Are you a new driver looking for car insurance?

In Canada, newly licenced drivers are often referred to as new or first-time drivers. However, the definition of "new driver" for car insurance purposes varies, ranging from the first year of driving to nine years of experience, depending on the insurer. They can also be new to driving - typically mature drivers who are over 25 years old.

New and young drivers are often confused. New drivers are different from young drivers, who fall in the 16-24 age range. It is also commonly called first time car insurance.

What you need to know about car insurance for new drivers:

  • New drivers will pay more for insurance compared to the average driver. The average cost for new drivers insurance in 2025 is $2,205.
  • New drivers in Ontario can expect to pay an average of $2,260 annually in their first year, decreasing to $2,106 by their eighth year of driving.
  • The most expensive insurance is for those aged 20-30, costing around $2,646 annually.
  • New driver car insurance premiums range from a low of $1,777 annually in Burlington to a high of $2,996 annually in Brampton.
  • Annual car insurance premiums for new drivers are lowest with a clean driving record ($2,217 annually) but significantly increase with accidents or tickets ($2,834 annually).