Yes, but depending on your insurer, when it comes to making a claim, you may have to pay an additional excess for other drivers if they were behind the wheel.
While some insurers will cover anyone driving your car, others will charge you the excess. Plus, an extra age-based excess may apply if the additional driver is under 25, or over 25 but with less than 2 years' driving experience. This premium can cost more if you haven't nominated the driver on your policy.
In most cases, you'll need to list all drivers on your policy who regularly use the car. If you don't, you risk a reduction or refusal of a claim.
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This is accurate as of February 2024
You will generally have to pay an additional excess if they are involved in an accident, which can be more than $2,000. Typically, there's also an age excess charge if they're under 25. You may have to pay a higher excess if the young driver wasn't listed on your policy.
If someone plans to use your car regularly, then the best option is to list them as an additional driver; that way, you don't need to worry about the huge excess. But keep in mind, some insurers will charge you an additional excess regardless of whether they are listed or not.
Some will refuse to cover unlisted drivers altogether. So, it pays to know if this applies to you. Be sure to read your product disclosure statement (PDS) to be aware of any policy exclusions.
| Response | |
|---|---|
| No | 56.06% |
| Yes | 38.77% |
| Doesn’t apply | 5.17% |
While CTP car insurance provides protection regardless of who is driving your car, some will only cover the drivers nominated on your policy. Some unlisted driver exclusions include no cover for damage, loss or liability arising out of the use of your car:
You should always check with your provider, or read your policy's Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) as to how listed and unlisted drivers are taken into account.
If someone plans to use your car frequently, you should list them on your insurance. It's also a good idea to list all household members, provided they plan to use the car, as car insurers might exclude unlisted drivers outright. The only time it's not worth listing someone on your car is if they rarely use it.
The easiest way to avoid unwanted additional excesses or a claim refusal, is not to let any unlisted person drive your car. However, if you live with someone who shares the car, it's probably worth listing them on your cover. You'll pay more but it provides them with the same services and protection as you. It could also save you heaps in the long run.
Keep in mind that you can't put a car insurance policy in your name if someone else is the main driver. This is called car insurance fronting, and it's illegal.
If you already have a policy, you can phone your car insurance provider and ask to have an additional driver added to your policy. The insurer will usually be able to add them on straight away. Your premium will go up, especially if they're a younger or less experienced driver.
Alternatively, you can compare car insurance providers for a deal that works best for you. When you're filling out an application, you'll have the option of adding an additional driver to your policy. All you need to do is add their details and the insurer will calculate your premium.
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My listed driver had accident at his fault. Is it effected my driving history and my insurance premiums
Thanks
Gamini
Hi Gamini,
There’s a chance this could affect your insurance premiums in future but this will vary between insurers and likely depend on who the listed drivers are on your next policy. Typically, they’ll ask if you or any listed drivers have been in an accident and you must answer honestly. When it comes time to renew or switch your car insurance, it could be worth getting in touch with the insurer to see what your options are.
We assisted our son to purchase a vehicle (we paid some & he took a loan for balance), the deal is it’s both of our vehicle. Can we list him as a driver if he took out a part loan on it?
Hi Jude,
When it comes to listing drivers for car insurance, it’s important to list whoever will be the main driver of the car, regardless of who paid for it. Some insurers will also ask you to list all additional drivers who may drive the car too. If you’re unsure about who to list, it might be worth calling your insurer to discuss your circumstances so they can help you know who is the best person to list as a driver.
Thanks,
Peta