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Insurance basics

What can I use as proof of no-claims discount?

Changing insurer is usually straightforward, but the new company may ask you to prove your no-claims discount. The easiest evidence is normally something issued by your previous insurer showing your name and the number of years earned.

Car keys and paperwork laid out on a map beside a parked car

Many insurers include the number of claim-free years on a renewal notice, cancellation letter or separate proof document.

The new insurer may verify it electronically

Some insurers can confirm no-claims history without asking you to upload anything. Don't assume that means you can estimate the number of years; give the figure you can support.

Named-driver experience is different. Years spent as a named driver do not automatically count as a standard no-claims discount. Some insurers give recognition for named-driver experience, but that is their own underwriting decision.

Overseas history can need extra evidence

If your claim-free driving was with a non-UK insurer, ask what documents and translations the new insurer will accept before buying.

Deal with mismatches quickly

If the old insurer says five years and you entered six, tell the new insurer. A small correction is usually easier to resolve before a claim than afterwards.

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