Foreign drivers often face extra complications when a vehicle is seized in Britain. While it is possible for a non-UK resident or overseas licence holder to arrange impounded-car insurance, the options are limited and the rules are strict. Most mainstream UK insurers refuse these cases entirely, leaving a handful of specialist brokers able to arrange cover under certain conditions.

When a foreign driver can get impound cover

Some insurers accept overseas licence holders if they can provide proof of long-term residence in the UK — such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement showing a valid British address. The policy must be issued to a UK address because it needs to appear on the Motor Insurance Database (MID), which only records policies linked to UK-based postcodes. Without that, the police pound cannot verify the cover and will not release the car.

Drivers holding an EU, EEA, or Northern Irish licence generally find it easier to meet these conditions, since the licence format is compatible and can be verified against DVLA systems. Holders of international or non-EU licences may need to provide additional documentation, such as a certified translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Why many insurers refuse non-UK drivers

Most short-term and impound insurance providers are structured around UK risk data — claims history, credit records, and DVLA endorsements. When a driver’s background can’t be checked through those systems, the insurer can’t assess the risk accurately. As a result, they either decline the application or impose higher premiums.

In practice, this means foreign drivers are often limited to specialist schemes designed for temporary visitors or expatriates. These policies are valid for impound release only if the insurer confirms that the vehicle’s registration and the driver’s details will be uploaded to the MID promptly.

Documents required at the pound

A foreign driver collecting a car from a UK impound must normally bring:

• photo ID (such as a passport),
• proof of address in the UK,
• the vehicle’s V5C logbook or proof of ownership,
• a valid insurance certificate that clearly allows impound release, and
• payment for all release and storage fees.

Some police forces also ask to see the driver’s visa or entry stamp if they are not resident in the UK. Without sufficient documentation, the pound may refuse release even if the car is insured.

If insurance can’t be arranged

If no insurer will accept a foreign licence, the simplest alternative is to appoint a UK-resident driver with valid impound insurance to collect the vehicle. The registered keeper can authorise this in writing, provided all documents are complete. Another option is to have the car transported from the pound by a recovery firm rather than driven away.

Final note

Foreign drivers can sometimes obtain impounded-car insurance in the UK, but only under specific conditions. A UK address and verifiable driving documents are usually required, and policies must appear on the MID before collection. Where that’s not possible, a UK-resident driver or recovery company can be authorised instead. Acting quickly and confirming requirements with the pound in advance is the best way to avoid delay or refusal.

Check here for more useful information about impounded cars!

Please note: impound rules, collection windows and fee structures are set locally and can change at any time. Details on this site offer a broad outline only and are not guaranteed to match the requirements of any individual pound or authority.