Can I drive another car with fully comprehensive insurance? 

When it comes to car insurance, there is often some confusion regarding what each type of policy covers, the differences between policies and what you are and aren’t allowed to do once you’re insured.  

Fully comprehensive car insurance is typically considered the most extensive type of motor insurance you can purchase in the UK. However, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with its limitations and exclusions. 

One of the questions many people ask about fully comprehensive car insurance is whether they are legally able to drive another car that they are not directly insured on.  

In this article, we’ll help you better understand fully comprehensive insurance, what it includes and its limitations, and we’ll answer the question, can I drive another car with fully comprehensive insurance? 

Continue reading or click on the links below to jump to a relevant section:   

• What is fully comprehensive motor insurance? 
• What’s usually included in a policy? 
• Does fully comp cover have any exclusions? 
• Can I drive another car with fully comprehensive insurance? 
• Where can I find a policy that’s suitable for me? 

What is fully comprehensive motor insurance? 

As previously mentioned, fully comprehensive car insurance, otherwise known as ‘fully comp’, is the highest level of car insurance available, offering the most extensive protection compared to other policies like third-party or third-party, fire and theft insurance. This particular type of policy covers damage to both your own vehicle and others, even if you’re at fault in an accident. 

Therefore, it not only covers a wider range of potential risks but also provides peace of mind knowing you’re fully protected 

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Also see: Is fully comprehensive car insurance worth it?

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What’s usually included in a policy? 

This type of policy typically includes protection for accidents, theft, fire, vandalism and often even windscreen damage. It may also cover medical expenses for injuries that you or your passengers sustain. And, in addition, some insurers offer extras like roadside assistance, a courtesy car during repairs or legal cover. 

Typically, drivers choose fully comprehensive insurance for its broad range of protection, ensuring peace of mind against a wide range of risks. However, when you do select a policy, it’s essential to review it carefully as coverage can vary between providers, and optional add-ons may be available for extra protection. 

Does fully comp cover have any exclusions? 

While fully comprehensive car insurance does offer extensive coverage, there are still some limitations and exclusions you should be aware of before purchasing a policy: 

• Excluded driver behavior: Accidents that occur while driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or without a valid license. 
• High-risk drivers and vehicles: If you have a history of frequent accidents or drive a high-performance vehicle, you may face increased premiums or find that certain claims aren’t fully covered. 
• Overseas driving: Your policy might not provide the same level of coverage if you drive abroad regularly, and you may need additional insurance for international travel. 
• Usage restrictions: If the vehicle is used for business or commercial purposes without being explicitly covered, your policy may not apply. 

And, while this should give you a better idea of what you can expect from a policy to ensure full protection, always review the policy details to understand any potential exclusions that could impact your coverage as these will differ depending on the provider. 

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Also see: Will I be accepted for car insurance?

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Can I drive another car with fully comprehensive insurance? 

Since policies can differ so greatly, there is no simple answer to this question.  

Having fully comprehensive motor insurance does not automatically guarantee you will be covered to legally drive other vehicles. However, some policies do offer DOC coverage (drive other cars cover).  

DOC coverage means that you can legally drive other vehicles providing your own insurance is in date. However, the coverage you have for other vehicles is typically only third-party coverage, meaning you’re only covered for damage to another vehicle and injury to another driver, pedestrian or passenger. Third-party only doesn’t cover the vehicle you’re driving or injuries to the driver.  

It should also be noted that to use DOC coverage to drive another car, it must be in the case of an emergency, the vehicle itself must be insured by its owner (you can not drive an uninsured vehicle, even with DOC coverage) and named drivers on your policy are not covered by DOC insurance.  

Where can I find a policy that’s suitable for me? 

With the right guidance, getting fully comprehensive car insurance can be a straightforward process, with plenty of options available through well-known insurers, brokers and comparison websites. 

However, to help you make the right decisions, here are a few tips to make sure you purchase the right policy: 

• Compare providers: Use comparison sites to explore different insurers, looking at pricing, coverage options and available add-ons. 
• Review the details: Pay close attention to the terms and conditions, focusing on any exclusions or limits that might impact your coverage. 
• Match your needs: Think about what additional features you might need, like breakdown cover or a courtesy car, and make sure your policy includes them. 

And, if you’re ready to start comparing car insurance policies, head over to our Motor Insurance Comparison page. It’s simple and helps you find the perfect policy at the best price.