When Does my Car Insurance Run Out?

Written by Ian BeevisUpdated 7 April 20252 min read

It’s easy to lose track of when your car insurance is due to expire, especially with everything else going on in life. But knowing when your car insurance runs out is essential, not just to avoid driving uninsured, but to make sure you’ve got time to shop around and get a better deal if needed.

Key points

Check Your Policy Documents: Your renewal or policy start date will be clearly stated in your insurance paperwork or confirmation email. Most policies last 12 months, so you can usually work it out from your start date.
Log Into Your Insurer’s Website or App: Most providers have an online portal or app where you can view your current cover and renewal date.
Contact Your Insurer: If you can’t find the documents or don’t have online access, just give your insurer a call. They’ll confirm when your policy ends and whether it will auto-renew.
Use the Motor Insurance Database (MID): In the UK, you can check if your vehicle is currently insured by using the free askMID service. It won’t tell you your exact expiry date, but it will confirm whether your cover is still active

When Does my Car Insurance Run Out - Why It Matters

Letting your car insurance lapse means you could end up driving without cover. This is illegal and could land you a fine, points on your licence, or even a driving ban. Also, if you’re involved in an accident without insurance, the financial consequences can be huge.

If your car insurance is close to renewal, this is a great time to compare car insurance quotes and see if you could save money by switching providers. Prices can vary massively between insurers, so it pays to shop around.

Will my insurance automatically renew?

It depends on your provider. Many policies do auto-renew, but it’s always worth checking so you’re not caught off guard or stuck with a higher premium.

Can I renew early?

Yes! You can usually renew your policy up to 30 days in advance. Some drivers get the best deals when renewing around 21–26 days before their policy ends.

What happens if I change my car before my insurance runs out?

You will need to contact your insurer to update your policy. You may be required to pay an admin fee or see a change in your premium depending on the new vehicle.

In Summary

Check your policy documents, app, or contact your insurer to find your expiry date.
Use the askMID tool to confirm your vehicle is still insured.
Don’t let your insurance lapse – it’s illegal and risky.
Your renewal window is a great time to shop around and compare cheaper cover.
Always check if your policy will auto-renew to avoid surprises.

Is your policy coming to an end? Compare Car Insurance Quotes

Don’t have your registration number? No problem, click here.

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