Is there private car insurance in British Columbia?
Yes, but not for mandatory coverage. You can purchase additional or optional insurance through private insurance companies. You can buy collision, comprehensive, theft, fire, extra third-party liability, and other optional coverage through private insurers. Shop around to find the best deal.
What is the difference between ICBC and private auto insurance in B.C.?
ICBC is the only source for mandatory auto insurance. For optional protection, drivers can purchase it from them or private companies, such as CAA Insurance, Intact Insurance, and Aviva Insurance. Private insurers can only compete to provide optional coverage.
British Columbia car insurance premium considerations
ICBC uses the following factors to determine car insurance in B.C.:
- How you use your vehicle: Pleasure, commute, business, delivery.
- Where you live: Traffic and driving risks vary across the province.
- Insurance and claims history: A crash-free record will qualify you for an Autoplan discount.
- Level of protection: The add-ons you choose will increase your rates.
- Your deductible: Increase your deductible to lower how much you pay.
- The vehicle you drive: The make, model, age, repair fees, and other factors will affect premiums.
How can I get more affordable car insurance in B.C.?
Even though rates are the highest in Canada, there are still ways you can save. Here are some important tips to get better premiums :
- Keep a clean driving record
- Stay claims free
- Make your payments on time and in advance
- Complete driver training
- Install winter tires
- Combine home and car insurance
How would private auto insurance companies in B.C. help lower rates?
Allowing private auto insurance companies to offer mandatory plans would give drivers more options. The ability to compare quotes would lower premiums.
According to an IBC poll:
- “89% of BC drivers believe they can shop around and save money if given the option to choose their car insurance provider.”
- “85% of British Columbians believe that competition provides a powerful incentive for a company to keep prices down and to deliver the best service possible, and that car insurance is no exception to this rule.”
How to renew car insurance in British Columbia
You can renew your Autoplan policy up to 44 days before it expires. Before you renew, you will have to pay off any fines or penalties you have accumulated.
You can renew your ICBC policy online if there is one driver and you don't plan to make changes to your plan.
How to get a B.C. driver’s licence
British Columbia uses a graduated licensing program (GLP). It’s similar to Ontario’s graduated licensing system. Drivers must complete a three-step program to become fully licenced drivers. Here is an overview of how it works :
- Learner's licence (or level one): You must be 16 years old. You must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about the rules of the read. You need to pay the administrative fee and cannot drive with alcohol in your system.
- Novice licence eligibility criteria: You must have 1 year of supervised practice and pass the Class 7 road test. You need to pay the administrative fee and cannot drive with alcohol in your system.
- Full licence (or level three): You must complete 2 years of safe driving. This can be lowered to 18 months if you completed an ICBC-approved driving program. You must pass the Class 5 road test and pay the administrative fee.
