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Direct Line Car Insurance FAQs

Q: I've been a named driver on someone else’s policy for a few years - does that entitle me to a no claims discount if I start my own?

A: A spouse/partner may qualify for a second car introductory discount-subject to certain criteria being met. If not, we can usually give you an introductory discount if you are fault claim free for the last 3 years.

Q: Can I pay by instalments?

A: Yes, subject to our normal instalment criteria.

Q: What is your cancellation procedure including refunds? Secondly what happens if I cancel having paid in full?

A: In order to cancel your Motor policy, Direct Line would require you to send the Certificate of Motor Insurance along with a covering letter to our office confirming cancellation. Once we receive the Certificate, Direct Line can then cancel your policy and calculate the refund from the date we receive the certificate. THIS IS PROVIDED NO CLAIM (THAT WOULD NORMALLY AFFECT NO CLAIMS BONUS) HAS ARISEN SINCE INCEPTION OR LAST RENEWAL DATE, THE REFUND WILL BE ON THE FOLLOWING BASIS: a) Policy in force over 12 months -pro rata. b) Policy in force less than 12 months -pro rata + 1 month. Should you have any queries please contact the Direct Line helpline on 0845 246 8701. Having paid an annual premium, if the policy is cancelled prior to renewal date, a partial refund would be made (provided no claims have been made during the period of cover). Alternatively, if you do buy a new car and contact us, we offer a substitution of cover for good customer service and for you to maintain the same renewal date.

Q: Can I temporarily add a driver to my motor insurance?

A: Yes, give us a call with full details of the additional driver and we will add the driver for you. The charge will be dependent on the details of the risk.

Q: Do you offer a courtesy car in the event of an accident?

A: If you purchase the Guaranteed Hire Car cover option, we will provide you with a car for up to 14 days after yours becomes unusable due to a claim (excluding windscreen damage). Unlike many companies' courtesy car services, this applies when your car has been stolen or written off.

Q: Do the years I've spent driving a company car count towards my NCD (no claims discount)?

A: If you are over 21 years of age and have had no accidents or claims then an introductory discount would apply to your quotations.

Q: How much is first time car insurance?

A: This would depend on your driving history, address, type of vehicle etc. To obtain a quote please click on the image below.

Q: Do I get a refund if I sell my car after paying my insurance premium?

A: Having paid an annual premium, if the policy is cancelled prior to renewal date, a partial refund would be made (provided no claims have been made during the period of cover). Alternatively, if you do buy a new car and contact us, we offer a substitution of cover for good customer service and for you to maintain the same renewal date. Direct Line helpline on 0845 246 8701.

Q: If I have a motoring conviction i.e. fixed penalty endorsement or driving ban will it effect my premium?

A: Direct Line will be taking your driving history into consideration, therefore we do need to know your licence history. If you have convictions, endorsements or bans on your licence this affects the risk, which will have a knock on effect on your premium.

Q: Do I have to pay an excess if my windscreen is repaired?

A: No, if your windscreen is repaired by an approved repairer the repair is free of charge.

Q: Does Direct Line offer discounts if the vehicle is fitted with Thatcham alarms and immobilizers?

A: At the moment Direct Line does not offer discounts for a Thatcham approved system being installed.

Unless we have asked specifically for a Thatcham approved system to be fitted as a standard requirement then it is not necessary on the Insurance.

Q: If I am buying a new car - how do I transfer my existing policy over to the new vehicle?

A: As an existing customer you would only need to call our motor department and amend your current policy. There may be a variation in price and a change in the underwriting criteria for the new car, but this will be discussed with you. Please call us.

Q: What is your standard schedule of cover on new car policies?

A: For Comprehensive cover, Direct Line offer cover the following:

Windscreen Cover - £50 x/s
Personal Effects - £100
Personal Accident - £5000
Medical Expenses - £100
Stereo Cover - £1000

The online policy booklet details all other inclusions/exclusions. Along with this cover Direct Line include an accident recovery service, where in the event of an accident we will collect your car, repair it and then return it cleaned inside and out. In the event of an Accident Direct Line do not supply courtesy cars. The reason being is that our main aim is to get the vehicle repaired as soon as possible. We do, however have an additional benefit called Guaranteed Hired Car. This facility is £15.75 for the full year and provides a hired car for up to 14 days in the event of an accident.

Q: If my car is going to be off the road, can I freeze my insurance payments?

A: You are able to change the level of cover you have. If the car is not going to be used we can reduce your cover to Accidental Damage, Fire & Theft or just Fire and Theft only - this is known as a laid-up policy. We require that the car is kept in a locked garage, you have no road use whatsoever and the Certificate of Insurance must be returned. The premium will be adjusted to reflect the reduction in cover. Alternatively we can suspend the cover completely. Payments will need to be taken, however providing your suspension exceeds 28 days we will offer a return premium for the time you have spent on suspension in excess of this period. Please remember that if your car is off the road you need to inform the DVLA and request a SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification) certificate. To discuss the above matter further please call us.

Q: If I have business use on my policy, will my spouse be covered for business use too?

A: Yes. Class 1 business use gives cover for you and your spouse, each in connection with your business. (Provided your spouse is insured to drive on the policy).

Q: How do I cancel my Motor Policy?

A: In order to cancel your Motor Policy, please return the Certificate of Motor Insurance along with a covering letter to the address stated below: Direct Line House 3 Edridge Road Croydon Surrey CR9 1AG I hope this information helps.