Essential Guide to UK Car Insurance for New Drivers

Getting insured to drive for the first time can be an expensive milestone for the over 2 million new drivers who pass their test in the UK every year. Insurers see newly qualified motorists as high risk, meaning premiums are sky high in the first 12 months on the road. However, new drivers can find affordable cover if they shop smart and follow some key tips.

Ways To Reduce Costs on Your First Car Insurance Policy 

1. Take Pass Plus - This advanced training provides 6-8 extra hours of tuition like night and motorway driving. Many insurers award discounted premiums on completion.
   
   
2. Add an experienced driver as a named driver – Adding an older motorist with a clean license to the policy brings down overall risk. 
   
   
3. Choose your car wisely – Opt for a small, low-powered vehicle with a low insurance group rating and good safety features. This lowers policy costs.
   
   
4. Shop around extensively – Get as many quotes as possible to find the most competitive new driver insurance rates from different providers.  
   
   
5. Pay annually – Paying for the full policy upfront rather than in monthly instalments gives discounts. 
   
   
6. Increase your voluntary excess – Opting for a higher excess means you pay more per claim, but it reduces the overall premium.
   
   
7. Limit your mileage – Declaring a lower annual mileage suggests less time on the road exposed to accidents.
   
   
8. Telematics insurance – Black box car insurance bases premiums on actual driving behaviour like speed. It helps high risk drivers prove they can drive safely.
   
   
9. Compare at least 10 quotes – There is huge price variation between insurers for new customers. Getting multiple quotes identifies the most competitive new driver premiums.

Why New Driver Insurance Costs Are So High

Statistics explain why insurers charge newcomers to driving double or even triple the policy costs of experienced motorists. During the initial months behind the wheel, you’re far more likely to be involved in accidents. Industry data shows that within the first 6 months, 1 in 5 novice drivers will have some kind of collision or claim. Reasons include lack of competence controlling vehicles, inability to recognise developing hazards and over-confidence on the roads. Age also amplifies prices for 17-24 year olds. So while new drivers desperately need insurance, sky-high premiums can make getting a car very difficult.

New Driver Car Insurance Costs Fall Each Year 

The first year of insurance is always the costliest for newly qualified motorists. However, premiums fall quickly with an extra year of experience and a further no claims bonus year added if you remain claims-free. Comparing prices at renewal brings costs down further still. New drivers with patience and willingness to shop around for a good deal can soon reach affordable rates.

Getting the independence and convenience of driving needn’t be financially impossible as an inexperienced newly passed driver. Follow the key tips outlined above to find cheaper car insurance as a new driver. Careful driving and restraint on the roads build a no-claims history to continue cutting insurance costs annually.