Yes, but only if you follow these important rules
If you’re learning to drive and your parents have a perfectly good car sitting on the driveway, it makes total sense to ask, “Can I just practise in that?” Short answer: yes. But there are a few legal and insurance hoops to jump through first.
Let’s run through what you need to know to stay legal, safe and insured when borrowing the family car for extra practise.
You Need the Right Type of Insurance
Before you turn the key, you must be insured to drive the vehicle. Don’t assume you’re covered just because your parents are - you’re not. The right type of insurance makes all the difference.
Standard car insurance policies usually exclude learner drivers unless they’re specifically added (and it may only be third-party cover). A safer, often cheaper alternative is to get a separate, short-term learner driver policy that covers just you, and only when you're behind the wheel.
What are the supervision rules when driving your parent’s car?
To legally drive with a provisional licence in someone else’s car, you must be accompanied by a supervisor who:
- Is over 25 years old
- Has held a full UK driving licence for at least 3 years
- Is qualified to drive the type of vehicle being used
- Is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs
So while mum or dad might be the obvious choice, older siblings or family friends could also supervise - as long as they meet those criteria.
Why Dedicated Learner Insurance Makes Life Easier
Having your own policy means no risk to your parents’ No Claims Discount and no surprise excesses if something goes wrong. It also gives you the flexibility to practise as often as you like - within your policy’s limits, of course.
Policies can range from 7 days to 6 months and offer comprehensive cover including accidental damage, fire, and theft, so long as you're complying with the policy terms.
Key Restrictions to Remember
- You must hold a UK provisional licence.
- You must be between 17–21 years old at the time of cover.
- You must not be driving alone under any circumstances.
- Your learner driver policy ends immediately once you pass your driving test.
These terms are strictly enforced, so don’t be tempted to push your luck - it’s not worth the risk.
Summary
Yes, you can practise driving in your parent’s car - but only if you’ve got the right insurance and a qualified supervisor. A learner driver policy offers peace of mind for everyone involved and protects the main driver’s no-claims record.
So before you grab the keys, make sure you’re covered properly. Then hit the road confidently, knowing you're legal, safe and smart about how you drive.
Ready to start practising?
Get covered today with learner driver insurance from DriveWISE.