When collecting a vehicle from a police or DVLA impound, the insurance certificate is one of the most carefully checked documents. Staff will only release the car if the policy wording clearly shows that the driver and vehicle are properly insured for use on a public road. Even a small omission — such as a missing registration number or the wrong type of policy — can result in refusal. Understanding exactly what details must appear on the certificate helps avoid rejection and extra storage fees.

The registration number of the vehicle

The certificate must show the exact registration number of the car being released. Generic or “any vehicle” cover will not usually be accepted. If the policy lists multiple vehicles, make sure the one in the pound is clearly named. Pound staff check this against the release paperwork before allowing collection.

The policyholder’s name and address

The document must identify the policyholder and match their identification and ownership details. If someone else is collecting the car on behalf of the registered keeper, a letter of authority will be required, and the insurance must still show that the vehicle is covered for that driver to use or transport it.

Dates of cover and duration

The start and end dates of cover must be printed clearly. For impound release, most pounds require the policy to run for at least 30 days from the start date. The insurance must already be active — a certificate with a future start date will not be accepted. Temporary or one-day cover may be refused if the staff cannot confirm its validity through the Motor Insurance Database (MID).

Confirmation of use for impound release

The policy wording must make clear that it covers the vehicle for release from a police or DVLA pound. Not all insurers include this automatically. Some certificates state “suitable for impound release” or “meets police pound requirements.” Without that confirmation, staff may reject the policy even if it appears valid in other respects.

Vehicle use and driver entitlement

The certificate should specify that the named driver is insured to drive the vehicle for social, domestic, and pleasure purposes, or for commuting if relevant. Business use is not necessary for release, but the driver’s name must appear exactly as on their driving licence. If the driver is not the registered keeper, a letter of permission from the owner is also required.

Insurer details and authenticity

Every valid certificate includes the insurer’s name, address, and policy number. Police pounds may check these details against the MID or contact the insurer directly to confirm authenticity. Certificates must be official documents — not screenshots, quotes, or policy summaries. A printed or clearly downloadable PDF version is best, as handwritten notes or temporary confirmations are not accepted.

When the certificate is unclear

If the certificate does not clearly show that the policy covers the vehicle for impound release, staff may refuse collection. You can ask your insurer or broker to issue an updated certificate with explicit wording before attending. They are familiar with police pound requirements and can usually email a revised copy the same day.

Final note

For an impound release policy, the certificate must display: the registration number, policyholder’s name and address, period of cover, confirmation of impound release cover, and the insurer’s official details. Without these, the pound may refuse release until proper documentation is produced. Checking the certificate carefully before you attend is the simplest way to ensure a smooth, same-day collection.

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.