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Driving a newly bought used car home
Insurance doesn't transfer with a used car. What you need in place before you drive a car you've just bought, and how to check it's live.
The seller's insurance doesn't come with the car
Cover belongs to the policyholder, not the vehicle. When you buy a used car you need your own cover in place before you drive it away.
Checking your cover is live
Once a policy starts, it should appear on the Motor Insurance Database. You can check a vehicle's insured status on the askMID website.
Tax does not transfer either: you need to tax the car in your name before driving it.
| Item | Transfers with car? |
|---|---|
| Insurance | No |
| Vehicle tax | No |
| MOT certificate | Yes, it stays with the car |
Questions
Can I use short-term cover just for the drive home?
Many people do, then arrange annual cover afterwards. Check the provider's eligibility rules first.
General information only, not advice. Check current rules on GOV.UK and your policy wording.