No Claims Bonus After 5.5 Year Hiatus From Driving?

[DonaldDuck92]

Just about to buy a car having not driven for 5.5 years. Previously to that I'd been driving from 2002 to 2015. Somewhere in the depths of my file store I have the certificate of 9 years proof of no claims.

Where do I stand with a new insurance policy? Am I classed as a new driver or will my no claim still apply?

Thanks in advance.

[sunny-dave]

I doubt you'll get a full allowance - it's usually 'within the last two years' that is needed.

But, you should get an introductory bonus (usually two or three years) as an experienced driver - and it's always worth getting quotes over the phone from a broker (rather than just via an online comparison site) as they may have some wiggle room as regards the NCB allowance.

[Buenchico]

Those pesky meerkats suggest that your No Claims Discount will have remained valid for up to 2 years with some insurers, with others possibly stretching the period to 3 years. However it seems unlikely that you'll find any insurers recognising its validity after 5.5 years:
https://www.comparethemarket.com/car-insurance/content/is-my-no-claims-still-valid-after-a-break-in-my-insurance-cover/

Other sites say much the same. e.g.
https://www.moneysupermarket.com/car-insurance/how-to-get-proof-of-no-claims-bonus/

[Arrods]

Might be worth checking with your previous insurer in case they give you a better deal than others you try.