People preparing to borrow or lend a car in the UK

Borrowing a car

Can I borrow my partner’s car?

Living together, sharing bills or being married does not automatically give either of you cover to drive the other person’s car.

01

Named driver or separate policy?

If you use the car often, being properly added to the owner’s annual policy may make sense. For a one-off journey or a few days, temporary insurance can be considered. Compare what is actually covered rather than choosing on price alone.

02

Cars in the same household

Some Driving Other Cars extensions exclude vehicles owned by a spouse, civil partner or somebody living at the same address. This is exactly the sort of restriction that makes assumptions risky. Ask the insurer if the certificate is unclear.

03

Who is the main driver?

If the borrowed car gradually becomes the car you use most, tell the insurer. The named main driver should reflect reality. A policy arranged in your partner’s name mainly to obtain a cheaper premium can cause serious trouble if you are the person who usually drives.

04

Keep both cars properly dealt with

Check the tax, MOT and insurance position of each vehicle separately. If one car is kept off the public road and not used, the registered keeper may need to make a SORN rather than simply letting the insurance lapse.