For drivers who have no no-claims bonus, finding a suitable car insurance policy in the UK can feel daunting. While there is no single “best” insurer for everyone, some providers have products that are more flexible for drivers starting with zero discount or who have lost their previous bonus.
City Insurance
City Insurance offers options aimed at drivers without a no-claims bonus. They may accept evidence of claim-free driving from other vehicles or provide introductory pricing to help new drivers or those returning to the road. This can make premiums more manageable when starting with no discount.
LV= (Liverpool Victoria)
LV= is noted for customer service and tends to offer fair pricing for drivers without a bonus. While no discount is applied, LV= may provide policy features and optional extras that make initial cover more flexible and manageable, such as guaranteed repairs and support on claims.
Budget Insurance
Budget Insurance sometimes allows drivers to mirror claim-free periods from another vehicle, which can help if you have driving experience but no formal no-claims record in your name. This can reduce premiums for drivers without a bonus while recognising actual safe driving history.
Mainstream insurers
Major insurers like Aviva, Admiral, Direct Line, and AXA may provide cover for drivers without a no-claims discount, but premiums are usually higher. Some offer telematics or black-box policies that can reduce costs based on actual driving rather than past no-claims history. Policies may also include optional extras like breakdown cover or courtesy cars to add value beyond the premium.
Factors that can help
Even without a no-claims bonus, premiums can be more reasonable if you:
- Choose a car in a lower insurance group
- Use telematics or black-box insurance
- Provide evidence of previous claim-free driving where accepted
- Compare multiple insurers to find the best combination of cover and cost
The “best” insurer depends on your profile, vehicle, and circumstances. Comparing policies carefully ensures you get suitable cover and reasonable premiums despite starting with no no-claims history.