In Canada, you can sometimes get car insurance without a driver’s licence, but only in specific situations. Insurers typically require at least one licensed driver listed on the policy, even if the policyholder does not hold a licence.
While most auto insurance policies are designed for licensed drivers, there are situations where an unlicensed person can legally own, register, and insure a vehicle. Whether you’ve had your licence suspended, are learning to drive, own a car that someone else drives, or want to maintain coverage on a vehicle you don’t personally operate, understanding the driver’s licence rules is essential.
Requirements For Car Insurance In Canada
Every province has different restrictions when it comes to obtaining car insurance. However, some restrictions are universal. For those getting insurance, a driver’s licence is generally one of the main requirements. To obtain car insurance in Canada, you will generally need:
- A car that has been registered in the province where you live
- Proof of residency in the province in which you are insuring the car
- Information about who will be driving it
- A valid licence from at least one listed driver on the auto insurance policy.
Crucial Note: Insurers require a valid driver on record to ensure the vehicle isn’t being driven illegally by an unlicensed policyholder. Failing to disclose who is actually driving can result in a voided policy for material misrepresentation.
Drive with Confidence
Request your free car insurance quote now and get the coverage you deserve.
Can I Get Insurance Without a Driver’s Licence?
Technically speaking, you can get car insurance without a licence, but it may depend on different circumstances. In most cases in Ontario, insurance companies will not issue a policy unless a licensed driver is connected to the vehicle. If you list all licensed drivers on the policy and those drivers operate the car, you should not encounter any issues.
For example, if you buy a car for your spouse or child, you can own the vehicle while assigning them as the primary driver. In some cases, particularly in Ontario, insurers may charge higher premiums for this arrangement. If you do not have a driver’s licence, ensure that you properly list all qualified drivers on the policy.
Why Insure A Car Without A Driver’s Licence?
There are many situations in which someone may require car insurance without holding a driver’s licence. Let’s take a look at some examples.
1. Owning A Vehicle You Don’t Drive
You may own a car but have no intention of driving it yourself. In some cases, it may be a classic car you’re restoring. In other cases, you may be keeping a car for a family member to use in the future. Even if you don’t get behind the wheel, you’ll need car insurance to protect it against theft, fire, or other damage—and owners without a driver’s licence must insure stored vehicles.
2. Dealing With Medical Conditions Which Affect Driving
Unfortunately, many health issues can leave you unable to drive for a period of time, even if you still own a car. If you plan to get back on the road once cleared by your doctor, maintaining car insurance in the meantime can prevent any gaps in coverage. In many cases, gaps can result in premiums increasing, so do not let a lapsed driver’s licence stop your protection.
3. Having A Suspended Driver’s Licence
Having a suspended licence is also a reason you may have insurance, but lack a licence. Even if authorities suspend your licence, you should keep your car insured. It is especially important to keep the vehicle protected if someone else in your household is using it while you’re unable to drive. With this in mind, insurers may refuse to cover a car that no one uses, especially when the policy does not include a valid driver’s licence.
4. Providing Car Insurance For Family Members Or Employees
In most cases, parents buy cars for their teenagers or young adults who have just received their licences. However, the registration and car insurance may remain in the parents’ names. In some cases, small business owners may insure vehicles that their employees drive. In both cases, the policyholder may not have a driver’s licence. Still, the insurer will cover the vehicle because the policy lists licensed drivers, who must provide their licences as required by the insurer.
Bundle All of Your Policies for Maximum Savings!
Speak with an isure broker to find out how.
Keeping Your Car Secure When You Aren’t Driving
As mentioned above, you can technically purchase car insurance without a licence. Protecting your vehicle with the right car insurance is critical to keeping it safe and secure. Even when people are not using them, cars can still sustain damage, attract vandalism, or be stolen. Without coverage, these can become a massive financial burden. Ensuring your protection, with or without an active driver’s licence, makes good sense for vehicle owners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance Without a Licence
Do you need a driver’s licence to insure a car in Canada?
Yes, you can get car insurance without a licence in Canada. However, most insurers require at least one licensed driver to be listed on the policy. The policyholder does not always need to be the licenced driver.
Why would someone without a licence need car insurance?
People without a licence may still require car insurance if they own a vehicle they do not regularly drive. Alternatively, they may be unable to drive due to a medical issue, have a suspended licence, or are insuring a car for a family member.
Can you insure a car you don’t regularly drive?
Yes. You can insure a car you don’t drive if it is stored, used by a family member, or operated by another licensed driver listed on the policy. In most cases, coverage will help you protect the vehicle from theft, fire, vandalism or other types of damage.
Will my insurance cost more if the policyholder does not have a driver’s licence?
Yes, there is a good chance it can. In some cases, premiums may be higher if the primary driver is high-risk or newly licensed, or if the policy places responsibility on a different driver.
Bundle All of Your Policies for Maximum Savings!
Speak with an isure broker to find out how.
Staying Protected Without A Licence
While getting car insurance without a driver’s licence may seem unusual, it’s entirely possible in certain circumstances. Because insurance requirements can vary by province and insurer, it’s always a good idea to speak with an insurance professional about your specific situation.
Whether you’re protecting a vehicle during a licence suspension or insuring a vehicle for a family member, maintaining the right coverage can help protect your car and provide valuable peace of mind, no matter your driver’s licence status.
If you have ever borrowed a friend’s car or rented Read more
Charged with impairment behind the wheel? We've got the key Read more
Have you been labelled a high-risk driver? We've got various Read more
