High Risk Auto Insurance Ontario: Compare Lowest Rates

1-855-550-5515

Compare the lowest high risk auto insurance rates in Ontario - from all providers, fast.

Get high risk auto insurance from all providers

See all providers

Written by Nolan Wilson Updated on March 17, 2026 min read

We've got you covered for high risk auto insurance in Ontario

If you need high risk auto insurance in Ontario, ThinkInsure can help. We compare rates from every high risk auto insurance company in Ontario - so you get covered for the lowest rate possible, regardless of your driving history.

Drivers become high risk due to tickets, at-fault accidents, DUI charges, claims, or policy cancellations. Whatever your situation, you have the legal right to get insured. Our licensed RIBO brokers specialize in high-risk coverage and work with all non-standard providers to find you the most affordable policy.

Key things to know about high risk insurance

High risk auto insurance in Ontario can cost up to 300% more than standard coverage. The minimum estimated quote is $4,412 per year.
The average cost for high-risk auto insurance in Ontario is $7,142 per year. Rates vary significantly based on your driving record and insurer.
Drivers become high risk due to tickets, at-fault accidents, DUI charges, licence suspensions, or policy cancellations.
High-risk status is not permanent. Most drivers are in this category for 3 to 5 years. ThinkInsure will help you get back to standard coverage as quickly as possible.
ThinkInsure compares rates from ALL high risk auto insurance companies in Ontario. One call, every option, lowest rate.
All drivers in Ontario, including high risk drivers, have the legal right to obtain car insurance.

What is high risk auto insurance in Ontario?

High risk auto insurance in Ontario is specialized coverage for drivers who are considered a greater risk of filing a claim. It is also called non-standard insurance. Not all insurers offer it and those that do charge significantly higher premiums.

Drivers are placed in this category based on their driving record, claims history, and insurance payment history. Common reasons include multiple tickets, at-fault accidents, DUI convictions, licence suspensions, and policy cancellations.

Some insurers may refer to high-risk as:

Non-standard insurance
Substandard insurance
Difficult to place insurance
Specialty insurance

High risk status can also apply to other policy types, including home, commercial, and motorcycle insurance.

What you should know about high risk auto insurance

A single mistake, a ticket, an at-fault accident or a missed payment can result in being labelled a high risk driver. Dangerous driving habits like excessive speeding, careless driving, or distracted driving can also trigger the classification.

High risk car insurance is also called non-standard insurance in Ontario. It covers drivers who are statistically more likely to file a claim or default on payment. Not all insurers will offer a policy to high risk drivers. Those that do charge significantly higher premiums.

ThinkInsure works with every high risk insurer in Ontario. We won't turn you away.

Expert high risk auto insurance advice

As insurance brokers, we understand that life happens. Whether it's tickets, accidents, a DUI, or a missed payment, everyone deserves a second chance. Our team works with every high risk insurance company in Ontario. We're here to help you get the best rate, no matter your situation.

Neel Khan

Insurance Broker (RIBO)

Speak with a high risk insurance broker today!

Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm

Recent Ontario high risk auto insurance quotes

2025/07/12

High risk driver in TORONTO, ON with 1 ticket(s)
Vehicle: CHEVROLET CRUZE LT TURBO 4DR 2013
Jevco	$6,179
Coachman	$7,607
Echelon	$7,922
Pafco	$9,745
Savings from top high-risk insurers	$3,566

2025/07/08

High risk driver in MISSISSAUGA, ON with 2 accident(s)
Vehicle: HYUNDAI SONATA 2.0T 4DR 2017
Jevco	$7,081
Pafco	$10,548
Coachman	$10,922
Echelon	$14,179
Savings from top high-risk insurers	$7,098

2025/07/09

High risk driver in OTTAWA, ON with 2 ticket(s) and 1 accident(s)
Vehicle: TOYOTA TUNDRA LIMITED V8 CREWMAX 4WD 2008
Coachman	$3,412
Pafco	$3,512
Wawanesa	$3,865
Jevco	$3,865
Savings from top high-risk insurers	$453

2025/07/15

High risk driver in HAMILTON, ON with 2 accident(s)
Vehicle: KIA OPTIMA EX 4DR 2013
Pafco	$5,135
Jevco	$5,657
Coachman	$6,229
Echelon	$7,915
Savings from top high-risk insurers	$2,780

How does high risk auto insurance work?

High risk auto insurance works the same as a standard policy in Ontario, but it is issued by a smaller group of specialized insurers who accept non-standard drivers. You will be placed in this category after a serious driving conviction, payment issues, or a combination of driving record problems.

Most standard insurers will decline to quote you. Specialized high risk insurers like Jevco, Pafco, Echelon, and Coachman, will issue a policy, but at a significantly higher premium.

If no standard high risk provider will insure you, coverage is still available through the Facility Association which is a shared pool of Ontario insurers that guarantees coverage as a last resort. Facility insurance is the most expensive option, with premiums ranging from $7,000 to $12,000 or more depending on your situation.

How long will I be considered a high risk driver?

You will not always be classified as a high risk driver, this is a temporary status. Most drivers remain in the high risk category for 3 to 5 years, depending on the severity of the reason they were placed there. The transition back to standard coverage happens as tickets, accidents, and claims are removed from your record. Maintaining a clean record from this point forward is the fastest path back to normal rates.

You have protections and rights as a high risk driver

There are protections for your rights in place. The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO) works to protect consumers.

Who is most likely to need high risk auto insurance?

Certain individuals are more likely to fall within the high-risk classification. These are people who have a greater risk of a claim. They are:

Young and teen drivers
First-time drivers, new immigrant drivers
Drivers over 65
Drivers with a lapse in insurance coverage
Drivers with a DUI conviction
Drivers with multiple tickets or claims
Drivers with criminal driving convictions

How is high-risk car insurance different from standard insurance?

While the types of coverage you receive under high-risk car insurance are essentially the same as standard insurance, there are some differences. The main one is an insurer's reluctance to insure you because of your level of risk. Here are some ways it is different:

Fewer providers offer it: A select few insurers offer this type of coverage.
It is significantly more expensive: You could pay up to 300% more for your policy.
You have limited payment options: Some insurers require you to pay upfront.
There may be some limitations: Some coverage options may not be available.
You may have higher deductibles: Lower deductibles may not be an option.

Is high risk auto insurance the same across Canada?

Insurance is regulated at the provincial level, so how high-risk car insurance is treated will vary by province. Private insurers manage it. British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan have government-run programs. The rules are different in these provinces. How premiums are affected and how long you’ll be in the non-standard category differ from the other provinces.

5 star reviews for high risk auto insurance

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1579 Google reviews

We've helped thousands of high risk drivers get insured for a great price.

See all reviews

Jessica Trautmann

2026-03-12

Todd was fantastic to work with for my car insurance. He was very responsive with communication - explained everything without pressure and while I was waiting for a call back he took the courtesy to call to reassure me he didn't forget about me and was confirming something first. The whole process was fast and painless because of him, and ended up with a better rate. Reliable AND efficient.

Daniel Martyn

2026-03-03

I have been working with Gabe Petramala for both my business and auto insurance needs, and I highly recommend him. He is fantastic to work with—professional, responsive, and consistently efficient in getting the job done promptly. Patrick Vuong has also been very helpful throughout the process, and I would highly recommend him as well.

Drew Lang

2026-02-27

Todd at ThinkInsure made the hunt for my vehicle insurance easy. He shopped around for the best deal out there so that I didn't have to. If you're looking for insurance, you should give Todd a call!

Jasmine Tate

2026-02-12

Pretty good service. The agent I talked to was able to find me insurance pretty quickly and for not a bad price. They were also pretty friendly too.

Steve King

2026-02-06

I’ll be the first to admit it: I was lured away from ThinkInsure a while back by the promise of lower prices and better service. I’ve since realized the grass isn't always greener. After a nightmare experience with the other company's lack of support, I now truly see what quality customer service looks like. I’ve worked with Betsy and Jeff, in the past and returning to them has been the best move for my business. Betsy is looking after me now, and along with Jeff and Jennifer, they have been a powerhouse team. They stepped in to clean up the mess my previous providers left behind, handled complex cancellations, and even found me more competitive rates across the board. If you're a business owner, don't make my mistake—stick with the team that actually advocates for you. It’s great to be back with the ThinkInsure Commercial Team!

pluspuuhomes canada

2026-02-05

Betsy is the absolute best! What a terrific human! Very pleased with my experience!

Osman

2026-02-04

My agent was Sohel Rahman. Did a great job. Got me a policy on the same day, was clear and not confusing and also very helpful. I really feel like they helped me get the best possible policy. Highly recommend

E T

2026-02-02

Shubham Verma is a top notch agent and an asset to Think Insure.

How to find cheap high risk auto insurance in Ontario

Follow these steps to compare high risk auto insurance quotes in Ontario and get the lowest rate.

1) Begin

Enter your postal code and some basic information.

2) Enter your driving details

Provide your driving and vehicle information.

3) Compare high risk insurance quotes

See rates from the leading high-risk providers.

Choose your policy

Choose the lowest rate and confirm the details with us to get insured.

Get Quotes

How much is high risk auto insurance in Ontario?

High risk auto insurance in Ontario is considerably more expensive than a standard policy. High risk drivers can expect at least a 20% increase, with premiums potentially rising up to 300% or more depending on your situation.

Based on real quote data from ThinkInsure customers, the average cost of high risk auto insurance in Ontario is $7,142 per year (approximately $595/month)*.

An example of high-risk insurance costs

The average standard car insurance premium in Ontario is $2,164 per year (as of October 2025 via FSRAO). If your rates doubled due to high risk status, you would pay $4,328/year. If they tripled, $6,492/year. Rates are even higher in the GTA. Brampton, Mississauga, and Toronto consistently show the most expensive high risk premiums in the province.

The average cost of high risk auto insurance in Ontario ranges from approximately $4,412 to $9,030 per year, depending on the provider and the reason you are classified as high risk.

image of Ontario map and SUV with the average cost for high-risk auto insurance in Ontario being $7,142 per year or $595 per month.

How much are high risk car insurance monthly payments?

According to ThinkInsure customer quote data, high risk car insurance monthly payments in Ontario range from $515 to $880. The average monthly payment is $681 which is significantly higher than standard coverage.

The cities with the most expensive monthly payments are:

Richmond Hill - $880 per month
Brampton - $843 per month
Mississauga - $821 per month

The cities with the cheapest monthly high-risk payments are:

Ottawa - $515 per month
Cambridge - $516 per month
Kitchener - $576 per month

Here is a summary of how much high-risk insurance increases your monthly premiums based on your city:

City	Average monthly payment	Average high-risk monthly payment	Monthly payment difference	% increase compared to average monthly payment
Richmond Hill	$201	$880	$675	338%
Brampton	$241	$843	$602	250%
Mississauga	$202	$821	$619	306%
Markham	$194	$806	$612	315%
Toronto	$187	$798	$611	327%
Oakville	$162	$664	$502	310%
Milton	$185	$635	$450	243%
Hamilton	$187	$647	$460	246%
Windsor	$163	$677	$514	315%
London	$174	$644	$470	270%
Burlington	$147	$595	$448	305%
Oshawa	$195	$597	$402	206%
Newmarket	$172	$677	$505	294%
Kitchener	$171	$576	$405	237%
Cambridge	$170	$516	$346	204%
Ottawa	$142	$515	$373	263%

What are the types of high-risk insurance payment options?

High-risk drivers typically have two payment options. Insurers may request that you pay your premiums upfront, especially if you previously had payment issues. This can be a lot of money to secure a policy, especially if you have a major offence. Insurers can also ask you to pay monthly instalments in advance. Insurers have different policies about payments.

At ThinkInsure, we work with you to find an affordable payment option. We understand that mistakes happen and we will help you get insured and work toward getting back to standard coverage.

Why is high risk auto insurance so expensive?

High risk auto insurance is expensive because drivers in this category are statistically more likely to file a claim. Insurers perform detailed risk assessments and price policies to reflect the probability of a future claim.

The more severe the offence, a DUI versus a single speeding ticket, the higher the premium. A driver with multiple tickets, convictions, or claims in a short period is seen as a pattern risk, not a one-time event. This is why premiums can be 300% higher than standard coverage.

High risk auto insurance cost breakdown by reason in Ontario

The most common reasons for high risk auto insurance classification in Ontario are:

Traffic tickets
Car accidents
Licence suspensions
Policy cancellations (non-payment or fraud)

How much your premium increases depends on the specific reason and your overall record. Based on ThinkInsure customer quote data, here is what you can expect to pay:

Violation	Average high-risk premium	Premium increase compared to average	% increase compared to average
Tickets
1 ticket within the past 3 years	$7,424	$5,418	270%
2 tickets in 3 years	$7,641	$5,635	281%
3 tickets in 3 years	$7,801	$5,795	289%
Accidents
1 collision in past 3 years	$7,296	$5,290	264%
2 collisions in past 3 years	$7,719	$5,713	285%
3 collisions in past 3 years	$7,813	$5,807	290%
Cancellations
1 cancellation in past 3 years	$6,843	$4,837	241%
2 cancellations in past 3 years	$7,873	$5,867	292%
Suspensions
1 suspension in past 3 years	$7,060	$5,054	252%
2 suspensions in past 3 years	$7,587	$5,581	278%

High risk auto insurance rates by city in Ontario

ThinkInsure compiled high risk auto insurance rate data from Ontario's largest cities to identify where premiums are highest and lowest.

GTA cities dominate the most expensive list. Richmond Hill averages $10,559/year, Brampton $10,112/year, and Mississauga $9,856/year. Ottawa is the most affordable city on the list at $6,184/year on average.

See below for costs in your city:

City	Average standard premium	Average high-risk premium	Yearly premium difference	% increase compared to standard premium average
Richmond Hill	$2,417	$10,559	$8,142	338%
Brampton	$2,890	$10,112	$7,222	250%
Mississauga	$2,424	$9,856	$7,432	306%
Markham	$2,331	$9,666	$7,335	315%
Toronto	$2,246	$9,580	$7,334	327%
Oakville	$1,945	$7,973	$6,028	310%
Milton	$2,223	$7,623	$5,400	243%
Hamilton	$2,239	$7,761	$5,522	246%
Windsor	$1,961	$8,127	$6,166	315%
London	$2,082	$7,732	$5,650	270%
Burlington	$1,761	$7,144	$5,383	305%
Oshawa	$2,335	$7,164	$4,829	206%
Newmarket	$2,065	$8,123	$6,058	294%
Kitchener	$2,049	$6,909	$4,860	237%
Cambridge	$2,035	$6,191	$4,156	204%
Ottawa	$1,700	$6,184	$4,484	263%

Are you driving a high-risk vehicle?

The type of car you drive could land you in the high-risk category. Certain features, makes, and models are viewed as riskier by insurers. Here’s a list of vehicle-related factors that could greatly increase your premiums:

You drive a vehicle on the most stolen vehicle list.
You drive a sports car.
Your vehicle is classified as a high end luxury car
You have a foreign or rare car. These vehicles typically have significant repair and labour costs.
You drive an older car with minimal safety features.
You’ve made aftermarket vehicle modifications.
Your vehicle has a poor claims rating. Based on Canadian collision data from IBC.

Compare rates with all high risk auto insurance companies in Ontario

mobile phone comparing high risk insurance rates from multiple insurance companies

ThinkInsure works with the largest selection of high risk auto insurance companies in Ontario giving you the best chance of finding the lowest rate for your specific situation. Here are some of the insurers we work with:

Aviva Canada
Coachman Insurance (a subsidiary of SGI)
Echelon Insurance (Part of CAA)
Economical Insurance
Jevco Insurance (Part of Intact Financial)
Pafco Insurance
Pembridge Insurance
Perth Insurance (Part of Economical)
Facility Association (a risk-sharing pool of insurers)

Premiums by high risk car insurance companies in Ontario

How much you are quoted for high risk car insurance coverage depends on the insurance company. Here are the average high risk premiums by insurer:

Company	Annual	Quarterly	Monthly	Difference
All	$7,864	$1,966.00	$655.33
Coachman	$6,348	$1,587.00	$529.00	-19.27%
Echelon	$8,384	$2,096.00	$698.67	6.61%
Jevco Insurance	$6,905	$1,726.25	$575.42	-12.19%
Pafco Insurance	$7,113	$1,778.25	$592.75	-9.55%
Economical	$8,972	$2,243.00	$747.67	14.08

How can I get the cheapest high risk auto insurance in Ontario?

Getting the cheapest high risk auto insurance in Ontario comes down to three things: comparing quotes from every available provider, improving your driving record over time, and working with a specialized broker who knows the non-standard market.

Here are the most effective ways to lower your high risk auto insurance rate:

Complete driver training: Take a certified driving course and inform your advisor. This will qualify you for savings, especially if you are a new or young driver.
Take a defensive driving course: Extra driving courses could help young drivers under 25 save. For example, you could take a defensive or winter driving course. Receiving this training could qualify you for a discount. Check for approved classes and driving schools.
Drive an insurance-friendly vehicle: If you drive a sports car or an expensive vehicle, you may be considered a greater risk. Choose a vehicle that is known to be safe and not likely to get stolen.
Use a high risk insurance broker: ThinkInsure brokers specialize in non-standard coverage and work with every high-risk insurer in Ontario. We will find you the best available rate and advise you on how to return to standard coverage.
Boost your deductible: Increasing your insurance deductible to a higher amount will lower your premium. So, if your deductible is on the lower end, increase it. Just make sure you can pay that amount if you must file a claim.
Bundle: You can combine your home and auto insurance to reduce your premiums.
Avoid unnecessary claims: Too many claims can increase your payments. Can you afford the repairs? Does it make sense to file considering your deductible payment? Think twice before filing too many claims in a short timeframe.
Check before renewing: Always compare car insurance quotes and explore your options before renewing. Even if you need high-risk insurance, there may be ways for you to reduce your costs.
Try UBI: Usage based insurance (UBI) can help you save as much as 25%. Under the program, you are rewarded for good driving habits.
Know when tickets are coming off your record: It’s particularly important to know the dates when tickets and accidents will be removed from your record. This is when you can reduce your costs. Be sure to contact your agent or advisor when this date approaches.

Compare the best rates

One-stop access to compare rates from every high risk auto insurance company in Ontario.

Largest selection

The largest selection of high risk auto insurance companies in Ontario all in one place.

Get insured quickly

Start with a free estimate and then get insured quickly, often on the same day.

We don't judge

We don't judge and will help you get a policy when other providers won't.

High-risk experts

Our team of high-risk insurance brokers are experts in non-standard coverage.

Get back to savings

We'll assist in getting you back into regular insurance as soon as possible.

Will I always be considered a high-risk driver?

Being considered a high-risk driver is temporary. The time you’ll pay higher premiums depends on why you are considered high-risk. Getting out of the category can take up to three years or more. To move out of this category, you’ll need to stay claims-free and take steps to improve your standing with your insurer.

Moving back to standard insurance

Moving back to normal car insurance takes time. You’ll need to allow for tickets, convictions, and claims to come off your insurance record over time. The key is to have a clean record during this time.

Here are some things to do to get back into regular insurance as quickly as possible:

Accidents: It’s very important to re-establish a clean driving record. Drive safely, and avoid at-fault accidents and claims.
Obey road rules: You want to avoid getting rated for any traffic tickets. They can stay on your record for 3 to 6 years.
Never drive while drinking: Don't drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Pay on time: You don't want to have your insurance cancelled for non-payment.

Ontario high risk auto insurance FAQs

What is a high risk driver?

A high risk driver is a person with a poor insurance record. This can be due to driving violations, a bad payment history, fraud, or other situations. These drivers do not qualify for standard insurance and are required to get insured through a high-risk or sub-standard insurance company.

Even though you may be labelled high-risk, it doesn’t mean you always will. Over time, with an improved record, you can move back into regular insurance.

Is high risk car insurance more expensive than regular insurance?

Yes, high risk car insurance is more expensive than regular insurance. It is one of the most expensive types of auto coverage you can purchase. Premiums can be 2 or 3 times more expensive, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 or more.

How do you choose a high risk insurance broker in Ontario?

Working with high-risk insurance broker is the easiest way to get insured at the lowest rate. That is if you choose the right one. When considering your options, look for one who has partnerships with multiple providers, to give you a greater opportunity to find a better price.

Other things should factor into your decision. They include:

How many high-risk insurers do they have access to?
Can they help you transition back to standard insurance?
What level of customer service do they offer?
Can they help you get other types of insurance?
Do they offer claims assistance?
Do they offer other products and services you find of value?

Are high-risk and non-standard auto insurance the same thing?

High-risk and non-standard refer to the same type of coverage. As a high-risk driver, you will not qualify for regular insurance. So, you’ll need a non-standard or high-risk policy until you are in a situation to transition back to standard insurance.

What are the types of high-risk auto insurance coverage?

High-risk auto insurance in Ontario is similar to regular car insurance in Ontario and includes mandatory and optional types of coverage.

Mandatory high-risk auto insurance

The following coverage is required by law, and it is the minimum amount you need to drive a car:

Third-party liability

$200,000 in third-party liability is the minimum. This protects you if you cause property damage or injure another person. You also have the option to increase your coverage limit.

Accident benefits

With accident benefits, you get access to medical benefits and other compensation if you’re injured or killed in an accident.

Direct compensation property damage

Direct compensation property damage (DCPD)covers vehicle damage when you’re not at-fault for a collision.

Note: As of January 1, 2024, DCPD is no longer mandatory in Ontario. Drivers can opt-out using OPCF 49.

Uninsured motorist

Uninsured motorist coverage offers protection if an uninsured motorist hits you, such as a hit and run.

Optional high-risk auto insurance

This is additional protection you can add to your policy to customize it. Options include:

Collision

Accidents happen. Collision insurance protects against damage caused by a collision with another vehicle or object.

Comprehensive

Your vehicle could get damaged in many ways. Comprehensive insurance protects you from non-accident-related damage (theft, vandalism).

Specified perils

Are you looking to get coverage against specific threats? Specified perils protect against risks that are specifically listed in your plan.

All perils

Want to be protected from most risks? All perils coverage offers protection from all risks unless they are specifically excluded from your policy.

Endorsements

Insurance endorsements, also known as riders, allow you to add or remove certain types of protection. They make it easy for you to customize your insurance.

Note that your coverage options may be limited depending on your specific situation. Speak with our high-risk insurance brokers for advice or to have your policy questions answered.

I've been labelled a high-risk driver because of an at-fault accident. What if I disagree with my insurer's assessment of fault?

Causing a collision is one of the many reasons people fall into the high-risk category. Insurers review all accident claims and determine fault based on the actions surrounding the incident. You may be deemed wholly or partially at-fault. When this happens, you will likely be labelled a high-risk driver and see your rates significantly increase.

But what if you disagree with your insurer's fault determination? This decision can dramatically impact your insurance rates and driving record going forward. Fortunately, you can dispute the assessment. Speak with your claims adjuster first. Provide any additional information. They could reconsider their decision if you have new information. You can take your dispute to the insurer's complaint officer if there is still a disagreement.

We've got the lowest rates for high-risk auto insurance in Ontario

ThinkInsure is Ontario's leading high risk auto insurance broker. Compare free quotes online, or call 1-855-550-5515 - we'll find the lowest rate and get you insured, often the same day.

Get Quotes

Sources

* Based on data from customer quotes completed on ThinkInsure.ca between January 1, 2025, and May 15, 2025, for drivers considered high-risk in Ontario. Results can vary based on your specific situation.

Nolan Wilson

Content Marketing Manager

Nolan is a content marketing manager and writer at ThinkInsure. He has 15+ years of experience in the insurance industry, working with brokerages and direct insurers to create compelling insurance content, specializing in auto, home, and commercial.

Insurance Blog And News

Read our insurance blog to get helpful tips, information and news.

Rural road with many potholes filled with water

2026-03-09

High Risk Auto Insurance in Ontario