Drive away insurance

Buying a car is exciting, but you can't legally drive it home unless you have valid insurance in place – and that’s where drive away car insurance comes in.

It's a type of temporary car insurance, which can be handy when you need cover quickly but don’t want to commit to an annual policy straight away.

Most drive away policies offer comprehensive cover, although the level of protection can vary between insurers. As an added bonus, it's really flexible, so you only have to pay for the cover you need.

Even if you’re only driving your new car a few miles home, you’ll need valid insurance before you set off. Driving without insurance is illegal, and it’s not the kind of shortcut that’s worth taking.

If you’re caught driving uninsured, you could face:

• A fixed penalty fine 

• Six penalty points on your licence 

• Your car being seized, and in some cases destroyed 

• A possible driving ban if the case goes to court.

This depends on the policy you choose. The good news is that it’s very flexible, with the option to get cover anywhere from an hour up to 28 days.

For example:

To get a quote, it helps to have a few details ready before you start:

• Your driving licence details

• The car’s registration number

• When you want the cover to start and end

• Your driving history, including any claims or convictions

• Your years of driving experience

• Your no-claims bonus, if you have one.

Before setting off in your newly purchased car, make sure:

• Your insurance policy is active

• The vehicle is taxed

• The vehicle has a valid MOT if needed

• You've checked the policy documents

• You have permission to drive the vehicle

• You know when your temporary cover expires

• You’re not using the car for anything excluded, such as paid delivery work or towing.