Motor insurance needs to be in force before the vehicle is driven on a public road. For a vehicle being collected, the relevant point is therefore the time at which the new keeper intends to drive it away.

How insurers commonly treat this

• A quotation can normally be obtained before collection; the policy start date and time determine when cover actually begins.
• If collection is delayed or brought forward, the insurer can confirm whether the start date or time can be amended.
• The policy confirmation or certificate records when cover begins; the wording should be checked before the journey starts.

What the quotation may ask for

Quotation forms use the information supplied to determine which insurers can offer cover and on what terms. Where the available answer does not accurately describe the circumstances, the insurer or comparison provider can clarify how that information is recorded.