See the documents required for car insurance when you buy, renew or claim. Keep this simple checklist ready to save time. Get a quote when you are ready.
For car insurance you usually need your RC copy, driving licence, ID and address proof, and your previous policy copy. For a claim, you also need a claim form, repair estimate, bills and photos of the damage, and sometimes an FIR. Exact needs can differ by insurer, so check your policy wording.
Documents for buying a new policy
When you buy car insurance for the first time, or for a new car, you usually need:
- RC (Registration Certificate) copy: This shows the car's details and owner.
- ID proof: For example, a government photo ID.
- Address proof: A document that shows your current address.
- Driving licence: Of the owner-driver.
- Car invoice: For a new car, the invoice is usually asked for.
Your car details must match your RC. Small mistakes in name or number can cause problems later at claim time. You can learn more about new car cover on our new vehicle insurance page.
Documents for renewal
For renewal, the list is usually shorter:
- Previous policy copy: It shows your old cover, IDV and NCB.
- RC copy: To confirm the vehicle details.
- ID and address proof: If your details have changed.
- Driving licence: If asked.
If your policy has expired, the insurer may also ask for photos of your car or an inspection. Read our guide on how to renew expired car insurance for the full steps. You can also visit our renew vehicle insurance page.
Keep your previous policy copy safe. It helps you prove your No Claim Bonus (NCB), which is a discount for claim-free years. Our no claim bonus page explains how it works.
Documents for a claim
At the time of a claim, insurers usually ask for:
- Claim form: Filled and signed.
- RC copy: Of your car.
- Driving licence: Of the person driving at the time.
- Previous policy copy or current policy copy.
- ID and address proof.
- FIR: Needed when required, like theft, major accident, third-party injury or death, or a riot.
- Repair estimate and bills: From the garage.
- Photos of the damage.
For a theft claim, you also file an FIR and inform the insurer. A "non-traceable" report from the police is usually needed before final settlement. Our post on car theft insurance claim has more details.
Why correct documents matter
Missing or wrong documents can slow a claim. Wrong or hidden facts can even lead to rejection. So:
- Check names, numbers and dates on every document.
- Give the same details everywhere.
- Do not hide earlier claims or damage.
- Send clear, readable copies and photos.
A simple checklist to keep ready
- RC copy
- Driving licence
- ID proof and address proof
- Previous policy copy
- Car invoice (for a new car)
- Phone with clear photos of the car
- Contact numbers of your insurer and nearest network garage
Keep both digital and printed copies. Save the digital copies in your phone or email so you can find them fast, even if you are away from home.
How to take good photos for a claim
Photos help the surveyor understand the damage. Try to:
- Take photos of the full car from all four sides
- Take close-up photos of each damaged part
- Take a photo of the registration plate
- Take photos of the place of the accident, if safe
- Avoid moving the car more than needed before the survey
When you are unsure
Insurers can have different rules, so ask before you submit. If you have doubts about what to give, you can look at our claim support page. Our FAQ page may also help.
When you are ready to buy or renew, you can get a quote.
Rules and document lists can change. Your policy document and your insurer's instructions are the final word.
FAQs
Do I need a driving licence to buy car insurance?
Insurers usually ask for the owner-driver's driving licence details. Check the exact rule with your insurer.
Is an FIR needed for every claim?
No. An FIR is usually needed for theft, major accidents, third-party injury or death, and riots. Small damage claims may not need one.
Can I use a copy of my documents?
Usually, yes. Clear digital or scanned copies are common. Keep the originals safe.
What if I lost my previous policy copy?
Ask your insurer to send it again by email or SMS. You can also check your policy details using your vehicle number.
This guide is for information only. Rules and policy terms can change, and the policy document is final. Please read your policy wording.