Australian? Want to insure a car in Britain for a short time?
If you've got an Australian driving licence and you're in the UK for a holiday, work assignment, or short-term study, you may find yourself needing a car, but:
- Car hire is expensive
- Annual UK insurance is hard to get
- Driving without valid insurance is illegal
Short-term car insurance lets you legally drive a borrowed car, with instant cover and no long-term commitment.
What Does UK Car Insurance Cover?
All drivers in the UK are required to have insurance to drive on a public road. Here's what you need to know:
Types of Cover:
- Third-Party Only – Covers damage to other people’s property and injury to others.
- Comprehensive – Includes third-party cover plus damage to the car you're driving, even if you're at fault.
Optional Add-ons:
- Roadside assistance
- Courtesy car
- Legal expenses cover
Why is short term car insurance different?
Unlike annual policies, short-term insurance is:
- Flexible – Cover from 1 to 84 days
- Accessible – Perfect for visitors borrowing a car
- Comprehensive – Includes damage, theft, and more
Many providers allow policy renewals, so you can extend your cover if needed.
What will you need, in order to apply?
To qualify, you must be aged between 25 and 70 and:
- Hold a full Australian driving licence
- Provide passport details and ID
- Have permission to drive the car (if borrowing)
- Ensure the car is registered and kept in the UK
Tip: A clean driving history often means lower premiums.
How doe it work?
- Arrive in the UK. Or get a frind in the UK to get quotes for you.
(Quotes usually can't be generated while you're still overseas. )
- Get Quotes Online
Your details are compared against a panel of trusted insurers.
- Choose Your Policy
Review the terms, select your cover, and buy online straight away.
Stay legal. Stay protected.
Whether you're visiting friends, exploring the countryside, or in the UK on business, short-term car insurance gives you the freedom to drive without worry. Get quotes now!
In Summary
If you're an Australian visiting the UK and planning to drive a borrowed car, short-term car insurance offers a fast, flexible, and legal way to get on the road. It's designed for visitors like you who don’t need annual cover but still want peace of mind and legal compliance whilst driving in the UK.
Cover can be arranged in minutes once you're here, and policies often include comprehensive protection and optional extras.
Still have questions? See our frequently asked questions.
