Calculating how many miles you drive each year may seem like a tricky task but it's important to get it right. Mileage is one of the factors used by insurers to calculate your car insurance quote, and underestimating it could result in your policy being invalidated.
What does annual mileage mean?
Your annual mileage is the number of miles you drive in a year, and insurers ask you for it when getting or renewing a car insurance policy. Statistics from the Department for Transport show that the average annual mileage for private cars in 2019 was 7,600 miles.
Why is it important I know my mileage?
Insurance
Generally speaking, the higher your mileage, the higher your premium. There are other factors that may affect your premium too, such as your age, where you live and what car you drive. So don't think you have to dramatically alter your driving habits to get cheaper car insurance.
But it's worth working out what your annual mileage could be rather than just guessing. If you make a claim and your insurer finds out you've underestimated your car's mileage and usage they could decide not to pay out.
Or if you underestimate the annual mileage in order to get a cheaper quote, you could risk invalidating your policy.
On the flip-side, if you overestimate your mileage you could pay more for your premium than you need to. That said, don't get bogged down with serious sums as most insurers will accept a bit of leeway.
If you're a student, don't forget to let your insurer know if you're planning to leave your car at home during term time – unless you're planning on making a SORN – as your estimated mileage will drop.
Buying a car
As well as helping to calculate your insurance premium, mileage is something to consider when buying a used car.
You may think you'd be better off with a low mileage car – as they've been on the road less. But high-mileage cars can actually be a good choice.
A vehicle that does a lot of short stop-start journeys, and never warms up properly, will suffer more wear and tear than one with a higher mileage that spends most of its time at normal temperature on a motorway.
Some people selling a used car will illegally use clocking – winding back the odometer – to lower the mileage and up the car's value. If you're suspicious about the reported mileage of a car, you can run an AA Vehicle Check or check the MOT history.
Can I get a discount for low mileage?
Some insurers may offer cheaper rates for very low mileage – anything significantly under 7,500 – so it's always smart to ask. Look out for restricted mileage car insurance, if you drive less than a set number of miles per day.
How do I calculate my mileage?
You can use our route planner to work out the distance of a trip. Once you know how often you plan on making this journey, you'll have an accurate estimated mileage.
If it's your first year of driving, start by working out the miles you expect to cover in a typical week.
Here's how to calculate your annual mileage
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You can estimate an annual mileage following the guide below.
| Miles you drive in a day | Miles you drive in a week | Miles you drive in a year |
| 3 | 21 | 1,500 |
| 5 | 35 | 2,000 |
| 10 | 70 | 4,000 |
| 15 | 105 | 6,000 |
| 20 | 140 | 7,500 |
| 25 | 175 | 9,500 |
| 30 | 210 | 11,000 |
| 35 | 245 | 13,000 |
You can also use the mileage recorded on the latest MOT certificate, though remember to make adjustments that reflect any changes to your circumstances.
Keep an eye on your mileage as the year progresses, and if your estimate is a long way under then contact your insurer to revise your cover.
However often you drive, we'll be happy to give you a car insurance quote online.
Author: The AA. Published 16 May 2019. Updated 26 July 2024.