Native Swiss here, recently moved to the UK (first-time resident) having been expatriate most of my career; I've been driving for over 25 years on a Swiss driving licence which I will convert to a UK one shortly (legal requirement).

This being said, when applying for a car insurance under a Full UK licence I would theoretically only have held this licence from the day my Swiss one was converted - making me a 'youngster' for insurers and a top-end premium payer. On the other hand, if I use my current Swiss driving licence many insurers also quote the same top-end premiums because it is a non-EU licence, and some insurers won't even quote on non-EU licences.

Besides, no-claim bonus certificates earned outside the UK / EU don't seem to be recognized / valid here in the UK, either........

Any suggestions - or just 'tough luck, mate' ?

HI - Im a native New Zealander and I switched my licence to a UK one. I am not sure about your situation but I didnt have to take a test - just posted the old one in and got a UK licence in the return mail. The comparison sites can't allow for your driving experience at home but every time I have phoned an insurance co directly they are happy to accept my overseas driving experience. NCD is a little different though - the only companies I could find who would accept my NCD from NZ were the AA and Norwich Union.

Check the DVLA website to see about exchanging you licence and GOOD LUCK!

Thanks for the info, I shall try and go 'direct'.