What is over 50s car insurance?

Over 50s car insurance is all about giving experienced drivers cover that fits their lifestyle. You still get the usual options, whether that’s third party, third party fire and theft, or fully comprehensive, plus the common extras like legal cover, breakdown cover and key protection.

Being over 50 can have its perks when it comes to insurance. With years of safe driving behind you, fewer miles on the clock, and a careful approach to the road, premiums are often more affordable.

Some over 50s policies go further, offering extras you don’t usually get with standard cover, such as onward travel if your car is off the road, extended European cover for big trips, and the reassurance that someone else can take the wheel if you feel unwell. Together, these benefits help protect you, your car and your passengers so you can enjoy the drive with confidence.

What are the benefits of getting over 50s car insurance?

Getting car insurance tailored for drivers over 50 isn’t just about having cover, it’s about having cover that fits your lifestyle and priorities. These policies often go beyond the basics to give extra reassurance on the road.

Some of the benefits this type of policy can bring you include:

Tailored protection

Some policies let you nominate another driver if you feel unwell, and offer onward travel if your car is damaged.

Travel abroad with confidence

Extended cover is often included for driving in most European countries, sometimes for up to 180 days depending on your policy.

Onward travel in the UK

If your car is too damaged to drive after an accident, certain policies arrange a taxi to get you to your destination.

These features are designed to help keep you, your car, and your passengers looked after so you can enjoy driving with confidence, whether at home or abroad.

What are my options for over 50s car insurance?

As with standard car insurance, over 50s policies fall into three main types, each offering different levels of cover. From basic protection for other people and their property, to more complete cover for your own car too.

Third-party insurance

This is the most basic type of cover and protects you if you cause damage to other people or their property. It won’t cover any damage to your own car, but it meets the legal requirement for driving on UK roads.

Third-party, fire and theft

This level of cover includes everything third-party insurance offers, plus protection if your car is damaged by fire or stolen. It’s a step up in security and can offer extra peace of mind.

Fully comprehensive insurance

This is the most complete option, covering damage to your own car as well as other people’s property, alongside fire and theft protection. Some policies may also include added benefits like windscreen cover or roadside assistance.

Of course, the specifics of your insurance will vary depending on the insurer and the level of cover you choose. Comparing policies is the best way to make sure you get protection that suits both your car and how you like to drive.

What does over 50s car insurance cover?

What’s included with over 50s car insurance will depend on the insurer and the level of cover you choose. Some policies offer fully comprehensive cover as standard and include a range of added protections.

As an example, one leading insurer includes the following as part of its over 50s fully comprehensive policy:

  • Accidental damage and vandalism: Damage to your car or accessories is covered, whether repaired, replaced or paid out if written off.

  • Fire and theft: Cover if your car or accessories are damaged or lost due to fire, explosion, lightning, theft or attempted theft.

  • Uninsured driver protection: If an uninsured driver hits you and you’re not at fault, you usually keep your no-claims discount and avoid paying an excess.

  • Misfuelling cover: If you accidentally drive after using the wrong fuel, repairs and tank flushing are covered, with the excess payable.

  • European driving cover: Drive in EU countries for extended periods each year, often at the same level as your UK cover.

  • Vandalism protection: Claim for deliberate damage without losing your no-claims discount, although an excess may apply.

  • Child car seat replacement: Child car seats may be replaced after an accident, even if no visible damage is found.

  • Lost or stolen keys: Some policies cover replacing locks and keys if yours are lost or stolen.

Optional extras

Car insurers usually let you add optional extras to your policy for an additional premium, such as:

  • Protected no-claims discount: Lets you keep your no-claims bonus even after making a claim, helping you save on future premiums.

  • Motor legal protection or personal accident cover: Help with legal costs or injury-related expenses.

  • Breakdown cover: Roadside assistance and vehicle recovery if your car breaks down.

  • Courtesy car: A guaranteed hire car while yours is being repaired.

  • Extended personal accident cover: If you, your partner, or a named driver are seriously injured while in your car, you’ll receive an even higher payout with this cover in place.

Some policies may include extras like breakdown cover or a courtesy car as part of the package, while others might offer them for an additional cost. When comparing prices, check exactly what is included so you know whether you are getting good value and have all the cover you need.

Choosing the right add-ons can make your policy even more water-tight, protecting you from unexpected costs and hassle.

What does over 50s car insurance not cover?

What isn’t covered by over 50s car insurance will depend on the insurer and the level of cover you choose. Always check the policy wording carefully, as exclusions can vary from one provider to another.

As an example, one leading insurer offering fully comprehensive cover as standard on over 50s car insurance does not include the following:

  • Unlisted drivers: Anyone not named on the policy will not be covered to drive the car.

  • Other vehicles: Damage to any vehicle you’re driving that isn’t the one insured on the policy.

  • Key-related thefts: Theft claims may be declined if the car was left unlocked, running or with the keys inside.

  • Breakdowns: Mechanical or electrical failures are not covered by car insurance.

  • Previously written-off vehicles: Cars classed as Category A or Category B write-offs are excluded.

  • Converted vehicles: Campervans, motorhomes and vehicles converted for sleeping or cooking are not covered.

  • Certain manufacturers and modifications: Vehicles made by specialist camper manufacturers, or those fitted with features like pop-top roofs, beds, or cooking facilities, are excluded.

This isn’t a full list, and exclusions will vary by policy. Comparing insurers and reviewing the fine print is the best way to understand exactly what is and isn’t included in your cover.

How much does over 50s car insurance cost?

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), in the second quarter of 2025 (April - June), the average cost of car insurance in the UK was approximately £562. That’s down from £622 in the same quarter of 2024. Whilst this figure covers both comprehensive and third-party premiums, comprehensive policies are surprisingly often the cheapest option despite offering the highest level of cover.

The great news is that according to MoneyHelper, age really does make a difference to your car insurance bill, with drivers around age 55 enjoying the cheapest premiums!

Exactly how much your premium will be will depend on a number of factors, including these:

  • Your age and experience: Older drivers often pay lower premiums.

  • Your job: Some jobs mean more time on the road or in higher-risk areas, which can bump up your premium. Be accurate when you list your occupation, as it can make a difference.

  • Amount of excess: Choosing a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, but it means paying more yourself if you make a claim.

  • Type of car: Insurers look at how expensive, powerful and desirable your car is, plus how safe and reliable they think it will be. Bigger engines usually mean higher costs, and cars that are often targeted by thieves can raise your premium too.

  • Your postcode: Urban areas with higher traffic or theft rates typically have higher premiums, in addition to living in an area prone to flooding.

  • Modifications: Expensive speakers and in-car entertainment systems can make your car more attractive to thieves, which may increase your insurance costs. Performance upgrades can also bump up premiums.

  • How often you drive: Using your car daily, especially for commuting, usually costs more than just driving occasionally.

  • Car insurance group: Cars are placed into insurance groups (1–50) based on factors like repair costs, safety features and performance. The higher the group, the more you’ll usually pay.

How to find cheaper over-50s car insurance premiums

Insurance for drivers aged 50+ can already be lower due to the experience you bring to the roads, but there are plenty of ways to make it even more manageable. Here are some tips on ways you may be able to bring down the cost of insurance:

  • Compare quotes: Shopping around with different providers can help you find a better deal - and that’s true every time your policy comes up for renewal.

  • Pick a smaller car: Choosing a car with a modest engine and standard features can help you achieve a lower premium.

  • Boost your security: Parking overnight in a secure place and adding an immobiliser or alarm makes your car less appealing to thieves and could help bring down the cost.

  • Pay annually: Paying an annual premium often works out cheaper in the long run than paying monthly.

  • Consider a higher excess: Offering to pay a bit more if you need to claim can lower your premium – just make sure you can afford the excess.

Car insurance guides

Answering your questions about over 50s car insurance

Compare more types of car insurance cover

You might also be interested in