Whether you left Britain for business or pleasure, you’re likely to come back from time to time. When you return, how do you get around? You may rely on lifts or public transport, but both options may not be the most convenient for getting where you need to go.
If you’re lucky enough to have a car you can keep in the UK or are able to borrow a vehicle from a friend or family member, travelling while you’re in the country may be more straightforward. One thing you can’t afford to be without is the appropriate level of insurance.
Expat car insurance is a policy for people who live primarily outside of the UK but return for visits. Its flexibility allows you to legally drive on UK roads for a time of their choosing.
It also saves you paying out for an annual policy that is rarely used. It often works out more cost-effective to pay for the coverage you need while you are in the country. It can also be quicker and easier to obtain than an annual policy for a non-UK resident.
How do I get expat insurance?
All drivers on public UK roads need to be insured. Penalties for driving with inappropriate insurance include a £300 fine and up to six penalty points. If you’re only here for a few weeks or a month, you could consider expat car insurance.
Available from one hour to 28 days, this flexible and comprehensive level or coverage allows you to only pay for the time you need while you’re over, no matter what time of year you return.
Getting a quote is simple – and you’ll be sent it in under two minutes:
- Visit www.tempcover.com.
- Enter your registration number, vehicle and driver details.
- Get your quote.
- Agree to your declaration.
- Pay for your policy.
Am I eligible for expat temporary car insurance?
To get non–UK resident temporary car insurance from Tempcover, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have been a previous UK resident for a minimum of 10 years.
- You temporarily live at the residential address provided on the policy.
- You are currently living abroad.
- You are aged between 18 and 76.
- You hold a full UK, EU, EEC (or NI Licence).
Other exclusions may apply depending on a number of risk factors.
What else should I be aware of when driving back in the UK?
Once you’ve arranged your temporary expat car insurance, there are a number of other considerations when it comes to driving in the UK:
Make sure your licence is up to date
Check the expiry date of your driving licence before getting behind the wheel. If you’re caught with an out-of-date licence, you could be on the receiving end of a £1,000 fine. If it has expired, make sure you renew it before you return to the UK.
Verify your vehicle’s MOT and road tax
Make sure the car you’re planning to drive is taxed and has a valid MOT. Driving without tax can result in an £80 fine, which can increase to £1,000 (or five times the amount of tax owed, whichever is greater), if the case goes to court. Driving without a valid MOT can also land you with a fine of up to £1,000.
Remind yourself of the UK’s road rules
There are often changes made to the rules for driving on the UK’s roads and it’s worth planning ahead to keep on top of them. Check everything from speed limits (especially given the increasing number of 20mph roads) to the use of mobile phones while driving (potential penalty: £200 fine and six penalty points).
Plan your journeys and be aware of local traffic rules
Plan your route before setting off. If, for instance, you’re driving in London, make sure you pay the congestion charge (failure to pay this is a fine of: up to £180) and that your vehicle is compliant with the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) standards.
Anything else I should know about temporary expat car insurance?
We know how exciting it is to return to the UK and catch up with old friends and family, but you have to be aware of the legal requirements when it comes to driving on UK roads.
Our expat insurance gives you peace of mind when it comes to driving a car – whether borrowed or your own. Offering flexible coverage for short periods of time with quotes in under two minutes, this temporary car insurance gives you more time to double-check the latest driving laws so you can avoid costly fines and penalties.
Get a quote today or contact us for more information regarding expat car insurance.
Sources
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/motorists-reminded-of-the-importance-in-renewing-their-photocard-driving-licences
https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-insurance/driving-without-insurance
https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/vehicle-enforcement-policy/dvla-enforcement-of-vehicle-tax-registration-and-insurance-offences
https://www.gov.uk/using-mobile-phones-when-driving-the-law
https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge/penalties-and-enforcement
https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/leisureandtourism/datasets/monthlyoverseastravelandtourismreferencetables/current
