Can I Drive Someone Else’s Car?

28/10/2022

A close-up image of a person handing over a car key to a friend

Last Updated: 01 Oct 2025
Read time: 3 minutes

Written by: Deirbhile Coyle
Insurance Writer

Written in line with our Editorial Guidelines

Can I drive someone else’s car on my insurance?

If you need to use someone else’s vehicle, unfortunately, not all insurance policies will allow you to drive another person’s car. You still need to have the appropriate insurance while on the road. Luckily, there are some options available for those who need to use someone else’s car to get around. We’ve gathered all the information you’ll need to know about insurance when driving someone else’s car

What insurance do I need to drive someone else’s car?

It is a common misconception that having a comprehensive policy means you’re fully covered to drive someone else’s car. In reality, most policies only provide third-party coverage when driving another person’s car. This means you will only have coverage for any damages you cause to other vehicles, but not the car you’re driving. In some cases, you may not even have third-party cover for driving other cars; in this case, you would be driving without insurance, and that comes with a whole host of other risks.

Am I covered to drive my partner’s car?

If you are driving a partner’s car, it is easy to have yourself included in their insurance policy. If you are both responsible drivers with a clean driving history and low-risk profile, your premiums will likely be unaffected. Having your partner or another family member add you to their policy as a named driver will ensure you’re covered to drive their car. This type of cover is only possible if you are not the main driver listed.

Don’t assume you are automatically covered; always double-check you are on each other’s policy before heading out on the road. If this option isn’t available and you still need to drive someone else’s car, you can also try the following insurance options:

DOC Insurance

If you’re using another person’s car where you don’t have the option to become a named driver, then things get a little more complicated. In your policy, you will need to look for a driving other cars clause (DOC). A DOC policy lets you drive another vehicle temporarily, even if you aren’t named as a driver on their insurance policy.

This coverage is meant to cover you whilst you drive another person’s car without being listed on their policy. However, the requirements are usually restricted to emergencies only. These include hospital visits, situations where you may be in danger, or when the car owner is no longer able to drive themselves.

You must check if this clause is included in your insurance policy, as you will be breaking the law if it isn’t.

DOC cover is third-party only, so if you have an accident, you will only be covered for any damage you cause to the other party’s car.

Temporary Car Insurance

Temporary car insurance is also another option available to you if you know you will be using someone else’s car for a prolonged period. You will get fully comprehensive cover for the other car for a period usually ranging from 1 to 28 days. You will be covered from the moment you take out the policy.

If you think you will be using someone else’s car for more than 28 days, you may need to be added to their insurance policy.

Any driver’s insurance

If you want to allow anyone to drive your vehicle, you can take out an any driver insurance policy. Usually, this type of policy permits you to list up to five different drivers to drive your vehicle. This kind of insurance is typically purchased by small businesses and is most commonly used by van owners.

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This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.