Yes, you can get car insurance with a provisional licence, but it is typically more expensive and requires some specific steps. The key is to be listed as the primary driver on a policy, which is most commonly done by being added to a parent's or guardian's existing policy. While some major insurers will underwrite policies for provisional licence holders directly, you will likely need to shop around as not all companies offer this.
The primary reason for the higher cost is that insurers view new, inexperienced drivers as high-risk. Without a driving history, they have no data to assess your likelihood of filing a claim. Factors influencing your premium include your age, the type of car you'll be driving, where you live, and who your supervising driver is (their driving record can sometimes help lower the cost).
Here is a comparison of how different approaches typically work:
| Insurance Method | Typical Cost Implication | Key Requirements & Considerations |
|---|
| Added to Parent's Policy | Often the most affordable option; increases the parent's premium significantly. | You must live at the same address. The parent must own the car. You are a secondary driver. |
| Named Driver on a Friend's Policy | Can be cheaper than a standalone policy, but varies by insurer. | The friend must be the policyholder. Misrepresenting the main driver (fronting) is illegal. |
| Your Own Standalone Policy | The most expensive option; premiums are highest for new drivers. | Requires finding a specialist insurer. You are the policyholder and primary driver. |
| Specialist Provisional Licence Insurance | Short-term, flexible coverage often sold by the month. | Useful for learning in a car you own. Can be cost-effective for short periods. |
It is crucial to be completely honest on your application. "Fronting"—where a more experienced driver claims to be the main user of a car when a young, provisional licence holder is actually the primary driver—is considered insurance fraud. This can lead to a policy being voided, fines, and difficulty getting insurance in the future. Always declare that you hold a provisional licence and specify who your supervising driver will be.
