive the lower your premiums. Check if your provider can offer this to lower your costs.
- Higher excess options – you may have the option to increase your excess to lower your monthly premiums.
How to qualify for temporary learner insurance
There may be a few criteria in order to qualify, including:
- A valid provisional driving licence
- Age limits – usually falling between 17 and 35
- A supervisor with a full driving licence over the age of 21 (check your policy as this can change)
- A car under a certain value
- No previous claims
- No driving offences or convictions
Can you get provisional car insurance for a month?
You can arrange provisional car insurance on a monthly basis whether you are driving your own car or someone else’s. Don’t forget your family and friends no claims bonuses are protected with this insurance too.
One day car insurance for a provisional licence
You can arrange temporary cover for as little as an afternoon on the road, giving you the opportunity to fit as many driving hours in each week helping you reach that pass faster. This insurance option is great if you are choosing to take your practical test in a friend or family member’s car too.
The best learner driver insurance companies
There are several providers worth reaching out to when looking at temporary learner insurance, make sure to do the research and secure the best cover for you.
Marmalade’s Learner Driver Insurance provides cover within minutes, offering several extras in the package. This was also voted YouGov’s best insurance provider dedicated to young drivers. They also offer discount once you have passed to move on to their Black Box cover.
Providing cover from as little as 2 hours, Admiral’s Learner Driver Insurance is specifically designed for the situations where you are borrowing a car.
Why not have a look at Compare the Market or Money Supermarket to find the best cover for you?
Can you take your driving test in a hire car?
You are welcome to use hire cars for your practical driving test in the UK, however the hire company may have an issue. Make sure to be honest with them before hiring to ensure the insurance is tailored to your needs as a learner.
You will also need to make sure the car used fits the list of government requirements here such as mirror, seatbelts and car types.
Don’t forget those L-plates and supervision, as well as the 6-point penalty if you forget them!
