Car Insurance in Norway: A Complete Guide to Coverage, Costs, and Legal Requirements

Car insurance in Norway is an essential part of owning and driving a vehicle. Like most European countries, Norway enforces strict laws regarding motor insurance to ensure financial protection for both drivers and third parties in case of accidents or damage. However, what makes the Norwegian car insurance system unique is its balance between mandatory coverage, comprehensive optional plans, and the country’s strong focus on road safety and environmental sustainability.

This article provides an in-depth look at how car insurance works in Norway — from the types of coverage available to the cost factors, claim procedures, and best practices for choosing the right insurance provider.

1. Legal Framework and Mandatory Insurance Requirements

In Norway, every vehicle that operates on public roads must be covered by liability insurance (trafikkforsikring). This is a legal requirement under the Norwegian Motor Insurance Act, and driving without it is strictly prohibited. If a vehicle is found uninsured, the owner will face significant fines, and the car may be impounded.

Liability insurance covers:

• Damage to other people’s vehicles.

• Injury or death caused to other road users, passengers, or pedestrians.

• Damage to property, such as buildings, fences, or street infrastructure.

However, it’s important to note that this mandatory insurance does not cover damage to your own car or your own medical expenses after an accident. That’s why many Norwegian drivers choose to purchase additional coverage options.

2. Types of Car Insurance in Norway

Beyond the basic liability insurance, Norwegian insurers offer several additional types of coverage that can provide extra protection and peace of mind.

a. Partial Comprehensive Insurance (Delkasko)

This plan includes the benefits of liability insurance plus protection against specific non-collision-related risks. These typically include:

• Fire damage

• Theft or attempted theft

• Glass damage (e.g., windshield replacement)

• Damage caused by natural disasters (storms, flooding, etc.)

• Towing and roadside assistance

Partial comprehensive insurance is ideal for older vehicles or for those who want broader protection without paying for full coverage.

b. Full Comprehensive Insurance (Kasko)

This is the most complete type of car insurance available in Norway. It includes all the benefits of liability and partial comprehensive coverage, plus:

• Damage to your own vehicle (even if you caused the accident)

• Vandalism or malicious damage

• Hit-and-run accidents

• Parking damage

• Collision coverage

Full comprehensive insurance is usually recommended for newer or more valuable vehicles. It also provides protection in unpredictable scenarios like wildlife collisions, which are relatively common in rural Norway.

c. Optional Add-Ons

Many insurance companies also offer optional add-ons to customize your coverage, such as:

• Rental car coverage (while your car is being repaired)

• Legal protection insurance (covering legal costs in case of disputes)

• Driver and passenger accident insurance

• Extended roadside assistance in Europe

3. The Cost of Car Insurance in Norway

Car insurance in Norway can be expensive compared to other European countries, mainly due to the high cost of vehicle repairs, labor, and strict safety standards. However, the exact price depends on several factors.

Main factors affecting car insurance premiums:

1. Driver’s age and experience – Younger drivers (especially under 25) pay significantly higher premiums.

2. Type and value of the vehicle – Electric cars, sports cars, and luxury models are more expensive to insure.

3. Location – Insurance is generally more costly in cities like Oslo, Bergen, or Trondheim compared to rural areas.

4. Driving record – A clean record leads to lower premiums through the “bonus system.”

5. Mileage – Fewer kilometers driven per year often result in cheaper rates.

6. Garage or parking conditions – Vehicles kept in secure garages are cheaper to insure.

The Norwegian Bonus System:

Norway uses a “bonus–malus” system to reward safe drivers. Each year without an accident increases your bonus percentage, reducing your premium. If you file a claim for an at-fault accident, your bonus decreases. The maximum bonus can reach 75%, which takes about 14 years of claim-free driving to achieve.

4. Car Insurance for Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Norway is the world leader in electric car adoption, with more than 80% of new cars sold being electric. Because of this, insurers have developed specialized policies for EVs.

Electric car insurance typically includes:

• Coverage for charging equipment (home and public chargers).

• Battery protection (against fire, short circuit, or damage).

• Assistance for towing to charging stations.

While EV insurance can sometimes be slightly more expensive due to higher repair costs, the difference is narrowing as electric vehicles become mainstream.

5. Choosing a Car Insurance Company in Norway

There are many reputable car insurance providers in Norway, including:

• Gjensidige – One of the largest and oldest Norwegian insurance companies.

• If Skadeforsikring – Known for flexible coverage and digital claim processes.

• Tryg Forsikring – Offers competitive rates and good customer service.

• Fremtind – Provides eco-friendly and digital-first insurance solutions.

• Eika Forsikring – Popular among rural drivers and farmers.

When choosing a provider, it’s essential to compare:

• Coverage limits and exclusions

• Premium costs

• Customer service reputation

• Claim settlement times

• Online tools and mobile app functionality

Using comparison websites like Finansportalen.no can help you find the best deal, as it allows you to compare offers from multiple insurance companies.

6. How to Get Car Insurance in Norway

To purchase car insurance in Norway, you’ll need:

• A valid Norwegian ID number (fødselsnummer)

• Vehicle registration details

• Driver’s license information

• Proof of ownership

The process is typically straightforward and can be completed online. Once purchased, your insurance coverage starts immediately. All policies are registered electronically with the Norwegian Motor Vehicle Register (Statens Vegvesen), ensuring law enforcement can verify insurance status instantly.

7. Making a Claim

If you’re involved in an accident, here are the standard steps to follow:

1. Ensure safety first – Move to a safe location and provide aid if necessary.

2. Call the police – Required for serious accidents or disputes about fault.

3. Gather evidence – Take photos of the vehicles, location, and license plates.

4. Exchange information – Names, addresses, and insurance details of all parties involved.

5. Report to your insurer – Most companies allow digital claim submission via app or website.

Once your claim is approved, your insurer will coordinate with repair shops or pay for damages directly. In many cases, Norwegian insurance companies have agreements with authorized repair centers for faster service.

8. Insurance for Foreigners and Expats

Foreigners moving to Norway with a car must register it locally and purchase Norwegian car insurance if they plan to stay for more than one year. EU/EFTA citizens can drive their foreign-registered cars temporarily but still need valid insurance from their home country recognized by Norwegian authorities.

For those renting or borrowing cars, rental car insurance is typically included in the rental price but may have high deductibles. Purchasing additional collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection can minimize out-of-pocket expenses.

9. Deductibles (Own Risk)

Every car insurance policy in Norway includes a deductible (egenandel), which is the amount the policyholder must pay before the insurance covers the rest. The deductible varies depending on the type of claim — for example, glass damage might have a lower deductible than collision damage. Choosing a higher deductible can reduce your premium, but it increases your cost during an accident.

10. Road Safety and the Role of Insurance

Norway is recognized globally for its excellent road safety record. The country’s combination of strict driving laws, well-maintained infrastructure, and advanced vehicle standards has resulted in one of the lowest accident rates in the world.

Car insurance companies in Norway play a vital role in maintaining this record by:

• Encouraging responsible driving through the bonus system.

• Offering discounts for cars equipped with safety technology (ABS, lane assist, etc.).

• Supporting road safety campaigns and research.

11. Conclusion

Car insurance in Norway is more than just a legal obligation — it’s a reflection of the country’s commitment to safety, responsibility, and sustainability. Whether you’re a resident, an expat, or a visitor planning to drive in Norway, understanding the insurance system ensures that you’re financially protected and compliant with local regulations.

From the mandatory liability coverage to full comprehensive policies tailored for electric cars, the Norwegian car insurance market provides flexible solutions for every type of driver. By comparing providers, maintaining a clean driving record, and choosing the right coverage level, you can enjoy Norway’s scenic roads with complete peace of mind.