Drivers

Young driver insurance explained

What young driver insurance is, why it costs more for drivers aged 17 to 25, what it covers, and the things that may help bring the cost down over time.

Young driver insurance is car insurance designed for young and inexperienced drivers, usually those aged between 17 and 25. Insurers see this group as a higher risk because of their limited driving experience, and that is reflected in what they charge.

What young driver insurance covers

Like any car policy, young driver insurance covers a range of risks that come with driving.

Road risks

This covers the car while it is being driven on public roads. Depending on the level of cover, it may include accidental damage, theft and fire.

Liability to others

This covers the policyholder if they cause injury to someone else, or damage to another person's property, while driving. Third party cover of this kind is the legal minimum for driving on UK roads.

Personal accident

This pays out if the driver, or in some policies a passenger, is seriously injured or killed in an accident.

Uninsured drivers

Some policies include extra protection if you are hit by a driver who has no insurance. In the UK, claims involving uninsured and untraced drivers are handled by the Motor Insurers' Bureau.

Why it costs more

Young driver insurance usually costs more than cover for older, more experienced drivers because the risk of an accident is seen as higher. Insurers may also set extra conditions, such as a higher excess, a black box that records how you drive, or limits on driving late at night.

Things that may help with the cost

It is worth looking at a few options before choosing a policy, and comparing them on the same level of cover and excess rather than on price alone. Over time, building up driving experience and keeping a clean record may help bring costs down. Some drivers also take further training after passing their test.

You can find out more on our young driver insurance page. You fill in a short form and a specialist broker from our panel contacts you about cover.