Daniel Craig's License to Drive Aston Martins for Life

When Daniel Craig hung up his Walther PPK after No Time to Die in 2021, he didn't walk away empty-handed. The actor who redefined James Bond for a new generation reportedly earned himself one of the most enviable perks in Hollywood: lifetime access to Aston Martin vehicles.

The Bond-Aston Martin Legacy

James Bond and Aston Martin have been inseparable since Sean Connery first slid behind the wheel of a silver DB5 in Goldfinger back in 1964. That legendary car, complete with ejector seat and machine guns, became as iconic as 007 himself.

The partnership has endured for six decades, with various Aston Martin models appearing throughout the franchise. But Daniel Craig's era took it to new heights.

A 15-Year Partnership

Craig's tenure as Bond spanned five films over 15 years:

• Casino Royale (2006) - The DBS makes its debut
• Quantum of Solace (2008)
• Skyfall (2012) - The classic DB5 returns
• Spectre (2015) - Featuring the stunning DB10
• No Time to Die (2021) - The Valhalla concept car appears

During this run, Craig became the longest-serving Bond actor by years (if not by number of films), and his association with the brand became genuinely meaningful to Aston Martin's image and sales.

More Than Just Product Placement

The relationship between Bond films and Aston Martin isn't just about screen time. When Craig's Bond drove the new DB10 in Spectre, it generated enormous publicity for the marque. The films serve as the ultimate advertisement for British luxury engineering.

In return, Aston Martin has shown its appreciation to the man who helped keep their brand in the global spotlight. The lifetime driving privilege is a fitting tribute to an actor who brought gritty authenticity to both Bond and his cars. Craig famously did many of his own driving stunts, and his genuine enthusiasm for the vehicles showed on screen.

What the Perk Actually Means

Rather than being able to walk into Gaydon and claim any vehicle off the production line, the arrangement is more of an ongoing loan relationship. Craig gets access to Aston Martin's current range, essentially ensuring he'll always have a suitable ride befitting a former 007.

It's not dissimilar to deals other celebrities have with luxury brands—though few can claim their partnership spans such an iconic cultural legacy.

For Craig, who reportedly earned around $100 million for No Time to Die alone, the perk is perhaps more symbolic than financially necessary. But there's something poetic about the man who played Bond for 15 years maintaining his license to drive the most famous spy cars in cinema history.

A Rare Hollywood Perk

Lifetime vehicle access isn't common in the film industry. While actors often receive gifts from productions—watches, props, sometimes even the clothes they wore on set—getting permanent access to luxury vehicles is exceptional.

It speaks to just how valuable Craig's Bond tenure was to Aston Martin. During his years as 007, the company went through financial difficulties, new ownership, and eventually an IPO. Through it all, the Bond association remained their most powerful marketing asset.

So while Craig may never again order a martini shaken-not-stirred on Her Majesty's secret service, he'll always be able to do so while arriving in an Aston Martin.