At a glance
Standalone learner driver insurance is separate from the car owner’s policy and protects their no-claims bonus
Short-term learner policies can be cost-effective if you’re close to taking your test
Being a named driver can affect the main driver’s premiums
Compare quotes to find the right option for you.
What is learner driver insurance?
Learner driver insurance is a separate, temporary policy that covers you while driving your own car or someone else’s with their permission.
It’s designed specifically for people with a provisional licence, so you can practise in a private vehicle, as long as a qualified driver supervises you.
If you take out standalone learner insurance, it won’t affect the car owner’s main policy, even if you make a claim. It gives you independent cover and their no-claims bonus stays protected.
Alternatively, being added as a named driver means you’re included on someone else’s standard car insurance policy. You’ll be insured to drive their car, but it’s under their policy and any claim you make could affect their no-claims discount.
Get a quoteCan I be both a named driver and have learner insurance?
Not on the same car. You can either be covered as a named driver under someone else’s policy or take out your own learner insurance.
You could, however, be a named driver on one car and hold a separate learner policy for another. Just make sure each policy clearly lists the correct vehicle.
Can I drive anyone’s car with learner driver insurance?
No, you'll only be covered for the specific car named on your policy, and you’ll need the owner’s permission to drive it.
You must always be supervised by a qualified driver who meets the policy rules. If you want to practise in more than one car, you’ll need separate cover for each.
Can learner driver insurance be used for my driving test?
Yes, most learner driver insurance policies cover you for the driving test itself, if you’re using the same car you practised in.
However, if you’re using a friend or a family member’s car, double-check your learner insurance policy includes cover for the test.
If you're exclusively practising with a qualified driving instructor in their car, you won't need insurance. Instead, you'll be covered by the instructor's insurance.
Learner driver insurance vs named driver insurance
Standalone learner driver insurance can be a good idea if you'll only be practising occasionally, outside of your usual driving lessons with an instructor.
Policies are flexible and you won't need to worry about affecting someone else's insurance premium or their no-claims bonus if you were to have an accident.
Named driver insurance can be a convenient option if you're going to practise in a family member's car regularly and they're happy to add you to their existing policy.
The best choice for you will depend on your individual circumstances. The costs of either option can vary significantly, so it's best to compare deals to see which might be right for you.
Start a car insurance quoteWhat happens after I pass my driving test?
Once you pass your test, your learner driver insurance will expire immediately.
You can’t continue driving on a learner policy, even for a short distance, so you’ll need to set up new insurance cover.
If you’re using your own car for the test and you pass, you’ll need somebody else (for example, a parent or your instructor) to drive you home afterwards.
If you’re taking the test in your instructor’s car, they’ll drive you home once it’s over.
Comparing quotes could help you find a policy that fits your new driving status and budget.
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With more than eight years’ experience in writing and sub-editing content, Karen started her career in fashion before making the move to insurance. She now specialises in producing clear, engaging content that helps people make better financial decisions.
Karen’s areas of expertise include insurance products, such as car insurance, travel insurance and life insurance, as well as utilities such as energy comparison.
Stephen Maunder is an experienced personal finance editor, having spent more than a decade working for consumer print and online titles. He won several industry awards for his personal finance features at Which?, before becoming Deputy Editor at Compare the Market.
Amy helps make sure you get the best value when choosing insurance. Thanks to more than four years’ experience at Compare the Market, she understands what people look for, working closely with insurance providers to offer you deals and services that are fair, easy to understand and right for your needs.
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