One claim-free year = one year of NCB
If your policy runs for 12 months without a claim, you’ll usually earn an additional year of NCB.
Glossary • Definition
What is a no-claims bonus (NCB)?
A no-claims bonus (sometimes called no-claims discount) is a discount you earn for each year you insure a vehicle without making a claim (rules vary by insurer).
- âś” How NCB is earned
- âś” How to prove it
- ✔ What “protecting” it usually means
In simple terms
If you insure your car for a year and don’t make a claim, you may earn 1 year of NCB. Over time, more years can mean a bigger discount — but the percentage and maximum vary by provider.
- NCB is usually earned per vehicle/policy, not “per person”
- You typically need proof when switching insurers
- Some claims can reduce NCB (depending on insurer rules)
How NCB is earned (typical)
Exact rules vary, but most insurers follow a similar pattern.
NCB builds up over time
Many insurers cap NCB at a certain number of years. The discount percentage can differ between insurers.
NCB is linked to a policy
NCB generally comes from a specific policy/vehicle history. It typically can’t be used on two cars at once.
Named drivers usually don’t earn it
In many cases, only the policyholder/main driver builds NCB. Some insurers offer alternatives — check terms.
How to prove your NCB
When you change insurer, you’re often asked to provide proof.
Typical proof
Usually this is shown on your renewal notice, or your insurer can provide documentation confirming your NCB years. Keep a copy when switching.
Start comparison →- Check your renewal documents show NCB years clearly
- Save a PDF/print copy in case you switch providers
- Confirm whether NCB is “mirrored” for a second vehicle (if relevant)
- Check how long NCB remains valid if you stop driving (varies)
What does “protecting” your NCB mean?
Protection can help, but it doesn’t make you claim-proof.
It may reduce how much NCB is lost
Protected NCB often means you can make a limited number of claims within a set period without losing all of your NCB (rules vary).
Your premium can still increase
Even with protected NCB, insurers may raise premiums after a claim because the risk profile changes.
It’s not the same everywhere
“Protected” isn’t a universal standard. Always read the provider’s terms to see what you’re buying.
Consider cost vs benefit
Protection costs extra. Compare the price difference with and without it, and weigh up your risk appetite.
Where NCB matters most
You’ll see NCB used heavily in car insurance pricing and quotes.
Car insurance quotes
NCB years are commonly requested when you compare policies.
Start comparing →Young drivers
New drivers typically have no NCB, so other factors dominate pricing.
Young drivers guide →Multi-car policies
NCB handling can vary when multiple vehicles are involved.
Multi-car guide →Need more detail?
Read our longer car guide explaining NCB in full.
Read full guide →Affiliate disclosure
Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you choose a provider through a link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Always check the provider’s website for the latest terms and policy details.