Can I get car insurance on a learner permit?
Do you have a learner's permit? Find out how you can get the right car insurance and start driving with confidence.
Key points:
- Learner drivers can now insure their car with Aviva —if it's registered to them.
- Aviva Telematics - It’s a way to show how safe you are as a driver — monitor your driving data and become a smarter, safer driver.
- Pick your protection: go all-in with comprehensive cover or opt for third party, fire & theft.
What learner drivers need to know about car insurance
In Ireland, car insurance is mandatory to drive on public roads. It helps protect you financially if you’re involved in an accident. Depending on the level of cover you choose, it may cover the damage you cause to others and the cost of repairs to your own car.
What is a learner permit (provisional licence)?
A learner permit (formerly known as a provisional licence) allows you to learn to drive on public roads in Ireland with certain conditions listed in the RSA's Rules of the Road.
All learner permit drivers must:
- Be accompanied by a fully licensed driver at all times
- Display L plates on their vehicle
- Not drive on motorways until they pass their driving test
What types of car insurance can you get as a learner driver?
1. Comprehensive insurance
Comprehensive car insurance offers the highest level of cover. It can protect against damage to your own car, even if you're at fault in an accident.
2. Third party, fire and theft
Third party, fire and theft car insurance covers damage you cause to others and also offers protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.
3. Third party only insurance
This is the minimum legal cover and only protects against damage you cause to others. Third party only car Insurance is not currently offered by Aviva.
Differences in types of car insurance
| Cover Type | Own Damage | Fire/Theft | Third Party Damage |
| Comprehensive | |||
| Third Party, Fire and Theft | |||
| Third Party Only |
How Aviva supports learner drivers
Introducing Aviva Telematics for new and inexperienced drivers
Our Aviva Telematics car insurance is designed with learner drivers in mind. It uses a small device installed in your car to track / monitor your driving behaviours, including speeding, braking and cornering. The aim? To help you become a safer driver.
Over time, better driving could result in lower premiums. It’s a smart way to build good habits from the start.
Benefits of telematics insurance for learner drivers
Learn more about the differences between telematics / black box Insurance versus traditional car Insurance in our helpful guide.
How to get a car insurance quote on a learner permit
Getting started is easy. Just complete Aviva’s online application form for a car insurance quote, including your driving experience details and learner permit information. You may be eligible for a Telematics quote depending on the information you enter.
Aviva Telematics car insurance
Also known as Black Box Insurance, suitable for those starting their driving journey - new or first-time drivers, and inexperienced drivers.
- 15% off when you buy onlineFootnote [1]
- Affordable insurance for beginners
- 24/7 Access to MyAviva portal to monitor your driving behaviours
Tips for getting the best value on your car insurance
1. Add a named experienced driver
Including a named driver with experience on your policy – such as a parent or guardian – can help reduce your premium, as insurers may view this as lower risk.
Note: You must be the main driver on your insurance policy. Although it may be enticing to have an experienced driver listed as the main driver with you as a named driver to try and reduce costs - it is illegal. This Is called "fronting". Learn more about fronting in our detailed guide.
2. Choose a car more suited to learner drivers
Opting for a small engine car with modern safety features can help reduce your premium as a learner driver – and even lower your car tax.
3. Consider a telematics policy
A telematics insurance policy is ideal for learner permit holders and new drivers who don't yet have a no claims bonus. It helps you get started on the road while encouraging good driving habits which will prove useful when you prepare to take your driving test.
FAQs
Can I drive alone on a learner permit?
No. In Ireland, learner permit holders must always be accompanied by a driver who has held a full licence for at least two years.
Will my premium go down when I get a full licence?
Yes, your insurance premium may decrease once you gain a full licence and build a no claims bonus – especially if you’ve been driving safely.
Can a learner driver get insurance on their own car?
Yes. Learner drivers can take out car insurance in their own name, provided the vehicle is registered to them and they follow all learner driver rules.
What happens if I get penalty points while on a learner permit?
Getting penalty points can increase your premium.
Can I build up a no claims bonus on a learner permit?
Yes – if you hold an insurance policy in your own name and drive claim-free, you can start building a no claims bonus even while on a learner permit.
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