Is it compulsory to have car insurance in the UK?

£300 fine

Fixed penalty

6–8 points

Penalty points

Unlimited

Court fine

12 months

Driving ban

The Short Answer

Yes, it is compulsory to have at least third-party car insurance in the UK if you drive or keep a vehicle on a public road.

What the Law Says

The Road Traffic Act 1988 makes it a legal requirement to have valid insurance before using a motor vehicle on roads or other public places in the UK.

Section 143 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 states that no person may use a motor vehicle on a road or other public place unless there is in force, in relation to the use of the vehicle, a policy of insurance or security complying with the requirements of this section.

This applies not only to drivers but also to anyone who keeps a vehicle — even if it’s not being driven. If a vehicle is kept on a public road (e.g., parked), it must be insured or declared off-road with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN).

The minimum level of cover required is third-party only — meaning it must cover injury or damage to other people, vehicles, property or animals. It does not need to cover damage to your own vehicle or personal injury to yourself.

Statutory Text
No person shall use a motor vehicle on a road or other public place unless there is in force in relation to the use of the vehicle a policy of insurance or security complying with the requirements of this section.
— Road Traffic Act 1988, s. 143 — Use of motor vehicles on roads etc. without insurance

What to Do

Ensure your vehicle has at least third-party insurance before driving or parking it on any public road.

If you’re not using the vehicle, declare it off-road with a SORN via the DVLA website.

Check your policy covers all drivers who may use the vehicle — named drivers only, unless it’s a 'driving other cars' extension (rare and limited).

Carry your insurance certificate or digital proof when driving — police can check instantly via the Motor Insurance Database (MID).

Renew your insurance on time — lapses count as uninsured use, even for one day.

Sources

statuteRoad Traffic Act 1988, s. 143 — Use of motor vehicles on roads etc. without insurance

Same Question, Other Jurisdictions

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.