ICBC Auto Coverage for British Columbians

Get a quote for your mandatory ICBC insurance, including your choice of optional coverages.

Lion's Gate Bridge in Vancouver bustling with traffic, highlighting the importance of car insurance.

How Does Auto Insurance Work in BC?

At InsureBC, we can help you save money on your car insurance. We specialize in both private and ICBC auto insurance and will work with you to ensure you have options when it comes to your optional auto insurance. We can shop around for you to make sure you receive the lowest car insurance rate in BC. We will also ensure you are aware of exactly what’s covered and for how much, given the various BC car insurance quotes, we will present to you.

Starting May 1, 2021, ICBC has launched Enhanced Care Coverage. On average, drivers will save 20% on their full ICBC car insurance annual premiums and all British Columbians will have access to better care and recovery benefits if they’re hurt in an accident – regardless of who was responsible for the crash. To find out how much you can save and to learn more about Enhanced Care and changes to your Auto Insurance visit the ICBC website.

Auto Insurance Renewal

Many drivers in British Columbia are now eligible to renew their car insurance online, provided they meet the ICBC Online renewal criteria. Those individuals with a renewal date of May 1st or later can start this online renewal process 45 days prior to their existing policy expiring.This process is entirely new in BC, as it marks the first time that ICBC policy holders can renew their car insurance online at their own convenience. However, rest assured that as your broker, we are still here to assist you every step of the way. We’ll be reviewing your renewals and answering your questions when you need us to. We’ll make sure your coverage matches your insurance needs.

How Do I Get Auto Insurance in BC?

We have 80 office locations throughout BC that offer ICBC insurance. With most open 6 or 7 days a week, that means there’s always a location nearby to assist you. We also have a number of offices that offer delivery services, so you don’t even have to leave your home to get your car insured.

Auto Insurance Key Features

Getting a car insurance quote in Canada works differently depending on the province in which you reside. In BC, there are two components to your Auto insurance policy. Basic Autoplan insurance is the minimum liability insurance coverage that a vehicle owner must purchase from the Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC) before a motor vehicle can be operated on a BC highway.

Although the minimum required by law varies in different jurisdictions, in British Columbia the minimum limit for Third Party Legal Liability coverage is $200,000 for each vehicle (not including taxis and limousines).

Optional Autoplan insurance includes a variety of additional coverages that a vehicle owner may purchase. For more information regarding coverages included as well as optional coverages please visit our Optional Auto page or the ICBC website.

Here are a few details on auto insurance coverages:

Policy documents illustration, confirming coverage for crash responsibility

Protection if you're responsible for a crash

Home Office Contents Coverage – provides protection for all your items and belongings used for business purposes out of your home

illustration of basic vehicle damage coverage

Basic vehicle damage coverage

Commercial General Liability Coverage – pro­vides cov­er­age for bod­ily injury and/or prop­erty dam­age, per­sonal injury as well as tenants legal lia­bil­ity

 Illustrated car with legal expense icons, estimating coverage costs in British Columbia.

Protection where local laws can affect your claim

Legal Expense Insurance – covers costs associated with legal expenses coming from disbursements, court costs, witness fees, and adverse costs if a judge orders you to pay the other party’s legal fees.

Reuqest an Auto Insurance Quote Online

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Girl in car observing factors impacting car insurance, highlighting various elements influencing coverage rates.

What Factors Affect Your Insurance Rate?

Use of Vehicle

Insurance companies often consider the driver's experience level when determining insurance premiums, as more experienced drivers generally have a lower risk of being involved in an accident.

Driver Experience

Insurance companies often consider the driver's experience level when determining insurance premiums, as more experienced drivers generally have a lower risk of being involved in an accident.

Location in BC

The location where you live can also impact your insurance rate. In British Columbia, different territories are assigned ratings based on the potential risk of a claim. For example, a highly populated urban area may have a higher risk of vandalism claims compared to a more rural area in northern BC

Vehicle Drivers

Who is driving your vehicle also plays a role in determining your insurance rate. The driver's level of experience and driving record can affect the overall risk of your vehicle

Crash/Accident History

It's obvious, but it's worth repeating: the more accidents you've been involved in, the more expensive your insurance will be. Being a safe driver pays off in the long run

Customer Testimonials

At InsureBC, we value the relationships we build with our clients. Don't just take our word for it – see what they have to say about their experiences working with our team of expert insurance brokers.

Frequently asked Questions

What other types of coverage can I get from ICBC?

In addition to basic auto insurance, ICBC also provides optional coverage such as collision, comprehensive, all-perils, and specified perils insurance.

What should I do if I get into an accident?

After any emergency medical care, contact your broker or ICBC directly and follow the instructions provided by their representatives. Be sure to keep detailed record of all details and expenses associated with the incident.

How Much Does Auto Insurance Cost in BC?

ICBC bases your car insurance premiums on a variety of factors including the principal operator’s driving experience, the territory of operation of the vehicle, the location of the vehicle when not in use, the use of the vehicle (pleasure only, business, artisan, etc.), the type of car, and any applicable discounts that may apply. If you have more than 10 years driving experience and a good driving record, a private carrier may provide better value for your optional coverages. Ask one of our agents to see if private auto insurance is right for you. Car insurance is expensive in Canada, particularly if you have recently obtained your driver’s license and do not have any driving experience. Let one of our licensed team members assist you or your teenager with getting the best car insurance quotes for first-time drivers. They will reach out to all applicable insurance companies to find a good product for young drivers, while keeping the insurance cost as low as possible, saving you money.

Can I switch between ICBC auto coverage plans?

Yes, you can switch between ICBC auto insurance plans at any time. However, you may incur additional charges or fees if you want to make changes to your existing policy. Read more: https://www.icbc.com/insurance/Pages/FAQs.aspx

What does basic auto coverage from ICBC provide?

Basic coverage from ICBC includes third-party liability, accident benefits and uninsured motorist protection.

Are there any discounts available on ICBC auto insurance?

Yes, drivers can take advantage of several ICBC discounts such as good driving record, safe driver discount and low-risk vehicle discount.

Looking to File a Claim?

Our dedicated claims department is committed to making the claims process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you need to file a claim for your home, vehicle, or business, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.