​What you need to know about insuring your new ‘24’ plate​

Buying or selling a car

8 March 2024

The 1st March 2024 saw the introduction of new ‘24’ plates here in the UK. If you plan to upgrade your driving experience with a brand-new car, here are a few things you’ll need to know:

What will the new plates look like?

Since 2001, the third and fourth characters on new UK number plates change every six months – in March and September. The numbers on the plate represent the year the car was registered – so plates issued by the DVLA from March 2024 onwards, have ‘24’.

When will UK number plates change next?

In September, the numbers on UK reg plates change to the year, plus 50. So, from 1st September 2024, new cars will feature ‘74’ on their plates.

If I change my car, do I have to get a new insurance policy?

If you buy a new car (or even just one that’s new to you), there’s usually no need to cancel your current cover. Simply get in touch with your insurer to get the car added to your policy. If you’ve traded in or sold your old car, you can take that off your policy at the same time.

There might be some situations where your insurer can’t offer you cover for your new vehicle. If that’s the case, you may need to cancel your policy and find another insurer.

Want to change your car?

With your AXA car insurance, you can avoid cancellation fees and keep your no claims discount by replacing the car on your policy, online.

When you change your car with us, you can choose to stay covered on your current car until you pick up your new one later that day. As soon as you get your new car, the cover will switch and you’ll be good to go. Or, if you’re planning to sell your car, you can apply for up to 30 days’ temporary cover. That way you can stay covered until it’s sold.

When do I need to get insurance for my new car?

Unless your new car is being delivered to your home, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the protection of insurance from the moment you get behind the steering wheel. It’s a legal requirement for your car to be insured – even for the drive home from the garage or dealership.

Sometimes the dealership will offer you ‘driveaway insurance’, which is temporary cover designed to protect your new vehicle for the first few days you own it. But, you might find it easier to add your new car to your existing car insurance. That way, if an accident happens, you’ll already be familiar with what to do, who to contact, and what you’ll be covered for.

How can I get insurance for my new car?

To get your new car covered by your existing AXA car insurance policy, visit your online account:

  1. Once you’ve logged in, click the ‘Make a change’ button
  2. On the next screen, click ‘Change car’
  3. Follow the steps and fill in the details to replace the car on your policy. We’ll let you know of any difference in the price of your premium before you decide.

Not with AXA?

With AXA Car Insurance, you can choose between premium and essential cover with peace of mind as standard. Get a quote today for comprehensive car insurance you can rely on.