New Driver Insurance – According to Clarity Compare

Q: How long are you considered a new driver?

You’re typically classed as a new driver for your first 12 months after passing your test. However, insurers may still consider you a higher risk for up to two years — or until you build up a driving history and no claims record.

Q: What is the best insurance group for young drivers?

Cars in lower insurance groups (1–10) tend to be cheaper to insure, making them ideal for first-time drivers. Smaller, less powerful vehicles often fall into these groups and are a smart choice if you’re trying to keep premiums down.

Q: Can new drivers go on their parents’ insurance?

Yes — new drivers can be added as a named driver on a parent’s policy. This is often cheaper than taking out your own policy. However, the main driver must be the person who uses the car most — otherwise, it could be considered fronting, which is illegal.

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What type of car insurance do new drivers need?

When choosing new driver insurance, there are three main levels of cover to consider — each offering different levels of protection:

Third-party only

This is the minimum legal requirement to drive on UK roads. It covers damage or injury you cause to others, but it won’t cover repairs to your own vehicle. If an accident isn’t your fault, you may still be able to claim from the other driver’s insurance.

Third-party, fire and theft

This includes all the benefits of third-party cover, with added protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.

Comprehensive

Comprehensive insurance provides the highest level of cover. It protects you, your car, and others — even if you’re at fault. Surprisingly, it can sometimes be cheaper than lower levels of cover, making it a popular option for new drivers.

Is car insurance essential for new drivers?

Yes, car insurance is a legal must for all drivers in the UK — including those who’ve just passed their test. If you’re driving on public roads, you must have at least the minimum level of insurance in place.

Getting behind the wheel without insurance can result in serious consequences, such as hefty fines, penalty points on your licence, and even a driving ban. It can also make your future premiums more expensive.

New driver insurance isn’t a separate policy — it’s simply standard car insurance tailored for those who’ve recently passed. However, finding affordable first-time driver insurance can be challenging.

At Clarity Compare, we help you understand your options and compare policies to get the best possible deal as a new driver.

How much does car insurance cost for new drivers?

Car insurance for new drivers can be significantly more expensive than for experienced drivers — mainly due to limited driving history and a higher perceived risk. Your premium will depend on factors like your age, location, and the type of car you drive.
According to Clarity Compare data, 51% of drivers aged 17–24 could get a quote of up to £1,494.62 per year for their car insurance (March 2025). In contrast, 51% of drivers across all age groups were quoted less than £660.98 for comprehensive cover.
What’s the monthly cost for new driver insurance? When broken down monthly, 51% of young drivers between 17–24 were quoted under £124.55 per month (based on annual policy cost, excluding any interest on monthly instalments).
At Clarity Compare, we help you find the right policy at the right price — so you can start driving with confidence and peace of mind.

Who is eligible for learner driver insurance?

Eligibility criteria can vary between providers, but here’s a general guide to who and what typically qualifies for learner driver insurance:

We compare deals from some of the UK’s most trusted insurers to help you find a great price.

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Learner driver requirements:

Must hold a provisional UK driving licence
Be a permanent UK resident
Have no motoring convictions, penalty points, or disqualifications

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Vehicle requirements:

UK-registered and roadworthy, with a valid MOT
Must not be modified
Typically less than 40 years old
Valued under £40,000
Not a hire or rental vehicle

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How can new drivers get cheaper car insurance?

Car insurance for new drivers can be costly — but there are several smart ways to lower your premium and find a better deal. Here’s how to reduce the cost of your first-time car insurance:

1. Compare quotes

The most effective way to save is by shopping around. Use Clarity Compare to view quotes from a range of trusted providers and find the best value for your cover.

2. Choose a smaller, standard car

Vehicles with smaller engines and lower insurance groups tend to attract cheaper premiums. Avoid high-performance or modified cars.

3. Consider black box insurance

Telematics policies monitor how you drive using a device or app. Safer driving could lead to lower renewal premiums.

4. Add an experienced named driver

Including a parent or another experienced driver on your policy can help reduce costs. Just be sure the main driver listed is the one who drives the car most — otherwise, it could be considered insurance fraud (known as ‘fronting’).

5. Avoid modifications

Extras like spoilers, tinted windows, or alloy wheels can raise your premium. Stick to factory specs for lower costs.

6. Improve your vehicle’s security

Installing an immobiliser, alarm, or tracking device may reduce your premium — especially if your car becomes less of a target for theft. Check with your insurer before making changes.

7. Reduce your mileage

If you drive fewer miles, insurers may see you as a lower risk. Estimate your annual mileage accurately — and keep it down if possible.

8. Choose pay-as-you-go cover

If you’re not driving often, a pay-per-mile policy could offer better value — you’ll only pay for the distance you drive.

9. Pay annually

Paying your premium in one upfront payment is usually cheaper than monthly instalments, which often include added interest.

10. Opt for a higher voluntary excess

Agreeing to pay a higher excess if you make a claim can lower your premium. Just ensure it’s an amount you can afford if needed.

11. Take an advanced driving course

Completing a recognised course like Pass Plus can show insurers you’re a responsible driver, potentially unlocking cheaper insurance options.

Why compare first-time driver insurance with Clarity Compare?

At Clarity Compare, we make it easy for new and young drivers to find competitive car insurance that fits both your needs and your budget. We work with a wide range of trusted UK insurers to help you explore tailored options — all in one place.

When you compare with us, you’ll see policies side by side based on price, level of cover, optional extras, and whether you prefer monthly or annual payments. It’s a smart way to find affordable first-time driver insurance with confidence.

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Access a broad selection of policies from leading UK insurers. (Correct as of March 2025)

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51% of drivers aged 17–24 could receive quotes of up to £1,494.62 per year. (Based on Clarity Compare data, March 2025)

Frequently Asked Questions for First-Time Drivers

What car insurance add-ons can first-time drivers get?

New drivers can choose from a range of optional extras to enhance their cover. Popular add-ons include breakdown cover, courtesy car cover, personal accident protection, legal expenses, and key cover. These can offer extra peace of mind but may increase your premium — so compare carefully.

How long are you considered a new driver?

You’re typically classed as a new driver for your first 12 months after passing your test. However, insurers may still consider you a higher risk for up to two years — or until you build up a driving history and no claims record.

What is the best insurance group for young drivers?

Cars in lower insurance groups (1–10) tend to be cheaper to insure, making them ideal for first-time drivers. Smaller, less powerful vehicles often fall into these groups and are a smart choice if you’re trying to keep premiums down.

Can new drivers go on their parents’ insurance?

Yes — new drivers can be added as a named driver on a parent’s policy. This is often cheaper than taking out your own policy. However, the main driver must be the person who uses the car most — otherwise, it could be considered fronting, which is illegal.

What’s fronting?

Fronting is when someone falsely names a more experienced driver — like a parent — as the main driver of a car, when in fact the new driver uses it most. It’s a form of insurance fraud and can lead to policy cancellation, fines, or legal consequences.