Yes, you can have auto insurance from another province in Canada. However, it is important to note that each province has its own specific rules and regulations regarding auto insurance, so it’s important to ensure that your coverage meets the minimum legal requirements of the province where you are driving.
If you are a resident of one province but frequently drive in another province, it may be beneficial to obtain additional coverage from a licensed insurance provider in that province. This will ensure that you have adequate coverage for any incidents that may occur while driving in that province.
It’s always a good idea to consult with a licensed insurance professional to determine what type of coverage is best for your specific needs and circumstances.
Pros and Cons of getting Auto Insurance from Another Province
Pros of getting Auto Insurance from Another Province:
- Lower Premiums: Depending on the province, auto insurance premiums can vary significantly. If you live in a province with higher premiums, you may be able to save money by obtaining coverage from a province with lower premiums.
- Improved Coverage: Depending on the province, the minimum legal requirements for auto insurance coverage can vary. By obtaining coverage from a different province, you may be able to get better coverage at a lower cost.
- Flexibility: If you frequently travel between provinces, having auto insurance from another province can offer greater flexibility and peace of mind.
Cons of getting Auto Insurance from Another Province:
- Compliance with Local Regulations: It’s important to ensure that your auto insurance coverage meets the minimum legal requirements of the province where you are driving. If your coverage does not meet these requirements, you may be subject to fines and penalties.
- Claims Processing: If you have an accident in a province different from the one where you have insurance, there may be issues with processing your claim. This is because each province has its own insurance regulator and claims process, which can make it more difficult to get the coverage you need.
- Cost: Although you may be able to save money on premiums by obtaining coverage from another province, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing and maintaining coverage from a different province.
Can a vehicle be registered in two provinces?
In Canada, it is generally not allowed for a vehicle to be registered in two provinces at the same time. Each vehicle must have a single registration in the province where it is primarily kept and used. The registered owner of a vehicle must also be a resident of that province. If you move to a different province, you will need to re-register your vehicle in the new province and ensure that your insurance coverage meets the minimum requirements for that province.
Do I need to change my car insurance if I move to another province?
Yes, if you move to another province in Canada, you will need to change your car insurance to ensure that it complies with the minimum insurance requirements in your new province of residence. Each province in Canada has its own set of insurance regulations and minimum insurance requirements, so it is important to research and understand the specific requirements in the province you will be living in. This will help you to find a car insurance policy that meets your needs and provides you with the appropriate level of coverage for your situation. It is also important to inform your insurance company of your move, as this can affect the premium you are charged for your insurance policy.
How long can you drive in provinces with out-of-province plates
In Canada, there is no specific federal law that regulates the time period a vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in a province. However, most provinces have their own regulations and the time limit can vary. Here’s a summary of some of the provinces:
- Ontario: A vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in Ontario for a period of up to 60 days.
- Quebec: A vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in Quebec for a period of up to 7 days.
- British Columbia: A vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in British Columbia for a period of up to 30 days.
- Alberta: There is no specified time limit for a vehicle with out-of-province plates to be driven in Alberta.
- Manitoba: A vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in Manitoba for a period of up to 3 months.
- Saskatchewan: A vehicle with out-of-province plates can be driven in Saskatchewan for a period of up to 90 days.
It’s important to note that these time limits may be subject to change and it’s best to check with the specific province’s Ministry of Transportation for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to register your vehicle in the province you reside in as soon as possible to avoid any potential issues.
Auto Insurance from Another Province FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about auto insurance from another province in Canada:
- Can I use my auto insurance from one province in another province in Canada? If you move to a different province, you will need to obtain auto insurance in the new province. Your existing insurance policy may provide temporary coverage for a limited time (usually 30 days) when you move to a new province, but you will need to obtain a new policy in the new province to continue driving legally.
- Will my auto insurance rate change if I move to a different province in Canada? Auto insurance rates can vary depending on the province you live in, so your rate may change when you move to a different province. Factors that can affect the rate include the level of risk in the new province, the number of insurance claims in the area, and the cost of repairs and medical expenses in the new province.
- Can I keep my current auto insurance policy if I move to a different province temporarily? If you move to a different province temporarily (such as for work or school), you may be able to keep your current auto insurance policy, but you will need to inform your insurance company of your new address and the length of your stay in the new province. Your insurance company may require you to obtain additional coverage if you plan to stay in the new province for an extended period of time.
- How do I obtain auto insurance in a different province in Canada? To obtain auto insurance in a different province, you can contact insurance companies directly or work with an insurance broker. You will need to provide personal and vehicle information, as well as your driving record, to obtain a quote and purchase insurance.
- Will my driving record from another province affect my auto insurance rate in a new province? Your driving record from another province may be considered when calculating your auto insurance rate in a new province. Factors that can affect your rate include the number of insurance claims you’ve had, the number of demerit points on your license, and any convictions or suspensions on your record.
- Will my auto insurance cover me if I travel to a different province in Canada? If you travel to a different province in Canada, your auto insurance should provide coverage, but the specifics of your coverage may vary depending on the province. You should check with your insurance company to determine the level of coverage you have when traveling to a different province.
- Can I change my auto insurance policy to a different province mid-term? If you move to a different province in the middle of your auto insurance policy term, you can typically change your policy to the new province, but you may need to pay a penalty or administrative fee to do so. You should contact your insurance company to make the change.
- How can I compare auto insurance rates across different provinces in Canada? To compare auto insurance rates across different provinces in Canada, you can use online comparison tools or work with an insurance broker who is licensed in multiple provinces. Be sure to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best rate for your needs.
- Do auto insurance requirements differ between provinces in Canada? Yes, auto insurance requirements can differ between provinces in Canada. For example, some provinces have government-run insurance programs, while others allow private insurance companies to provide coverage. The level of coverage required by law may also vary between provinces.
- Can I use my auto insurance from another country in Canada? No, you cannot use your auto insurance from another country in Canada. You will need to obtain auto insurance in Canada to legally drive on Canadian roads.
- Can I have auto insurance policies from different provinces in Canada? No, you cannot have auto insurance policies from different provinces in Canada. You are required to have auto insurance from the province in which you are primarily located and driving your vehicle.
- How can I find out what the auto insurance requirements are in a new province? If you are moving to a new province and need to obtain auto insurance, you can check with the provincial insurance regulator to find out what the auto insurance requirements are. You can also contact insurance companies directly or work with an insurance broker who is licensed in the new province.
- Can my auto insurance policy cover me when I drive in the United States? If you have auto insurance in Canada, it may provide coverage when you drive in the United States, but the specifics of your coverage may vary. You should check with your insurance company to determine the level of coverage you have when driving in the United States.
- Can I get auto insurance coverage for a rental car in a different province? If you rent a car in a different province and need auto insurance coverage, you can purchase coverage from the rental car company or from a third-party provider. This coverage can help protect you in the event of an accident or other covered event while you’re driving the rental car.
- How long does it take to obtain auto insurance in a different province in Canada? The time it takes to obtain auto insurance in a different province can vary depending on the insurance company and the information you provide. Some insurance companies may be able to provide a quote and issue a policy within a few hours, while others may take several days to process your application.
- Will my auto insurance coverage change if I move to a different province? Yes, your auto insurance coverage may change if you move to a different province. This is because different provinces have different requirements and regulations for auto insurance coverage. You may need to adjust your coverage levels to meet the requirements of your new province.
- Can I obtain auto insurance from a different province than the one I’m living in? You are required to have auto insurance from the province in which you are primarily located and driving your vehicle. If you live in one province and drive your vehicle primarily in another province, you may need to obtain auto insurance from the province where you primarily drive.
- What information do I need to provide to obtain auto insurance in a different province? To obtain auto insurance in a different province, you will need to provide personal information such as your name, address, and date of birth, as well as information about your vehicle, such as the make, model, and year. You will also need to provide your driving history, including any accidents or traffic violations.
- Can I transfer my auto insurance policy to a different province? If you move to a different province, you will need to obtain auto insurance in the new province. You may be able to transfer some of your existing coverage or discounts to the new policy, but you will need to work with your insurance company to make the transition.
- How can I find a reputable auto insurance company in a different province? To find a reputable auto insurance company in a different province, you can check with the provincial insurance regulator, read online reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends and family. You can also work with an insurance broker who is licensed in the new province to help you find the best coverage for your needs.
I have a recreational vehicle which I store and use in a different province then where I live. The plates are the same as the province it is stored in.
It is only used 2-3 wks a year
Is there a special insurance I can get in that province specifically for the short period of time I am using it
I too have the same situation. A vehicle in BC and another in Ontario. One would think information would be readily available but I’m getting nowhere.
Apparently it’s not a problem if you’re not Canadian and own cars in different provinces – some kind of international license/registration thing. It would seem car rental agencies are able to do it as well… In the US, I understand the recommendation is to insure your cars in the states they (the car) resides. That makes sense.
I just can’t imagine that it can’t be done. There must be other Canadians that have done this, so why the surprising lack of information?
I’m beginning to think it’s some kind of “primary residence” dependency and that the only way around it is to establish a company in the 2ndary province and insure the vehicle under that company’s name.
Anyhow, any info would be greatly appreciated.
Good luck everyone.
Did you get a reply? We are in the same situation
i have a car insurance can i use that car insurance to other province? e.g. prince Edward island to Ontario?
HI there,
My official residence is now in Ontario (with a lease as well). However I do not need my own car here, and when i commute back to Quebec, where I have my car, I use it there, b/c i need it there (house is not accessible by public transport as my residence is here in Toronto). Can I continue my insurance there, while having my official residence in Ontario?
(EDIT) HI there,
My official residence is now in Ontario (with a lease as well). However I do not need my own car here, and when i commute back to Quebec to visit my owned house, where I have my car, I use it there, b/c i need it there (house is not accessible by public transport as my residence is here in Toronto). Can I continue my insurance *and drivers’s license* there, while having my official residence in Ontario? And tied to this question: if my driver’s license address MUST reflect my official residence, will my rates change accordingly even if my car is not presently used in this province Ontario? Basically I officially live in a province where my own car is not being used.
I live in Ontario, and have a car and insurance. I have friends who are snowbirds and live in BC. They come for a couple months to Quebec and I would like to have them on my insurance so that I can lend them my car – I don’t use my much in the summer. Can I do this?