# What car insurance is compulsory in the UK?

> Quick answer · Last updated 4 July 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-compulsory-car-insurance-uk/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/what-is-compulsory-car-insurance-uk.md

## In short

At least third-party motor insurance — covering injury and property damage to other people. Driving without it is illegal and can mean a fine, points and seizure of the vehicle.

Third-party fire and theft and comprehensive are optional higher cover levels — comprehensive is not mandatory.

The Continuous Insurance Enforcement scheme means uninsured vehicles can be fined even when not driven on public roads unless SORN declared.

See car insurance explained for cover types.

## Related

- [Car insurance explained](https://moneyguide.org.uk/cars-motoring/car-insurance-explained/)
- [Compare car insurance](https://moneyguide.org.uk/cars-motoring/compare-car-insurance-guide/)

## Primary source

gov.uk/vehicle-insurance

---

Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.