How Much Does Car Insurance Go Down After 1 Year No Claims?

Ian Beevis - Clean Green Compare Insurance Expert
Written by  Ian BeevisUpdated  9 September 20252 min read

Table of Contents

On average, UK drivers with 1 year of no claims can expect their car insurance to drop by around 10% to 15%, depending on the insurer. It’s the first big step toward building a discount that can grow year-on-year, potentially saving you hundreds over time.

Insurers reward claim-free driving because it shows you’re a lower risk, and 1 year is enough to start seeing real savings.

Key points

What Is a No Claims Bonus (NCB)?

A No Claims Bonus (or No Claims Discount) is a reward given for each year you hold a policy and don’t make a claim. The more years you go without claiming, the higher the discount, often up to 60–70% off your premium after five or more years.

Insurers each have their own NCB scale, but 1 year usually unlocks:

  • Around 10–15% discount
  • The ability to start protecting your bonus (optional add-on)
  • A better quote when comparing or switching providers

Does Everyone Get the Same Discount?

Not exactly. Several factors influence how much your premium drops:

  • Your age and driving experience
  • Vehicle type and insurance group
  • Your postcode and driving history
  • Whether you had named driver experience before

So, while 10–15% is a rough average for 1 year no claims, some drivers, especially younger ones, might see bigger savings as their risk profile improves.

How Much Does Car Insurance Go Down After 1 Year No Claims? image

How much will my insurance drop after 1 year no claims as a new driver?

Often between 10–15%, but it can vary. New drivers tend to see more impact as they move out of the highest-risk category.

Can I use no claims bonus on a new policy?

Yes, your bonus is transferable, as long as you get proof from your previous insurer.

What if I switch insurers, do I lose my bonus?

No. Just provide proof of your NCB to the new provider within their timeframe.

In Summary

  • A 1-year no claims bonus typically earns you a 10–15% discount
  • Discounts increase with each year you remain claim-free
  • Your NCB is transferable and can be protected with some policies

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