What are the rules for driving other cars?

If you have driving other cars cover, this means you have third party cover only. So if you have an accident while driving someone else's car (with their permission), this means you are insured for the damage caused to others – this is what’s called a third party claim. You won't be insured for any damage to the car you're driving.

The car you want to drive must be already insured elsewhere by a separate insurance policy and can’t be owned by you as the policyholder, or your spouse, partner*, employer or business partner.

As the policyholder, you can't be hiring the car under a hire purchase or lease agreement.

You must also have a valid driving licence, not be disqualified from driving or breaking the conditions of your licence. The car you want to drive must be registered in Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

You're not covered for driving other cars cover:

• For test drives.
• If you don't have the main vehicle on your policy because it's been sold, stolen, damaged beyond repair or declared a total loss. 
• For courtesy or hire cars.
• To retrieve a vehicle from an impound.
• To drive anywhere outside Great Britain, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands.

*By 'partner' we mean a husband, wife, civil partner or a person who lives with you on a permanent basis at the same address, sharing financial responsibilities, as if you were married to them.