A driver using a borrowed car to attend a friend’s wedding, covered for a day.two

Can I Get Car Insurance For One Day?

A woman hiring a van to deliver event decorations, covered temporarily.

Life has a way of throwing up situations where you need a car for just a short time - a day trip, borrowing a friend’s car, or perhaps picking up a new set of wheels from the dealership. But what about insurance? Arranging a full annual policy for just 24 hours could be overkill, not to mention a costly faff. The good news is that one-day car insurance is a perfectly legitimate and convenient solution. But how does it work, and is it as simple as it sounds? Let’s look into the details so you can hit the road with confidence, even if it’s just for a day.

Is One-Day Car Insurance Available?

Yes, one-day car insurance is widely available and designed specifically for short-term needs. These policies provide comprehensive cover for a 24-hour period, ensuring you’re fully protected whilst driving. Whether you’re borrowing a friend’s car, sharing driving duties, or picking up a vehicle from a seller, this type of insurance is ideal for brief yet important use.


How Does One-Day Car Insurance Work?

One-day insurance policies function much like standard car insurance but with a far shorter duration. You provide the insurer with details such as:

  • The vehicle’s registration number and specifications.
  • Your personal details, including licence information and driving history.
  • The start and end time of the cover (usually a 24-hour window).

Once purchased, the policy becomes active immediately or at the specified start time, offering the same level of protection as an annual policy, including third-party liability and comprehensive cover for the insured vehicle.

What Do You Gain From One-Day Insurance?

One-day car insurance comes with several advantages:

  • Flexibility: Provides cover exactly when you need it, with no unnecessary commitments.
  • Comprehensive Cover: Typically includes full protection, ensuring you’re legally covered for any eventuality.
  • No Impact on Existing Policies: If you’re borrowing a car, your policy operates independently of the owner’s insurance.
  • Cost-Effective: Ideal for short-term needs, avoiding the expense of an annual policy.

What Should You Consider Before Buying?

Whilst one-day insurance is convenient, it’s important to review the details carefully:

  • Eligibility: Ensure you meet the insurer’s requirements, such as age limits or driving experience.
  • Vehicle Type: Check that the vehicle is eligible for cover, as some insurers exclude high-value or specialist cars.
  • Policy Terms: Understand the excess amounts and any limitations, such as mileage caps or exclusions.

How Do You Arrange One-Day Insurance?

Getting one-day car insurance is simple and can often be done online in just a few minutes. You’ll need the following information:

  • The car’s make, model, and registration number.
  • Your personal and licence details.
  • The time and date you want the cover to start.

Once you’ve provided this information, you’ll receive a quote, and you can confirm the policy if you’re happy with the terms.


Florist celebrating the ease of purchasing their van insurance policy for local deliveries.
Helping my sister move - fully insured for her car!

Is One-Day Insurance Suitable for All Drivers?

One-day car insurance is a great solution for many situations, but it may not be available to all drivers. Most insurers set minimum age limits (often 21) and require a clean driving record. Additionally, certain high-performance or luxury vehicles might be excluded. It’s advisable to check the insurer’s criteria before proceeding.

Summary and Conclusions:

One-day car insurance offers a practical and cost-effective way to get insured for short-term driving needs. Whether it’s a quick trip or an unexpected requirement, these policies are easy to arrange and provide the a sense of everything being buttoned up you need when borrowing or driving a car temporarily. By understanding the terms and choosing a reliable provider, you can hit the road knowing you’re fully covered.

Need flexible one-day car insurance? Click the button below to compare policies and find the perfect cover for your temporary driving needs. It’s fast, simple, and ensures you’re always driving legally and confidently.

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