can a named driver drive someone else's car

[Emmett]

Yes, a named driver can typically drive someone else's car, but it's not an automatic right. The key factor is permissive use, meaning you have the explicit permission of the car's owner. However, the final authority rests with the car's insurance policy. Most standard auto insurance policies in the U.S. follow the car, not the driver. This means the vehicle's insurance is usually the primary coverage in the event of an accident, even if a permitted driver is behind the wheel.

But there are critical limitations. If the named driver is a frequent user of the vehicle, they should be added to the owner's policy to avoid coverage issues. Insurance companies may deny a claim if they determine the driver was using the car regularly without being listed. Furthermore, if the named driver has a poor record (e.g., a DUI or multiple tickets) or is specifically excluded from the owner's policy, coverage will almost certainly be voided.

The table below outlines common scenarios and their typical insurance outcomes.

Scenario	Do You Have Permission?	Driver's Insurance Status	Typical Insurance Coverage Outcome
Borrowing a friend's car for an errand	Yes	Valid License, Good Record	Owner's policy applies as primary coverage.
Regular use (e.g., borrowing a parent's car weekly)	Yes	Valid License	Owner's policy may deny claim; driver's insurance may be secondary or also deny.
Driver is listed as an "excluded driver" on owner's policy	Yes	Valid License	No coverage from the owner's policy.
Driver causes an accident, exceeds owner's policy limits	Yes	Has their own insurance	Owner's policy pays to its limits, driver's policy may cover excess.
Driver does not have owner's permission (theft)	No	Any	No coverage from the owner's policy.

The safest practice is to always get explicit permission and understand the terms of the car owner's insurance policy before driving. If you plan to drive someone else's car frequently, the best course of action is to be formally added as a driver on their policy.

[NaomiRose]

It's usually okay for a quick trip, like running to the store for a neighbor. But you absolutely must call your own insurance agent first to double-check. I did this before borrowing my brother's truck. My agent confirmed that my policy would act as secondary coverage if anything happened. It’s all about "permissive use." Just having a license isn't enough; the coverage comes from the car's owner. Don't assume—always make that call to be safe.