"If you're planning on driving to the Republic of Ireland, make sure to check your policy. You might only have a set number of days you're allowed to drive abroad for. If you're still unsure, you can always contact your insurer."
How much is NI car insurance?
Average car insurance prices(2).
UK average(2)
£777
NI average(2)
£834
(2) Confused.com Q1 2025 price index data.
Historically the average price of car insurance in Northern Ireland has been slightly higher than most parts of mainland UK.
According to the latest Confused.com car insurance price index, this is still the case although the gap has closed. There are a few reasons why insurance can be costlier in Northern Ireland.
According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), costs associated with vehicle repairs are leading to the rise in premiums. In addition, a younger population compared to large parts of the UK and more rural areas could be contributing factors to the costs. These risks create less competition between insurers with many British companies opting against offering cover in Northern Ireland.
How can drivers in Northern Ireland get cheaper insurance?
In spite of the rising costs, there are ways you can reduce the cost of car insurance in Northern Ireland:
Try black box insurance:
A telematics policy such as black box insurance will measure how, when, and how much you drive. You may face restrictions such as driving curfews or a mileage cap, but you can reduce costs by driving safely and responsibly.
Compare quotes
A change in regulation means insurers can no longer charge existing customers any more than a new customer for a like-for-like policy.
But it's likely you'll be quoted more at renewal due to things like rising costs of repairs, or changes to your own circumstances, so it's worth shopping around. You could save up to £468*** just by comparing quotes, and that's what we're good at!
Choose comprehensive cover
Higher risk drivers often choose third-party insurance, assuming it's the cheapest option. Our data shows drivers in Northern Ireland paid £834 on average(2) for fully comp, £1,709 for third party, fire and theft and £2,056 for third party only cover(3).
Get cover early
You're more likely to face more expensive quotes the closer you are to your renewal date. Our data shows that you’ll get the best prices by taking out a new policy 20 days(3) before your current one ends. Shopping around and comparing quotes early can help you save money.
Park on a driveway
It may seem insignificant, but where you park can impact what you pay. Our data shows that drivers in Northern Ireland who parked on a driveway paid £313 less on average(3) than those parking on the road. So, changing where you park can help you save.
(2)Confused.com price index data Q1 2025.
(3)Confused.com data Q4 2024.
****Based on data provided by Consumer Intelligence Ltd, www.consumerintelligence.com (January '25). 51% of Confused.com car insurance customers could save £468.08
Will my NI car insurance cover me in the Republic of Ireland?
In most cases, yes - but bear in mind the UK is no longer part of the EU, whereas the Republic of Ireland (ROI) is. This means that you're effectively driving abroad, so the level of cover you have while driving in the Republic of Ireland could change.
Here are a few things to be aware of if you'll be driving to the ROI.
Your cover level may vary: Most insurers include 30 days minimum european cover as part of your policy. It's important to note that this may only be on a third party basis. Even if you have a comprehensive policy in the UK, crossing the border could affect your level of cover. Check with your provider first, you may need additional European cover as a policy add-on.
Your cover period may vary: Again, checking your policy documents is crucial - you may have 30 days of European cover included as standard or up to 90 days. It could be that 30 days is the total amount you’re allowed to drive in a year, not simply for one trip. If you’re planning on driving for longer than 30 days, you may need to extend the cover period on your policy. If this isn't an option, you can take out temporary European cover.
Your breakdown provider may not cover you: European breakdown cover isn't typically included with a standard car insurance policy. If you require European car insurance, breakdown cover is an optional extra in the same way breakdown cover isn't necessarily included with a standard policy.
You may need an international driving permit (IDP): You do not need an IDP if you're driving in the Republic of Ireland for less than 12 months. But if you intend on driving for longer than this period, you'll have to apply for a permit. Make sure to check the entry requirements for Ireland before setting off on your trip.
Choose a reward & enjoy year-round hot drinks every time you buy car, home or van insurance**
How to claim
**Single annual policy. New and former Paramount+ subscribers only who sign up at ParamountPlus.com. Subscription required. Auto-renews unless cancelled. 18+. Just Eat website account required, geographical exclusions apply. The year-round reward is provided by Greggs, and consists of one regular hot drink per month for a year, only available via the Confused.com app. T&Cs apply.
What our car insurance expert says
What types of cover can I get?
The level of cover you get will depend on the type of insurance you opt for. There are 3 main types of policies:
(2)Confused.com data Q1 2025.
Why choose Confused.com
Save up to £468***
Compare quotes with us and you could find yourself saving £100s on your car insurance. Join the millions of drivers who've saved money with us over the last 20 years!
Help yourself to 1 of 4 rewards:
Select a reward on us from Sainsbury's, Halfords, Just Eat or Paramount+ when you buy your insurance through Confused.com. Not only that, you can enjoy a free hot drink from Greggs every month for a year through our app.
Get access to exclusive deals
We work with our insurance partners to offer you exclusive offers and the best deals. Look out for your 'special offers' highlighted on the prices page when comparing quotes.
Beat your renewal price:
It's our promise to you - we'll beat your renewal price. If we can't? We'll give you the difference plus £20, terms and conditions apply.
Our customers say:
Types of car insurance
Breakdown cover
Could provide peace of mind should you and your motor run into difficulties at home, on the road or in Europe.
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Gives you cheap, short-term cover from 1 hour to 28 days for social and business use.
Business car insurance
Covers you if you use your car for work, including travelling between offices or across the country.
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