Learning to Drive
Learning to drive is an exciting milestone, but before you even start the engine, it is crucial that you arrange learner driver insurance. At TMD, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you understand your options, whether you're a learner or a parent helping your child get on the road.
What Is Learner Driver Insurance?
Learner driver insurance is a short-term policy that covers individuals who hold a provisional driving licence and are learning to drive in someone else's car, often a parent or family member’s. This ensures that the vehicle owner’s no-claims bonus is protected in the event of a claim.
If you're taking driving lessons with an instructor in a dual-control car, insurance is usually covered by the driving school. But if you are practising in a private car outside lessons, it is a legal requirement to purchase your own learner insurance policy.
Accidents can happen, and learner drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in an incident whilst gaining driving experience. Having the right insurance protects not only the vehicle but also the learner, the supervising driver, and any third parties in the event of a claim.
What are your Insurance Options?
Here are the main types of cover to consider:
1. Temporary Learner Driver Insurance
This flexible option can cover anything from one day to several months. It's ideal for learners practising occasionally in a friend's or family member’s car. It sits alongside the main car insurance policy, meaning there’s no impact on the car owner’s no-claims discount.
2. Named Driver on an Existing Policy
Some parents choose to add the learner as a named driver on their existing policy. While convenient, this may affect the main policyholder’s no-claims bonus if / when a claim is made.
3. Specialist Learner Driver Policies
These are standalone policies tailored specifically for provisional licence holders. Many offer added flexibility and can often be switched to a full licence policy once the learner passes their test.
Key Considerations
- You must be supervised by someone over 21 years of age, who has held a full driving licence for a minimum of 3 years.
- Some policies only cover practice in daylight hours.
- You must display L plates whilst the vehicle is being driven by the learner (or D plates if you’re in Wales).
- Make sure the policy definitely covers test day, as not all policies do.
After you pass
Once you’ve passed your test, learner driver insurance is no longer valid. You will need to take out a new policy as a fully qualified driver. Our business is your protection, and this is something we can help arrange swiftly and competitively.
Need help choosing the right policy?
At TMD Insurance Group, we’re here to make the road to driving as smooth as possible. We offer tailored advice and can help you or your learner driver find the best cover for your needs.
Call us on 01992 703 000 or email: insurance@mcdonaghs.co.uk