Looking to get an auto insurance quote in Canada? With regional rules and unique pricing factors, finding the right coverage isn’t always simple.
Navigating auto insurance in Canada can feel like a complex task, especially with different rules, pricing systems, and coverage requirements in each province. But if you want to get an auto insurance quote that truly reflects your needs—without overpaying—it’s essential to understand what goes into the process.
Whether you’re in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, or B.C., this guide will help you understand how to request a quote, what factors affect it, and how to choose the right policy for your budget and driving habits.
Is Auto Insurance Mandatory in Canada?
Yes, auto insurance is required by law in every Canadian province and territory. The type and minimum level of required coverage vary depending on where you live.
Mandatory coverage typically includes:
- Third-party liability (minimums vary by province; usually $200,000–$1,000,000)
- Accident benefits (for medical costs, income replacement, etc.)
- Uninsured motorist protection
- Direct compensation for property damage (not available in all provinces)
For example:
- Ontario requires at least $200,000 in third-party liability, plus accident benefits and DCPD
- British Columbia offers public insurance through ICBC, which includes basic coverage
- Quebec has a hybrid system: government coverage for personal injury, private for property damage
What Does «Getting a Quote» Really Mean?
To get an auto insurance quote, you provide details about yourself, your vehicle, and your driving history so that an insurer can calculate your estimated premium.
It’s not a final policy, but rather an estimate of what you’d pay based on the information provided. You can request quotes from:
- Direct insurance companies like Intact, Aviva, or Desjardins
- Brokers (e.g. Surex, ThinkInsure)
- Comparison platforms like Ratehub.ca, LowestRates.ca, or RATESDOTCA
Key Factors That Affect Your Auto Insurance Quote in Canada
Each insurer uses its own formula, but the following factors almost always influence your premium:
- Province/Territory – Rates and systems differ by region. Ontario has some of the highest premiums; Quebec among the lowest.
- Driver’s age and gender – Younger drivers and males typically pay more.
- Driving history – Accidents, tickets, and claims significantly raise your rates.
- Vehicle type and age – Sports cars cost more; older models may cost less to insure but may lack safety discounts.
- Annual mileage – High mileage = higher risk = higher quote.
- Insurance history – Gaps in coverage or recent cancellations can negatively impact your quote.
- Credit score – In some provinces (like Ontario and Alberta), credit-based scoring is restricted or not used, but it may factor in elsewhere.
Average Car Insurance Premiums by Province (2025)
As of early 2025, here are estimated annual premiums:
| Province | Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Ontario | $1,735 CAD |
| British Columbia | $1,630 CAD |
| Alberta | $1,550 CAD |
| Quebec | $820 CAD |
| Manitoba (MPI) | $1,320 CAD |
| Saskatchewan (SGI) | $1,210 CAD |
| Nova Scotia | $1,050 CAD |
| New Brunswick | $1,040 CAD |
(Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada, June 2025)
Best Companies to Get a Quote From in Canada
These providers consistently rank high for pricing, service, and claims satisfaction:
- Intact Insurance – Wide broker network, flexible coverage, mobile tools
- Belairdirect – Strong digital presence and competitive pricing
- Desjardins Insurance – Especially strong in Quebec and Ontario
- The Co-operators – Ideal for multi-policy bundling (home + auto)
- Aviva Canada – Offers customizable plans and strong claims support
- Sonnet Insurance – Fully online and transparent quoting process
- CAA Insurance – Discounts for safe drivers and CAA members
- SGI, MPI, ICBC – Government-run insurers in SK, MB, and BC respectively
How to Get an Auto Insurance Quote (Step-by-Step)
- Gather your details:
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN
- Current odometer reading
- Driving history for all drivers on the policy
- Use a comparison platform or contact brokers:
Platforms like Ratehub.ca or Surex.com allow you to compare multiple quotes in one place. - Customize your coverage:
Decide if you want:- Just liability (required minimum)
- Comprehensive (theft, vandalism, weather)
- Collision (your car’s damage in an accident)
- Add-ons like roadside assistance or rental coverage
- Review and adjust deductibles:
Higher deductibles = lower premiums, but more out-of-pocket after a claim. - Choose and apply:
Once you’ve compared options, select the best quote and proceed to purchase.
Tips to Lower Your Auto Insurance Quote in Canada
- Bundle policies (auto + home = discount)
- Use telematics: Programs like my Drive (Intact) or CAA Connect track driving behaviour for discounts
- Pay annually instead of monthly to avoid service fees
- Install anti-theft devices
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Take a certified driving course (especially for new drivers)
- Avoid unnecessary claims: Too many small claims can increase your quote long-term
Special Situations: Newcomers, Young Drivers, and Seniors
- Newcomers to Canada: May lack a Canadian driving record, so rates might be higher at first. Some insurers accept international experience with proof.
- Young drivers (under 25): Typically face higher premiums. Adding them as a secondary driver to a parent’s policy may help.
- Seniors (over 65): Rates may go up due to risk assessments, but discounts for safe drivers may apply.
Getting Quotes in Government-Run Systems
If you live in British Columbia, Manitoba, or Saskatchewan, you’ll deal with public insurers:
- ICBC (BC): Offers mandatory basic coverage; private insurers may offer optional extras
- MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance)
- SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance)
You can still request online quotes from these agencies or through brokers where allowed.
What Happens After You Accept a Quote?
- You’ll need to provide proof of identity and vehicle ownership
- Your insurer may request a vehicle inspection
- Policy documents are issued—coverage begins immediately or on a set date
- If switching insurers, don’t forget to cancel your previous policy (avoid overlap)
What If You Drive Without Insurance in Canada?
Driving without valid auto insurance can lead to:
- Fines up to $5,000
- Vehicle impoundment
- License suspension
- Criminal charges in serious cases
- Financial liability for all damages in a collision
Each province has its own penalties, but enforcement is strict nationwide.
Resources for More Help
- Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) – www.ibc.ca
- Financial Consumer Agency of Canada – www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency
- Your provincial regulator (e.g., FSRAO in Ontario, AMF in Quebec)
- Local brokers and agents
Final Thoughts
To get an auto insurance quote in Canada that fits your needs, take time to compare, understand your options, and ask questions. With regional variations, bundling opportunities, and new digital tools, Canadians have more power than ever to choose the right policy—and the right price.