Is CTP Included in Comprehensive Insurance?

Updated on - 09 Feb 2026

When buying car insurance, many people wonder if compulsory third-party (CTP) cover is automatically part of a comprehensive plan. Both terms often appear together, but their roles are quite different. Third-party insurance protects others affected by your vehicle, while comprehensive cover safeguards your own car as well. Understanding how these two work together helps you choose the right policy without paying for unnecessary add-ons or missing essential protection.

Let’s break down how CTP and comprehensive cover differ, and whether one includes the other.

What is CTP (compulsory third-party) insurance?

Compulsory third-party (CTP) insurance, also known simply as third-party insurance in India, is a basic motor insurance cover required by law in India. It covers damages or injuries caused to third parties, their vehicles or property by your vehicle. This type of insurance ensures that victims receive compensation for their losses while protecting you from hefty legal or financial liabilities.

Is CTP mandatory in India?

Yes, third-party insurance is mandatory in India under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Every vehicle owner must have this basic coverage before the vehicle is legally allowed on the road. Driving without valid third-party insurance is a punishable offence.

The penalty for not having third-party insurance can be a fine of up to ₹2,000 for the first offence and ₹4,000 for subsequent ones, along with possible imprisonment for up to three months. Additionally, the driver becomes personally liable for any injury or damage caused to others in an accident, and authorities have the right to seize the uninsured vehicle until valid insurance is obtained. 

Difference between CTP and comprehensive cover

Knowing the difference between third-party insurance and comprehensive car insurance is crucial to ensure they have the right protection while meeting legal requirements.

Is compulsory third-party cover included in comprehensive insurance?

Yes, third-party cover is included in a comprehensive car insurance plan. In India, a comprehensive plan provides two types of protection: third-party liability cover and own-damage cover for your vehicle.

The third-party cover ensures that any injury, death or property damage caused to another person by your vehicle is financially taken care of. The own-damage cover protects your car against risks such as accidents, theft, fire, natural calamities and vandalism.

In simple terms, when you purchase comprehensive insurance, you automatically receive third-party protection along with wider coverage for your own vehicle. This makes it a complete plan that safeguards both you and others on the road.

How to add CTP to your comprehensive policy?

You do not need to add third-party cover separately to your comprehensive car insurance plan, as it is already included by default. As mentioned, comprehensive insurance in India provides both third-party liability cover and own-damage protection under a single plan.

If you wish to renew or upgrade your policy for enhanced coverage, you can do so easily by following these steps:

1. Contact your insurer: Reach out to your insurance provider through their website, app or customer service helpline.
2. Choose a comprehensive plan: Ask for a comprehensive car insurance plan that includes both own-damage and third-party coverage.
3. Submit necessary details: Provide your vehicle registration number, policy details and identification documents.
4. Pay the premium: Once the insurer calculates your updated premium, make the payment to activate your coverage.
5. Receive updated policy documents: You will get a revised policy document showing both own-damage and third-party protection.

It is always recommended to keep your third-party cover active, as it is legally required and ensures financial protection against liabilities to others in case of an accident.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between third-party and comprehensive car insurance is essential to ensure complete protection for your vehicle and financial safety. While third-party motor insurance is a legal requirement covering injuries to third parties, comprehensive insurance safeguards you for your own damages as well. Maintaining both gives you peace of mind on the road and ensures you’re covered in every situation.

If you’re planning to review or upgrade your car insurance, take a moment to fill out the form on this page to get expert advice.

FAQs

1. Can I buy both CTP and comprehensive insurance from the same insurer?

Yes, many insurers offer both policies, allowing you to conveniently purchase and manage them together.

2. What does CTP insurance cover?

Compulsory third-party, or simply third-party insurance, covers damages to third parties in an accident caused by your vehicle.

3. What does comprehensive car insurance cover?

Comprehensive insurance covers damages to your vehicle due to accidents, theft, fire or natural disasters, as well as third-party damages.

4. Is third-party insurance mandatory in India?

Yes, every registered vehicle must have valid third-party liability insurance to be legally driven on Indian roads.

5. Can I convert my existing third-party insurance plan to a comprehensive one?

Yes, you can upgrade by applying to your insurer, submitting the required documents and paying the premium difference.

6. Why should I have both CTP and comprehensive insurance?

Having both ensures legal compliance and full financial protection against third-party liabilities and personal vehicle damage.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.