What's the age limit for classic car insurance?

If you own a classic, collector, or vintage car, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly protected—and that’s where classic car insurance comes in. Unlike standard auto insurance in Canada, this type of coverage is specifically designed for antique and collectible vehicles.

But before you sign up, there’s one important thing to know: the age limit. In most cases, insurance companies in Canada require a car to be at least 15 years old to qualify as a classic and 25 years old to qualify as an antique, though there are exceptions. Here, we explore classic car insurance and how to qualify.

What is classic car insurance?

Classic car insurance, also known as collector car insurance, is designed specifically for vintage, collectible, and rare cars, giving them the special coverage they deserve. Unlike standard auto insurance, which is built for everyday vehicles, this type of policy takes into account the unique value and needs of classic vehicles.

Does my car qualify for classic car insurance?

Owning a classic car is more than just having a vehicle. It’s a passion that connects enthusiasts all across Canada. But when it comes to protecting these prized possessions, not just any insurance policy will do. Classic car insurance is designed specifically for vintage and collectible cars, but not every vehicle qualifies. Here's how to tell if your car makes the cut:

Age

In most cases, your car needs to be at least 15 years old to qualify for classic car insurance. But keep in mind, different insurers have different rules. Some might require the car to be at least 20 years old, while others may require it to be between 20 and 30 years old.

That said, there are plenty of exceptions. Even if your car isn’t technically considered a classic, some insurers might still cover it if it has collectible value or limited-edition status. If your vehicle is rare, unique, or highly sought after, it could still qualify for classic car insurance, so it’s always worth checking with your provider. Not sure if your car qualifies? Just reach out to an insurance advisor at BrokerLink, and we’ll help you figure it out.

Storage

Most classic car insurance policies require your vehicle to be stored in a secure, enclosed space when it’s not on the road, like a garage, carport, or storage facility. Keeping it protected from the elements helps maintain its condition and lowers the risk of damage or theft, which is key to preserving its value over time.

Condition

While storage is important, insurers may also take a close look at your car’s condition before approving coverage. Classic cars are generally expected to be well-maintained, restored to their original specs, and in good working order. Keeping your car in top shape not only helps maintain its value but can also lower the chances of insurance claims down the road.

Usage

Classic car insurance isn’t meant for everyday driving. Instead, these policies are designed for cars that hit the road only on special occasions, such as car shows, exhibitions, club events, or the occasional leisurely cruise. Some insurance providers even set mileage limits, like 5,000 kilometres per year, or restrict where you can drive the car.

These limits help reduce the risk of accidents and keep your classic in top shape by minimizing wear and tear. Be sure to check your policy’s usage restrictions so you know exactly what’s allowed and can stay covered.

Ownership

Because classic car insurance is for special, non-daily drivers, most insurers require you to have another primary vehicle for your everyday commute that's insured under a standard car insurance policy. This helps make sure classic car coverage is reserved for vehicles that are truly cherished and used for recreation, not just another ride to work or the grocery store.

Classic car insurance requirements

Just because you own a classic car and don’t use it as your daily driver doesn’t mean you’ll automatically qualify for classic car insurance. Insurers have specific requirements to make sure the policy is going to both the right kind of vehicle and the right kind of driver. To qualify, you typically need to meet the following criteria:

• At least 10 years of driving experience in Canada
• A clean driving record (no at-fault accidents and no more than two minor convictions)
• A separate primary vehicle that’s insured under a different policy, where you’re the daily driver

Just like regular car insurance, classic car policies can vary between insurers. Some may have different age requirements, mileage limits, or storage rules. That’s why it’s always a good idea to ask questions upfront and make sure you understand exactly what’s covered before signing up. A quick chat with a BrokerLink insurance broker can help ensure your prized ride gets the protection it deserves.

Classic car insurance restrictions

Not all classic car insurance providers are the same. Some have stricter rules, different coverage options, and varying premiums. That’s why it’s always a good idea to shop around and get quotes from multiple companies to see what works best for you. Here are some key restrictions you should know before getting classic car insurance:

Pleasure-driving only

Thinking of driving your classic car to commute to work, school, or the grocery store? That’s a no-go under most classic car policies. Classic car insurance is for pleasure driving only, meaning your classic ride can’t be your daily driver. You can take it to car shows, club meetings, parades, and even for maintenance or repairs, but insurers typically don’t allow everyday commutes. Some policies even limit how many kilometres you can drive each year. To qualify, you’ll need a separate, fully insured vehicle for daily use.

Geographical restrictions

Some providers also have geographical restrictions, meaning your car may not be covered if you drive outside North America. Others require it to be stored in a locked, enclosed garage when not in use.

If you’re looking to drive your classic car every day, classic car insurance isn’t the right fit. Instead, a standard auto policy would be a better option. But if your goal is to preserve and protect your classic ride for special occasions, then a specialized classic car policy is the way to go.

What does classic car insurance cover?

Just like with regular car insurance, classic car insurance is required to carry at least the minimum coverage, depending on whether you live in Canada. Many drivers also add additional coverage options to their policy to ensure their classic car has more comprehensive coverage. As such, a classic car insurance policy may look like some variation of the following:

• Third-party liability coverage
• Accident benefits coverage
• Direct compensation-property damage coverage
• Uninsured motorist coverage
• Collision coverage
• Comprehensive coverage
• Accident forgiveness coverage

How much does classic car insurance cost?

Good news: classic car insurance is usually cheaper than standard auto insurance! This is because classic car insurance is only meant for cars that won't be driven very often, so they're less likely to be involved in a collision. However, the exact price depends on several factors. Insurers look at a variety of details to determine how much you’ll pay, including:

• The age, make, trim, and model of your vehicle
• How often you drive your vehicle
• Where you store your vehicle
• Your driving record and experience
• Your age and location
• Any vehicle modifications or improvements
• Your claims history
• Your coverage requirements
• Your automobile insurance history

What's the difference between standard and classic car insurance coverage?

At their core, classic car insurance and standard car insurance serve the same purpose: protecting you from the financial costs of accidents, damage, or losses. But while they share similar coverages, there are some key differences you’ll want to keep in mind:

Classic car insurance is for limited use

Standard car insurance is designed for vehicles that are driven regularly, whether for commuting, errands, or long road trips. Classic car insurance, however, isn’t meant for daily drivers.

Most classic car owners only take their prized vehicles out for a small portion of the year, typically for car shows, club events, or weekend drives. Since they spend less time on the road, they face a lower risk of accidents, and insurance companies take this into account when setting rates. That’s why classic car insurance often comes with lower premiums compared to standard auto policies. Want to know what it would cost to insure your classic car? Contact BrokerLink for a free quote.

Classic cars appreciate in value—regular cars don’t

One of the biggest differences between classic and standard auto insurance is how your car’s value is calculated. Standard car insurance typically covers vehicles based on actual cash value (ACV). That means if your car is totalled, the payout is based on its current market value, which includes depreciation. Most modern cars lose value quickly, so this payout is often much lower than what you originally paid.

Classic car insurance recognizes that collectible cars appreciate in value over time (as long as they’re well-maintained). Instead of ACV, classic car policies often use agreed value coverage, ensuring that if your car is stolen or totalled, you get a payout that reflects its true worth, not a depreciated amount.

If you’re insuring a collector car, choosing the right policy is crucial. A standard policy could leave you with a major financial loss if your vehicle is ever written off. Classic car insurance, on the other hand, is designed to protect your vehicle as it increases in value over time.

What is the difference between a classic, antique, and vintage car?

When it comes to collectible cars, the terms vintage, classic, and antique get thrown around a lot, but their exact definitions can vary depending on who you ask. Some collectors may call a car an antique even if it doesn’t technically meet the age requirement, while different clubs and insurers have their own criteria. Here's how they differ:

Classic car

A classic car is generally any vehicle that’s 15-20 years old or older. These are more common on the road compared to vintage or antique cars, and many are used as project cars or restoration builds. Some classics remain stock, while others get performance upgrades. Common classic cars include:

• Ford Mustang
• Chevrolet Camaro
• Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
• Nissan Skyline GT-R
• Buick Grand National GNX

Because they’re more widely available, classic cars are often seen at car meets, track events, or even as fun weekend cruisers.

Antique car

Antique cars are older than classic cars, typically at least 45 years old. These vehicles are less likely to be daily drivers and are more often considered high-end collector’s items. They can still be roadworthy, but owners tend to limit their use to preserve their value. Some iconic antique cars include:

• Ford Model 18
• Mercury Eight
• Chevrolet Bel Air
• Porsche 356 Speedster
• Jaguar E-Type

Unlike vintage cars, antique vehicles can have some modifications, meaning many of them are restored or customized projects. Some first-generation Dodge and Chevrolet models fall into this category, along with other early muscle cars.

Vintage car

A vintage car typically refers to vehicles produced between 1919 and 1930—essentially the early years of automotive history. These cars are expected to be largely unmodified, meaning any major updates or non-original parts could disqualify them from being considered true vintage cars. Some well-known vintage models include:

• Rolls-Royce Phantom I
• Ford Model T
• Duesenberg Model J
• Cadillac V-16
• Bentley 3 Litre

That said, some car clubs are a bit more flexible and consider vehicles at least 25 years old as vintage.

Vehicles that may not qualify for classic car insurance

Below is a list of vehicles that may not qualify for classic car insurance, even if they meet the criteria mentioned above:

• Commercial-use vehicles
• Motorcycles or scooters
• Vehicles used for off-roading, camping, or utility purposes
• Vehicles with 700 horsepower or greater (no matter whether they've been manufactured or modified)
• Dune buggies
• Motorhomes or recreational homes
• Vehicles used for racing or autocross events
• Vehicles that are highly customized for appearance and suspension

Get a free car insurance quote from BrokerLink

Are you looking at buying a classic car, or is your car reaching that point and you're wondering whether or not it'll need classic car coverage? Reach out to BrokerLink today. We can help you determine whether or not your car qualifies for classic car insurance, and we'll help you find the best coverage for your exact needs.

You can reach us by phone, by email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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