What happens if I drive without insurance?
Driving without insurance (IN10) is an 'Absolute Offence'. This means reasons like 'I thought I was covered' or 'It was an emergency' generally do not work as a defense. The police use ANPR cameras to spot uninsured cars instantly.
1 The Typical Timeline
If you take no action, this is the standard statutory process. Timescales are approximate but typical for 2026.
Police Stop / Seizure
Police seize the car immediately (Section 165A). You remain at the roadside.
Impound Reclamation
You have 7 days to produce valid insurance and pay fees (£150+ recovery + £20/day) to get the car back. Otherwise, it is crushed.
Fixed Penalty Notice
You receive the offer: £300 + 6 points. If you reject it, you go to court.
2 Free Calculators & Checks
Hit by an uninsured driver? Check what you can claim from the Motor Insurers' Bureau.
Uninsured Driver Claim Checker
Select your situation:
Points Calculator: Will you lose your license? (Especially New Drivers).
Penalty Check
Likely Penalty
Are you accidentally uninsured? Check 'Fronting' and 'Delivery Driving' risks.
Are you accidentally uninsured?
The Penalties
The standard fixed penalty is £300 and 6 penalty points. If specific aggravating factors exist (e.g. giving false details), it goes to court where fines are unlimited.
Special Reasons
While 'I didn't know' is not a defense, you can argue 'Special Reasons' to avoid points. Example: Your insurance company cancelled the policy without telling you (and you can prove it).
Summary of Options
Check AskMID
Not sure? Check the sheer 'askMID' database immediately to see if your car shows as insured.
Impound Insurance
To get a seized car back, you need special 'Impound Insurance' (standard policies won't cover a car in a pound). It is expensive.
Common Questions
Reference: I was just driving to the shops for my mum.
It doesn't matter. You need valid insurance for YOUR use of the vehicle.
I have comprehensive cover on my own car, can I drive others?
Check your certificate! This 'Driving Other Cars' (DOC) extension is becoming rare and usually only covers Third Party. It rarely applies if you are under 25.
Will I lose my license?
If you have held your full license for less than 2 years, YES. 6 points triggers immediate revocation under the New Drivers Act.
Does it go on my criminal record?
IN10 is a non-recordable offence, so it doesn't usually appear on a standard DBS check, but it stays on your driving license for 4 years.
Can I claim if an uninsured driver hits me?
Yes, via the MIB (Motor Insurers' Bureau). Use the tool above to value your claim.
Official Sources & References
Related Situations
Other guides accurately explaining what happens next in fines & penalties .
What happens if I ignore a County Court claim form?
Ignoring a court claim is the fastest way to get a CCJ. You lose the right to defend yourself and the creditor can use bailiffs or take money from your wages immediately.
What happens if I'm taken to court for debt?
A Court Claim (CCJ) is serious, but you have 14 days to respond. Ignoring it guarantees you lose.
What happens if I don't pay my TV licence?
It is a criminal offence, but it is not a 'recordable' one. You face a fine of up to £1,000 (plus costs), but you CANNOT go to prison just for not paying.