Does My B.C. Car Insurance Automatically Renew?

March 3, 2025

Does my B.C. car insurance automatically renew? If not, what do I need to do?

Drivers in provinces with government-run insurance providers, such as the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), have a different renewal process compared to those insured through private companies.

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Let’s take a look at car insurance renewals, focusing on automatic renewals and how they differ between private insurers and government-run insurance providers.

What is car insurance renewal?

Car insurance renewal is the process of extending your existing policy for another term, usually six months or one year. Renewal ensures continuous coverage, which is mandatory across Canada.

Failing to renew your car insurance on time can leave you uninsured and may result in fines, licence suspension, or difficulty obtaining coverage in the future.

Does car insurance automatically renew?

For most Canadians, whether insurance renews automatically depends on the type of insurer—private or government-run—and the specific terms of the policy.

Government-run insurance providers

In provinces with public auto insurance systems, such as ICBC in British Columbia, the renewal process differs from private insurance.

• Renew through Western Coast: For drivers looking to renew their ICBC policy, our website provides a streamlined renewal experience. Skip multiple platforms and complete your renewal while reviewing optional coverage in one place.
• In person: Visit an ICBC Autoplan broker to renew your policy and discuss any changes to your coverage.
• By phone: Some ICBC Autoplan brokers offer phone renewals, depending on your situation.

Other government-run insurers, such as Saskatchewan’s SGI and Manitoba’s MPI, follow different renewal rules.

Renewing with ICBC and other government insurers

ICBC (British Columbia)

ICBC, the public auto insurer in British Columbia, requires drivers to manually renew their Basic Autoplan insurance. Here’s what to know:

• Renewal period: ICBC allows renewals up to 44 days before your policy expires.
• No automatic renewal: Basic Autoplan does not renew automatically. Some optional private coverages may, but ICBC’s mandatory coverage requires action.
• Online renewal option: Renew your ICBC insurance through Western Coast to simplify the process and review coverage at the same time.

SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance)

In Saskatchewan, SGI operates a public auto insurance system that generally offers automatic renewal, provided there are no changes such as missed payments or coverage updates.

MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance)

Manitoba Public Insurance does not automatically renew policies. Drivers must actively renew their coverage online, by phone, or in person.

Private insurance companies

Many private insurers in Canada offer automatic renewal for car insurance policies. When available, policies renew at the end of the term without requiring action from the driver.

• Renewal notice: Insurers typically send notices 30–60 days in advance outlining premium changes and coverage details.
• Automatic billing: Premiums are charged automatically if you’re enrolled in pre-authorized payments.

Automatic renewal may not apply if:

• Your driving history has changed (accidents or tickets)
• You’ve missed payments or have an outstanding balance
• You opted out of automatic renewal

What should you do before renewing?

Whether your policy renews automatically or requires action, reviewing your coverage before renewal is important.

• Compare quotes: Reviewing options can help ensure you’re getting good value.
• Review coverage needs: Changes such as moving or adding a driver may require updates.
• Check discounts: Bundling, clean driving records, or winter tires may reduce premiums.
• Update information: Confirm your contact and vehicle details are accurate.
• Ask questions: A broker can help clarify coverage or recommend adjustments.

What happens if you miss your renewal date?

Missing your renewal deadline can lead to:

• Fines and penalties: Driving uninsured is illegal in Canada.
• Higher premiums: Coverage gaps may increase future rates.
• Lost discounts: Continuous coverage is often required for savings.

To avoid issues, track your renewal date and plan ahead.

Key takeaways

• ICBC (British Columbia): ICBC policies do not renew automatically. Drivers must actively renew Basic Autoplan coverage.
• Private insurers: Many offer automatic renewal, depending on policy terms.
• SGI (Saskatchewan): Automatic renewal is available for eligible policies.
• MPI (Manitoba): Manual renewal is required, similar to ICBC.

ICBC allows renewals up to 44 days before your policy expires, giving you time to review and adjust your coverage.