What is a cover note?
A cover note is a temporary document issued by an insurance company that provides evidence of insurance coverage until the actual insurance policy is issued.
Key points
- A cover note is a temporary document that shows you have car insurance in place while you wait for your insurance certificate. It confirms that cover has started and that you have paid for your car insurance.
- Cover notes are now less common, as insurance documents are usually issued quickly online. They may still be used if you apply by phone or post, amend your policy, or if there is a system delay.
- You can use a valid cover note as proof of insurance if asked by the police. It is only accepted while it is within its stated time period.
- Cover notes usually last up to 30 days, although this can vary by insurer. At Aviva, cover notes are issued for a maximum of 30 days, and any extension needs to be agreed with us.
Cover notes are usually sent when you haven’t yet received your insurance certificate. With the advances in technology and the shift of financial transactions to online platforms, they’re not as common as they used to be.
When are cover notes issued?
A cover note might be issued for a few reasons:
- You’ve applied by phone or post
- Your insurer is having system issues
- The underwriter wants to discuss any risks there might be when insuring
- You’ve amended your policy – such as adding another driver
Can a cover note be used as proof of insurance?
Yes, your cover note is proof that you’ve paid for your car insurance and that you haven’t received your insurance certificate yet.
If you get pulled over, police will accept your cover note as proof as long as it’s being used within the valid period.
What if my insurance certificate doesn't arrive?
In the rare event that a cover note expires before an insurance certificate is sent, some insurance companies may choose to send an extension to your cover note.
How long do cover notes last?
Cover notes typically last 30 days, although this duration can vary depending on your policy and insurer, with 60 days often being the maximum period. At Aviva, cover notes are issued for a maximum of 30 days. Any requirement to extend or add cover must be referred to us for further assistance. Please visit our contact us page.
What’s the difference between my cover note and my insurance policy?
The same terms and conditions apply with your cover note as your full policy. However, your insurance policy documents are more comprehensive and contain all the details of your cover, whereas your cover note simply confirms that you have paid for your insurance.
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