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Can I transfer my no claims bonus from motorbike or van to car?

If you’re considering a change of wheels from motorbike or van to a car, what will happen to your no claims bonus (NCB)? Find out what you need to know about transferring your NCB in our helpful guide.

 

 

If you’re considering a change of wheels from motorbike or van to a car, what will happen to your no claims bonus (NCB)? Find out what you need to know about transferring your NCB in our helpful guide.

 

 

Written by
Julie Daniels
Motor insurance expert
Reviewed by
Rebecca Goodman
Insurance expert
Last Updated
12 OCTOBER 2022
3 min read
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Can I transfer my no claims bonus from motorbike or van to car?

There isn’t a straightforward yes or no answer here. The transfer of a no claims bonus (NCB) or no claims discount (NCD) happens at your motorbike, van or car insurance provider’s discretion. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s certainly worth asking the question. Just be aware that your NCD can only be used on one vehicle at a time.

If the provider allows the transfer you might find that you don’t get the full NCD, but instead receive an introductory discount.

Typically, insurance providers will accept a no-claims history of up to nine years, to give you a discount on your premium. After that, the discount will most likely be capped, no matter how long you’ve been claim-free.

If you’re hoping to transfer your no claims bonus to a different vehicle, you’ll need to show your chosen insurance provider the no claims history on your policy or insurance certificate. Not all providers will accept a no claims discount for a different type of vehicle.

If you’ve had a gap in your driving history – typically two years – the provider might not accept a no claims bonus that you had beforehand. So it’s best to check with them whether the discount will still apply.

What’s the difference between a no claims bonus and a no claims discount?

There’s no difference. Both terms are used to describe the price reduction you can get on your car insurance if neither you nor anyone else claims on your policy. You’ll get more discount for every claim-free year, usually up to a limit.

Just be aware that if you make a claim on your car insurance, your premium could still go up at renewal time.

If you’re switching between insurance providers, your new provider will generally require written proof of your now claims discount.

Top tip 

You may find that some insurance providers who’ll accept the no claims discount on your bike or van may be more expensive than those that don’t, so it might not save you any money. That’s one of the reasons why it’s always worth comparing providers.

Can I transfer a car no claims bonus to a motorbike or van?

Some providers might be happy to do this, while others won’t – so check with the provider. But make sure you find the right insurance to suit your needs and don’t just base your decision on price or transferring your NCD.

Frequently asked questions

Can I transfer my no claims bonus to another person?

Not usually. A discount is typically offered as a reward for good driving, so it wouldn’t make sense to ‘hand it over’ to someone else whose claims history might not be as exemplary as yours.

That said, there’s a few providers who will allow you to transfer your no claims discount to your spouse or partner – but this is very much at the discretion of the individual provider.

Can I transfer my no claims bonus to more than one vehicle?

No, a no claims bonus can only be used on one vehicle at a time. And if your provider allows you to transfer your no claims to another vehicle, your bonus can only be used once.

Can I transfer a no claims bonus from overseas?

It depends on the insurance provider – some will let you transfer your no claims earned abroad when you move back to the UK. It’s something you’ll need to check when comparing UK car insurance policies.

Can I transfer my no claims earned driving a company car?

If you were the only driver of your company car and were covered for social, domestic and pleasure (SDP) as well as business use, then some providers might be willing to accept your no claims earned and offer a discount.

The insurance provider of your company car should be able to provide proof that you were the only driver and how many claim-free years you have.

How do I get proof of my no claims history?

Some insurance providers will automatically provide details of your no claims history on your renewal or cancellation notice. With others, you may need to contact them and ask for the information to be sent to you.

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Julie Daniels - Motor insurance expert

Julie is passionate about delivering a great customer experience and rewarding people for saving on their insurance through our loyalty and rewards programme. She’s spoken to the media, including outlets like Sky News and Capital FM, about car and home insurance, as well as our rewards scheme.

Learn more about Julie

Rebecca Goodman - personal finance expert

Rebecca Goodman is a freelance financial journalist who specialises in insurance, personal finance and consumer affairs. Rebecca regularly writes for national newspapers including The Independent and The Mail on Sunday on a wide-range of financial topics. She covers everything from money-saving tips and holiday advice to investigations into how energy efficient appliances can cut the cost of household bills and the impact donating money can have on those in need. Along with features in national papers, Rebecca also writes news stories for websites including Yourmoney.com and The Money Edit.

Learn more about Rebecca

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