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Things you need to know about endorsements in car insurance policies

It is mandatory in India to own a car insurance policy. Most car owners get one at the time of the car purchase itself and then usually forget about it. Not many people get into the nitty-gritty of the insurance policy, and some are not even aware of the endorsement in car insurance policies. An endorsement provides you with the window to make amendments or an addition to an already existing policy, thus enhancing its scope of coverage. ​

What is car insurance endorsement?


An endorsement in car insurance allows you to make alterations to the policy. You can add, delete, change or reduce the coverage offered in your policy. It is possible to issue an endorsement at the time of purchase of the policy, during the tenure of the policy, or when you renew the policy. Once you make an endorsement, it remains active until the policy expiry. You can renew your endorsement as per the terms of the policy. 

However, remember an endorsement impacts the amount of premium. When you increase the coverage, there will be an increase in the premium and if you restrict the coverage, the premium amount will reduce. 

Events that necessitate premium-bearing endorsement


Some events such as a change in car ownership or that in the geographical location necessitate endorsements. You can also opt for endorsement if you install an LPG or CNG kit in the car. If you are using the car rental service and want an insurance policy, you can consider an endorsement. Other events include:

  • Change in the ex-showroom price when it is misstated in the car insurance policy
  • Change in your budget
  • Installation or removal of electrical and non-electrical accessories in the car
  • Participating in a rally
  • Adding a Personal Accident Cover for the coverage of the passengers
  • Becoming a member of the authorised automobile association or cancelling the membership with the same
  • Removal of an anti-theft device from the car

    • Once you make an endorsement to the policy, the insurance company will issue a new document known as the Endorsement Certificate. It will record the alterations made to your insurance coverage. Your original car insurance policy will remain unchanged. 

    There are two types of endorsement—premium bearing and non-premium bearing. As the name suggests, a premium bearing endorsement attracts a higher premium, whereas, a non-premium endorsement means a reduced annual premium.

    When you make changes to your policy details such as the contact number or details of the nominee, you do not have to pay any additional premium amount. Such changes also include:

  • Change in the registration, engine or chassis number if incorrectly mentioned in the policy.
  • Change in the customer type if misstated in the policy. 
  • Correction in the name, address, city or gender of the policyholder if incorrect in the original documents. 
  • Changing the nominee of the policy.
  • Altering the contact details. 

    • When you buy car insurance online or renew the policy, be aware of endorsement and make the right choice. Your insurance policy should be aligned with your needs. Compare car insurance quotes and then make the final decision. If you already own a policy and want to enhance coverage, consider an endorsement.