ICBC Insurance for New Drivers in BC.

ICBC Basic Autoplan is mandatory for all vehicles registered in BC. New drivers — those with less than 9 years of claims-free driving experience — pay higher premiums through the Experience Rating system.

A brand new driver (0 years experience) starts at a higher premium bracket and earns discounts each year with no at-fault claims. After 9 claims-free years, you reach the maximum discount.

For a new driver insuring a mid-range used vehicle ($15,000–$25,000 value), expect Basic Autoplan to cost $2,200–$3,500 per year ($183–$292/month). Adding Optional collision and comprehensive coverage adds $600–$1,500/year depending on the vehicle and deductible chosen.

Total insurance cost for a new driver: approximately $250–$400/month. This is a significant expense that must be budgeted alongside your car payment — use our payment calculator and add insurance to your total monthly cost.

Newcomers to Canada may be able to bring driving experience from their home country. ICBC recognizes experience from many countries — provide your international driving abstract when applying for insurance. This can save $500–$1,500/year. See our newcomer guide. Tips to reduce insurance costs as a new driver: choose a vehicle with a lower insurance rate group (smaller sedans cost less to insure than SUVs or sports cars), increase your deductible from $300 to $500 or $1,000 (saves $200–$500/year on premiums), avoid at-fault accidents and traffic violations (each clean year earns a discount), consider usage-based insurance through ICBC optional programs, and bundle your insurance with other ICBC products if available.