Temporary Car Insurance Explained

Driving

4 min read

There are times when you may need to borrow or lend a car for a short period. Maybe you are helping a friend move house, sharing a long drive, or borrowing a car while yours is being repaired.  

In these situations, temporary car insurance could be a practical and flexible solution. 

What is temporary car insurance? 

Temporary car insurance is a standalone policy that provides comprehensive cover for a short period of time, from as little as one hour up to 28 days.  

It allows you to drive a car legally without being added to the owner’s main policy. 

This type of insurance is entirely separate from the car’s existing policy, which means the main driver’s no claims bonus is protected even if you make a claim on your temporary policy. 

Temporary car insurance can be arranged at short notice, making it ideal for last-minute plans or unexpected situations.  

When might I need temporary car insurance? 

There are many reasons why you might need temporary car insurance: 

• Borrowing a car: If your own vehicle is being repaired or serviced 
• Sharing long journeys: When taking turns to drive on holidays or business trips 
• Test driving a car: When buying or selling a vehicle privately 
• Student use: When driving a family car during holidays or weekends home from university 
• Emergencies: If you need to drive someone to hospital or move a vehicle unexpectedly 

One of the key benefits of temporary car insurance is its flexibility, which means it can suit many different situations. 

What are the other benefits of temporary car insurance? 

Temporary car insurance has several other benefits, especially for drivers who need short-term flexibility. 

It's quick and easy to arrange 

Cover can be set up online in just a few minutes.  

There's no need to adjust the existing policy or contact the main insurer, which saves time and avoids disruption. 

Fully comprehensive cover 

Most temporary policies offer comprehensive protection, covering you for damage to your car and others in an accident, as well as theft and fire. 

It protects the owner’s policy 

Because temporary cover is separate, the car owner’s main insurance and no claims bonus will not be affected if you need to make a claim. 

Flexible duration 

You can choose how long you need the cover, from a single hour to several weeks. 

Once the chosen period ends, the policy expires automatically, so there is no need to cancel it and there won’t be any unexpected charges. 

Ideal for a range of drivers 

Temporary car insurance can be suitable for drivers aged 18 or over who hold a valid licence and meet the insurer’s criteria.  

This can include both experienced motorists and younger drivers who need occasional access to another car. 

Does temporary car insurance affect my main policy? 

No, temporary car insurance operates separately from any existing policy.  

If you take out a short-term policy, it will not impact the main driver’s no claims discount or your own. 

However, it is always worth checking the details before you drive. You should confirm that the car owner’s existing policy allows other drivers to use the vehicle and that your temporary cover is active before starting your journey. 

If you’re unsure what level of cover you need, AbbeyAutoline’s team can guide you through your options and make sure you’re properly protected. 

What is not covered by temporary car insurance? 

Temporary car insurance may not be available for every driver or vehicle. Typical exclusions can include: 

• Cars not registered in the UK 
• Vehicles used for hire or reward purposes 
• Drivers who do not hold a valid UK or EU driving licence 
• Cars that are too old, too new, or of very high value  

Always read your policy documents carefully or speak to your broker to understand what's included and what isn’t. 

In summary 

Temporary car insurance provides a quick, simple, and flexible way to get behind the wheel for a short time. 

It can be ideal for borrowing a car, sharing long trips, or covering unexpected journeys without affecting another driver’s policy. 

If you would like to find out more about temporary car insurance or arrange cover today, speak with one of our expert team members on 08000 66 55 44 or get a quote online.