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The short answer
New drivers usually pay more because they have no claims history and no no-claims bonus. For the first two years after passing, six penalty points means losing your licence. Accurate details, a realistic mileage, telematics cover and comparing several insurers are the honest ways to bring the cost down.
Why first policies cost more
Insurers price on risk and history. A newly qualified driver has no record of claim-free years, so there is no no-claims bonus to discount the premium, whatever your age.
- Your no-claims bonus starts building from your first full policy year.
- Years as a named driver on someone else's policy usually do not count as your own bonus, though some insurers recognise them.
The two-year probation rule
Under the New Drivers Act, if you reach six or more penalty points within two years of passing your test, your licence is revoked and you must reapply for a provisional licence and pass both theory and practical tests again.
- Points from before you passed can count towards the six if they are still valid.
- Any conviction must also be declared to your insurer.
Ways new drivers can reduce the cost
There is no shortcut that beats accurate information and comparison. These options can help, depending on the insurer.
- Black box (telematics) policies price on how you actually drive.
- A car in a low insurance group usually costs less to cover.
- Paying annually avoids interest charged on monthly instalments.
- A higher voluntary excess can lower the premium, but only choose one you could afford to pay.
Named drivers and fronting
Adding an experienced driver to your policy can sometimes lower a quote. But the person who drives the car most must be the main driver. Putting a parent down as main driver when the new driver uses the car most is called fronting: it is fraud and can leave you with no valid cover.
- Be honest about who drives most.
- Read our named drivers guide before adding anyone.
Before you decide
- Keep under six points for two years after passing.
- Declare every driver and how often they drive.
- Compare black box and standard quotes side by side.
Frequently asked questions
How long are you a new driver for insurance?
Insurers treat you as inexperienced until you build a claims history, and the legal probation period lasts two years from passing your test.
Can a new driver be the main driver on a parent's policy?
Yes, if they are listed honestly as the main driver. Naming the parent as main driver when the new driver uses the car most is fronting, which is illegal.
Is black box insurance worth it for new drivers?
It can be, if you can live with the monitoring and any conditions. Compare the full terms, not just the price.
Sources and further reading
Prepared by CompareDirect using the sources above. Policy eligibility, cover and claims depend on the provider’s current documents and your circumstances.
Before you buy
Our car insurance listings compare provider features and quote destinations, not personalised premiums. Check the exact product, eligibility, excesses and full terms on the provider’s website. Nothing here is a personalised insurance recommendation.