Why You Must Declare Convictions
Insurers assess risk based on your driving history, and motoring convictions are one of the clearest indicators of that risk. UK insurers require you to declare unspent convictions when applying for or renewing a policy, and continuing to do so accurately throughout the policy term.
Common Convictions That Must Be Declared
- Speeding offences (SP codes)
- Careless or dangerous driving (CD codes)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DR/DG codes)
- Driving without insurance (IN codes)
- Using a mobile phone while driving (CU codes)
- Failing to stop after an accident (AC codes)
Each conviction type has a corresponding code recorded on your driving licence, and insurers will typically ask you to provide these codes and the associated penalty points when applying for cover.
How Convictions Affect Your Premium
Severity and Points
More serious offences, such as dangerous driving or drink driving, generally have a bigger impact on premiums than minor speeding endorsements. The number of points and whether multiple offences are recorded also matters.
How Recently It Occurred
Convictions typically have a greater impact on premiums shortly after they occur, with the effect often reducing over time as the offence becomes older, though it must still usually be declared while unspent.
Finding Cover With Convictions
Mainstream insurers may still offer cover for drivers with minor convictions, though premiums will typically be higher. For more serious or multiple convictions, specialist convicted-driver insurers may offer more competitive terms, as they focus specifically on this type of risk.
When Convictions Become Spent
Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, many convictions eventually become "spent" after a set period, after which you are generally not required to declare them for most purposes, though insurance applications can have their own specific rules, so always check what your insurer requires.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Insurance with Convictions UK
Do I have to tell my insurer about all convictions?
You must declare all unspent motoring convictions relevant to your insurer's application questions. Always check exactly what's being asked and answer accurately.
Will a speeding conviction increase my premium?
Generally yes, though the impact is usually smaller than for more serious offences such as careless or dangerous driving.
Can I get insurance with a drink driving conviction?
Yes, though premiums are typically significantly higher, and specialist insurers may offer more suitable options than mainstream providers.
What happens if I don't declare a conviction?
This is treated as non-disclosure and can lead to a claim being reduced or refused, or the policy being cancelled or voided.
Do convictions ever stop affecting my insurance?
Many convictions become spent after a certain period under UK law, though insurance disclosure requirements can differ, so check your insurer's specific terms.
Conclusion
Declaring motoring convictions accurately is essential to keeping your car insurance valid. While convictions typically increase premiums, comparing mainstream and specialist insurers can help you find suitable, fairly priced cover that reflects your individual circumstances.
Explore More UK Insurance Guides
Discover insurance resources covering car insurance, home insurance, life insurance, travel insurance, landlord insurance, pet insurance, business insurance and van insurance.
Browse Insurance Guides