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Can't get motor insurance on provisional licence

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  • 07-11-2017 7:42pm
    #1
    don_carlos
    Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭


    Hello,
    I have recently moved to Ireland from the United States where I held a full driving license for over 8 years. I tried unsuccesfully to get an affordable car insurance quote with my US license, which does not transfer over in Ireland, but quotes were over 5000 euro/year which I cannot afford on top of the cost of buying a vehicle.
    This being the case, I have begun the process of getting my Irish license. I now hold a provisional license and have taken the 12 required EDT lessons and am on the wait list to take the driving exam, which I am told is a minimum 6 months waiting period.
    In the meantime, I am trying to get insured on my provisional license. I should in theory be eligible for a no claims bonus, but unfortunately none of the insurance companies will accept my American no claims record. In fact after contacting numerous insurance companies and brokers, including ones which claim to specialise in providing insurance for provisional license holders, I have been unable to get a quote and all the companies have stated that they cannot provide a quote for a driver with only a provisional license.
    This has been a very frustrating process. I have struggled without a vehicle for the past year relying on neighbours for lifts and expensive bus services, and am desperate to get a vehicle before winter truly arrives. Can anyone recommend insurance companies that will provide quotes for provisional license holders, or suggest alternatives to finding insurance?
    Thank you for your time!


Comments

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    #2
    Faith+1
    Registered Users Posts: 3,674 ✭✭✭Faith+1


    It really depends on alot of factors OP such as your age, make and age of vehicle, annual milage etc...

    You should limit your scope to 1 to 1.2L to build up your NCB, and if finances are reasonably good I suggest you buy a car at least around a 2008 as insurance companies charge a fortune for older cars.

    I'd try 123 or AnPost.


  • Options
    #3
    Zadkiel
    Registered Users Posts: 687 ✭✭✭Zadkiel


    Anpost aren't quoting for provisionals at the moment. I'd try First Direct and Aviva.


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    #4
    don_carlos
    Registered Users Posts: 18 ✭don_carlos


    Thanks folks for your help. Using the specs you suggested I was able to find a vehicle and insure it affordably, just barely- the insurance costs more than the car! Ended up going with Liberty as they honoured my US driving experience. Thanks again for the help, I really appreciate it!


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