I've inherited a car but the registration has not yet been changed — can I insure it?
What should you do?
- Tell the insurer that the car has been inherited and the V5C change is pending.
- Keep probate, executor or transfer evidence if relevant.
- Do not drive until valid insurance is actually in force.
- Update the insurer if the registered-keeper details change.
What can make a difference?
The result can depend on your level of cover, exclusions, excess, information given when the policy was arranged or renewed, who was driving, and the precise circumstances. Two policies both described as “comprehensive” can still contain different terms.
The V5C records the registered keeper; it is not, by itself, proof of legal ownership.
An insurer may ask who owns the vehicle and who is recorded as the registered keeper. Until the paperwork is updated, make the inheritance and registration position clear rather than giving details that are technically no longer accurate.
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