Cryptic crossword clue
Sanctions optical aids, including insurance cover to begin with 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word LICENSES

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Sanctions" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case sanctions = licenses.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does LICENSES mean?

LICENSES noun
  1. A legal document giving official permission to do something; a permit.
  2. The legal terms under which a person is allowed to use a product, especially software.
  3. Freedom to deviate deliberately from normally applicable rules or practices (especially in behaviour or speech).
  4. Excessive freedom; lack of due restraint.
  5. Short for driver's license.
LICENSES verb
  1. To give a formal (usually written) authorization.
  2. Authorize officially.

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