Quebec Car Insurance

Learn about how to get the best car insurance in Quebec

Quebec has the lowest car insurance in Canada. It is one of the great advantages of living and driving in La Belle province. Like many other things about the region, Quebec approaches auto insurance a little differently than the rest of the country.

The province operates using a hybrid system. They are the only province that uses public and private insurance systems. This has created ongoing savings for residents.

Here we will provide information about how car insurance works in the province. We’ll discuss how the province’s unique approach allows residents to get more affordable insurance.

NOTE: ThinkInsure does not currently offer auto insurance in Quebec.Learn about how car insurance works in Canada and how coverage differs from Quebec.

Key takeaways about Quebec car insurance

Quebec has the lowest car insurance rates in Canada
The province uses public and private insurance collectively
Insurance is mandatory. You can add optional coverage for added protection

How does Quebec car insurance work?

a car is passing on the road in Quebec City

Quebec has used a hybrid auto insurance system since 1978. This system has two main parts – public (section A) and private insurance (section B). Here is what is covered under each section:

Public car insurance in Quebec

Public car insurance is operated by the government agency Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). They set premiums for your public coverage and provide you with personal injury protection. Your public plan covers your accident benefits. If you were injured in an accident, the province would pay all parties' medical costs, regardless of who is at fault. You are not permitted to sue for damages as a result.

Accident benefits include:

Medical payments.
Funeral expenses are capped at $5,377.
Disability income: 90% of net annual income. This is capped at $76,500 per year.
Impairment benefits are capped at $382,500.

Private car insurance in Quebec

Private car insurance covers the property damage component of your policy. You can purchase this from private insurance companies that compete for your business. You can choose from a selection of optional solutions and endorsements.

Who regulates auto insurance rates in Quebec?

All insurers in Quebec are part of the Groupement des assureurs automobiles (GAA). They regulate pricing in the province using two tools:

The Automobile Statistical Plan: They assess the previous year’s premiums and claims to calculate the rate insurance companies should charge. If claims are higher than premiums, rates will increase.
The Fichier central des sinistres automobiles: This is a record of claims and accidents for drivers. GAA and private insurers use this to assess a driver’s risk before offering an estimate.

Does Quebec have no-fault insurance?

Yes. The province operates using a no-fault insurance system. For drivers, you deal with your own insurance company after an accident. It does not matter who is at fault.

Mandatory Quebec car insurance

You are legally required to have auto insurance in Quebec. At a minimum, you must carry third-party liability coverage. Here is what is included:

$50,000 in Third-party liability insurance
Uninsured motorist protection
Direct compensation property damage (DCPD) ($10,000 limit)

Optional car insurance in Quebec

You have the option to ramp up your level of protection with the following coverage:

Collison insurance: To repair your car if you are at fault.
Comprehensive insurance: Protects your vehicle from non-collision damage such as vandalism.
All perils: Includes collision, comprehensive, and theft protection.
Specified perils: Protection for perils specifically listed in your plan.

You can customize your plan using Quebec Endorsement Forms (QEF). Here are some of the most common endorsements:

QEF 5c - extends protection for a lease.
QEF 16 - suspension of coverage during vehicle storage.
QEF 17 - reinstatement of coverage after vehicle storage.
QEF 34 – accident benefits.
QEF 41 – changes to the deductible.
QEF 44 - use existing insurance in other countries.

How much is car insurance in Quebec?

Quebec has the most affordable car insurance in Canada. The average car insurance cost in Quebec is only $857 per year. This is less than $71 per month. Drivers in Montreal have some of the highest rates in the province, but they pale in comparison to other large cities in other provinces.

Since 2008, rates have remained consistent. They have risen slightly during this time, only increasing by $10 total.

How do Quebec car insurance rates compare to other provinces?

Drivers pay significantly less for insurance. They pay about $400 less per year than the national average. Auto insurance in Ontario and B.C. is around $1,000 more per year than in Quebec.

Factors impacting Quebec car insurance

No two drivers are the same, and neither are your insurance needs. Here are some of the main factors that will have an impact on your estimate:

Your city and neighbourhood.
Your licensing levels.
If you have completed driver training.
Driving record.
Age and gender.
How much you drive and how you use your automobile.
Policy type and limits.

Tips to get the lowest car insurance in Quebec

If you want to get the absolute best car insurance rates in Quebec, make sure you do the following to reduce how much you pay:

Comparison shop for optional coverage.
Take advantage of insurance discounts for multi-car and home bundles.
Avoid making too many claims.
Keep a clean driving record.
Drive an insurance-friendly vehicle.
Make sure you do not miss an insurance payment.
Work with an insurance broker.

Quebec auto insurance FAQs

Is car insurance free in Quebec?

No, Quebec car insurance is not free. However, the province’s public insurance plan covers a portion of accident benefits. Residents pay the lowest premiums in the country.

Why is car insurance so low in Quebec?

There are a variety of reasons why Quebec residents pay less. First, they use a hybrid system. Under this system, private insurers do not have to pay the accident benefits. This is covered through public insurance by SAAQ. The province also has much lower limits on liability coverage than other provinces. These factors contribute to the lower rates.

Can you drive without insurance in Quebec?

Driving without insurance in Quebec is illegal and it will cost you. If you are caught driving without coverage, you are subject to a fine of $2,800. If you are involved in an accident and do not have insurance, your licence will automatically be suspended.

Who can drive my car under my insurance in Quebec?

You are permitted to allow other licensed drivers to operate your vehicle. If they damage your car in an accident, you will receive compensation if they are not at fault. Check your policy to verify what is and is not covered if another person drives your vehicle.

Do you need private car insurance in Quebec?

Yes. You are required to carry civil liability insurance with at least $50,000 in coverage. You get this from a private insurance company.

How long does an accident stay on your record in Quebec?

Drivers are subject to demerit points. If you are involved in an accident, these will be added to your driving record. Demerits stay on your record for two years. Depending on your insurance provider, an at-fault accident can stay on your record anywhere from 6 to 10 years. A ticket will stay on your record for three years.

Is Quebec car insurance valid in Ontario?

Yes. It is valid if you travel out of the province. Speak with your insurer about any out-of-province travel to ensure you have the right coverage in place.

Are winter tires mandatory in Quebec?

You are legally required to install winter tires in Quebec. They need to be on your vehicle from December 1 until March 15 at a minimum. You are subject to a fine of $200 to $300 if you are caught driving without winter tires.

Does Quebec have a graduated driver's licensing system?

The province has a graduated licensing system (GLS). At 16, you can start the three-step process to becoming fully licensed. Here is how it works:

Class 5 Learners (level 1): You must be 16. If you are under 18, you require parental consent. You must complete the required questionnaire and register for an accredited driving course. Complete the Road Safety Education Program and pass a written test about road rules. You must be accompanied by a licensed driver. Zero BAC.
Class 5 Probationary Licence (level 2): You must have your learners for 10 months. You need to pass the first SAAQ road test and have fewer than 4 demerits on your record. Zero BAC.
Class 5 Regular Licence (level 3): You must have your probationary licence for 24 months. You will need to pass a 30-minute road test and a 1-hour knowledge test through SAAQ. You need to be suspension-free for 24 months.

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