Is it illegal to drive without insurance?

Driving without insurance in Canada is a serious offence with long-term legal and financial consequences. Each province enforces different penalties, and being caught driving without insurance can impact your future driving record and insurance coverage.

Consequences of driving without insurance: penalties by province

All drivers in Canada are legally required to have valid insurance to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. However, car insurance is regulated on a provincial level, meaning the types of auto insurance you need and coverage minimums will vary depending on where you live. The consequences of driving without insurance will also vary between provinces, but know that in all provinces, this is seen as a serious provincial offence. Here's a breakdown of the penalties you could face in Ontario, Alberta, Quebec, and British Columbia:

Other penalties for being caught driving an uninsured vehicle

According to Transport Canada, over 1,931 people died in motor vehicle accidents in 2022, with over 118,000 injuries recorded. This should be a stark reminder to all drivers that driving without insurance doesn't just affect you, but also others on the road. Beyond the penalties listed above, other consequences include:

1. Having your vehicle impounded

If you are pulled over by a police officer and are unable to provide proof of insurance, they have the legal authority to impound your vehicle.

2. Demerit points on your driver's licence

While you will not face criminal charges, you will have demerit points added to your driver's licence. The more points on your driver's licence, the more of a risk you'll be to insure by your insurance company, which will lead to more expensive auto insurance policies.

3. Other costs

While you'll be responsible for paying your initial fine, you may also be charged administrative and court filing fees, a reinstatement fee for your licence, towing and impoundment fees, and more.

What to do if you're caught without automobile insurance

If you are caught driving without vehicle insurance in Canada, you need to be prepared to face serious consequences for your actions. By taking immediate action, you may be able to reduce your long-term penalties. Here's what you need to do:

1. Get your court hearing date

When you get your ticket, you'll receive a court summons that includes a court date. Don't ignore this. Failing to appear can lead to additional fines or a default conviction.

2. Consider legal assistance

Consulting a traffic lawyer may help you negotiate reduced penalties or prevent a licence suspension. However, you'll usually need to pay a fee, unless the lawyer has agreed to work pro bono.

3. Purchase car insurance

Purchase car insurance as soon as possible. Doing so can demonstrate to the courts that you are taking accountability for your actions, which may lead to a lesser sentence.

4. Pay the fine or request a payment plan

Bring your proof of insurance and payment receipts to court. If you are found guilty, you can expect to pay significant fines and may face other consequences like a suspended licence. If it's your first conviction, you may be able to pay the fine through a payment plan, but this will vary between provinces.

How being caught without valid auto insurance can affect your future insurance premiums

Beyond paying fines, it's important to note that being caught operating a motor vehicle without insurance can affect your future insurance rates. Here's how:

High insurance rates

Convicted drivers can anticipate paying anywhere between 30% to 50% more for their insurance coverage in the future, as insurance companies will view them as high-risk customers.

Limited coverage

Driving without insurance can also impact your ability to find automobile insurance in the future. Some insurance companies may refuse to insure you at all, forcing you to purchase coverage from high-risk insurers, also known as facility car insurance, which can be expensive and lead to limited coverage.

Long-term consequences

Depending on which provincial offences act you're convicted under, driving without insurance can remain on your driving record for up to 6 years.

Need an auto insurance policy? Get insured within minutes with BrokerLink!

Driving without insurance is a serious provincial offence. To ensure you're properly insured, the experienced brokers at BrokerLink are here to help. Your insurance broker can let you know which policies are mandatory in your home province and which are recommended as precautions. These include:

• Third-party liability coverage

• Accident benefits coverage

• Direct compensation - property damage coverage

• Uninsured automobile coverage

• Collision car coverage

• Comprehensive car coverage

• Accident forgiveness coverage

Don't wait until it’s too late. Get a quick, reliable car insurance quote today using our free online quote tool!

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Driving without insurance FAQS

Can I drive someone else’s insured car if I don’t have insurance?

Yes, you can drive someone else's vehicle without having your own insurance coverage as long as you have their permission.

What happens if I’m in an accident without insurance?

If you cause a motor vehicle accident without insurance and the other driver is seriously injured and the vehicle suffers damage, you will be held personally responsible for paying all costs, including medical expenses, repair costs, legal fees, and more, out of your own pocket.

Depending on the severity of the accident, you may be charged under the criminal code for reckless or dangerous driving, which can lead to a criminal record if you've been convicted of a criminal offence in court.

Can I get insurance the same day I’m caught?

Yes, you can purchase car insurance to ensure you're properly insured the same day you are caught without insurance. However, please note that this won't prevent penalties or cover any fees incurred before the policy took effect, but it may reduce them in court.

Can I drive an uninsured car if I have insurance?

Car insurance is tied to the vehicle, not the driver. Therefore, you cannot operate a car without insurance, even if you have a policy for your own vehicle. When you borrow someone’s car, you also borrow their insurance.

Is driving without insurance a criminal offence?

Driving without insurance is not a criminal offence. It will not go on your criminal record. However, driving without insurance is still a severe offence. You could face heavy fines and possibly suspend your driver’s license if caught. It will also affect your ability to obtain insurance in the future.

If driving a car without insurance is not a criminal offence, why is it illegal?

Illegal activities are punishable by law and can include violations of civil statutes such as the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, which imposes civil sanctions for uninsured drivers. As such, driving a car without insurance is an illegal act.

Do I still need to get car insurance if I lease my vehicle?

In most cases, your lease agreement may require you to get coverage higher than mandatory for your particular province. For example, the mandatory third-party liability coverage in Ontario is $200,000. The leasing company may require you to have $1 million.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.