Car insurance explained: types, legal minimum and add-ons
Where a link is marked * or labelled Ad, it is a partner advertisement: we receive commission at no extra cost to you. Links without a * or Ad label earn us nothing. How we make money.
Quick answer: UK law requires at least third-party motor insurance. Comprehensive cover adds fire, theft and damage to your own car. Price depends on your risk profile — age, postcode, car group, mileage and claims history — not just the cover level you choose.
Car insurance is mandatory but widely overpaid at renewal. Understanding cover types, excesses and optional add-ons stops you buying the wrong policy — or duplicating cover you already have on a packaged bank account.
Skip this if: Skip this page if you need a personal recommendation or a live quote. This is general UK information — confirm today's figures with the official source linked below.
Types of cover
Third-party only is the legal minimum. Third-party fire and theft adds protection for your car against fire and theft. Comprehensive adds accidental damage to your vehicle and usually includes windscreen and legal cover — yet can still be cheaper than lower tiers for some drivers because of how risk pools work.
Medical conditions, DVLA and your policy
If a health condition could affect safe driving you must tell DVLA — and you must answer insurer questions about it honestly. From 17 August 2026 car and motorcycle licence holders in Great Britain can check around 1,600 conditions and notify DVLA online, often faster than posting a form. Bus and lorry licences still use paper. Guide: telling DVLA about a medical condition online.
Telling DVLA does not tell the insurer. Non-disclosure can void a claim. A higher premium after a declaration is cheaper than paying an accident bill yourself. Fine for not telling DVLA: up to £1,000.
Common questions
Is comprehensive always more expensive?
No — comprehensive is sometimes cheaper than third-party because higher-risk drivers historically chose lower cover levels, skewing the risk pool.
Can I drive someone else's car on my policy?
Only if your policy explicitly includes 'driving other cars' — often third-party only and restricted to emergencies. Do not assume you are covered.
Do I have to tell my insurer about a medical condition if I told DVLA?
Yes. They are separate duties. Notify DVLA where GOV.UK says you must, then tell the insurer. Online DVLA notify (car and motorcycle, Great Britain) does not pass to insurers.