Are you a newly qualified driver ready to hit the road? Passing your test is a brilliant feeling, but the excitement can quickly fade when you see the cost of your first car insurance premium.
For new drivers, insurance is notoriously expensive because providers view you as a higher risk. But do not panic. At One Call Insurance, we want to help you get behind the wheel without breaking the bank. Here are our top tips for keeping those costs down, plus a look at a few of the best starter cars to help you secure a cheap car insurance policy.
5 Ways to Lower Your Car Insurance as a New Driver
1. Consider a Black Box Policy
Telematics, such as black box policies, are some of the most effective ways for young drivers to prove they are safe on the road. A small device is fitted to your car (or you use a smartphone app) to monitor your speed, braking, and cornering. If you drive carefully, your insurer will often reward you with a discounted premium.
2. Add an Experienced Named Driver
If a parent or older family member will drive your vehicle, adding them to your policy as a named driver can significantly reduce your premium. Because the more experienced driver will be behind the wheel for some of the time, the overall risk goes down. Just remember that you must be honest about who the main driver is. Putting an experienced driver as the main driver when you actually do most of the driving is called “fronting”, which is illegal and will invalidate your policy.
3. Adjust Your Voluntary Exces
Your excess is the amount you agree to pay towards a claim. By choosing a higher voluntary excess, you take on more of the financial risk, which usually results in a lower upfront price. Just make sure you set it at an amount you can actually afford to pay if you are involved in an accident.
4. Time Your Quotes Perfectly
If you can afford to pay your insurance premium in one lump sum, this can save you money in the long term. Paying monthly usually incurs interest and admin fees, making the overall cost of your cover much higher by the end of the year.
The Best Starter Cars for Low Insurance
Hyundai i10
The Hyundai i10 is frequently ranked as the absolute cheapest car to insure for new drivers. Entry-level 1.0-litre models sit proudly in Insurance Group 1. It is incredibly affordable to run, surprisingly spacious inside, and perfect for navigating tight city streets or learning to park.
Kia Picanto
A close relative of the i10, the Kia Picanto is another brilliant city car that looks a bit sportier. Most entry-level 1.0-litre versions sit in Insurance Groups 2 or 3. It is reliable, inexpensive to repair, and highly recommended for budget-conscious drivers.
Volkswagen Polo
If you want something slightly larger and more refined for motorway driving, the Volkswagen Polo is an excellent choice. While some models sit in slightly higher insurance groups, the entry-level 1.0-litre ‘Life’ trim falls into Group 3. It boasts fantastic safety ratings, a premium feel, and solid reliability for years to come.
Ready to Get on the Road?
Finding your first car is an exciting milestone, and securing the right insurance does not have to be a headache. By choosing a sensible starter car and using a few smart quoting tactics, you can easily shave hundreds of pounds off your premium.
If you are currently looking for coverage, why not see what we can do for you? Get a quick, no-obligation quote with One Call Insurance today to explore our new driver options and find a policy that fits your budget.
Data source:
- Association of British Insurers (ABI): Data regarding young driver collision statistics and motor insurance premiums.
- Thatcham Research: Information on the UK car insurance Group Rating System.
- Confused.com: 2026 Car Insurance Price Index and average premium costs.
