Autoplan is British Columbia's government-run auto insurance provider

Autoplan is the public auto insurance corporation owned by the province of British Columbia. It is the only place in BC where you can buy basic auto insurance — the minimum coverage required by law to drive. You can buy additional coverage (like collision or comprehensive) from Autoplan or from private insurers, but the basic liability and accident benefits must come from Autoplan.

This structure exists because BC treats basic auto insurance as a public service, similar to how other provinces handle it differently. If you live in BC and own a vehicle, you will interact with Autoplan at some point — whether to renew your basic coverage, add optional protection, or file a claim.

Key Takeaways

  • Autoplan is the only source for basic auto insurance in BC; you cannot buy it from a private company instead.
  • Basic coverage includes third-party liability and accident benefits, which are the minimum required by law.
  • You can add optional coverage like collision, comprehensive, or uninsured motorist protection through Autoplan or private insurers.
  • Autoplan rates depend on your driving record, vehicle type, use, and where you live in the province.
  • You can renew or purchase Autoplan coverage online, by phone, or at an Autoplan broker office.

What basic coverage includes and why it matters

Basic Autoplan coverage has two main parts: third-party liability and accident benefits. Liability covers damage or injury you cause to someone else — their vehicle, their property, or their medical costs. Accident benefits cover your own medical treatment and lost wages if you are injured in a crash, regardless of who caused it.

The minimum liability limit in BC is $200,000, though many people choose higher limits. The accident benefits portion is no-fault, meaning you receive it even if the crash was your fault. This is the coverage the government requires; you cannot drive legally without it.

Because Autoplan is the sole provider of basic coverage, you cannot shop around for a lower rate on this portion. However, you can reduce your overall cost by choosing a higher deductible, adjusting optional coverage, or looking for discounts based on your driving record or vehicle safety features.

Optional coverage you can add through Autoplan or private insurers

Beyond basic coverage, you have choices. Collision coverage pays for damage to your own vehicle if you hit something or someone hits you. Comprehensive coverage covers theft, vandalism, weather, and other non-collision damage. Uninsured motorist protection covers you if hit by someone without insurance or if they flee.

You can purchase these add-ons through Autoplan itself, or you can buy them from a private insurer. Many people bundle everything with one company for convenience, but some choose Autoplan for basic coverage and a private insurer for optional coverage. If you finance or lease a vehicle, your lender will likely require collision and comprehensive coverage as a condition of the loan.

Each optional coverage has a deductible — the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Common deductibles are $500 or $1,000. Choosing a higher deductible lowers your premium but means you pay more if you file a claim.

How Autoplan rates are calculated

Autoplan uses several factors to set your rate. Your driving record is the largest factor — accidents and violations you caused raise your rate, sometimes for years. The type of vehicle you drive matters; sports cars and high-theft vehicles cost more to insure. Where you live in BC affects your rate because some areas have higher claim frequencies.

How you use the vehicle also matters. Commuting to work daily costs more than occasional driving. Your age and years of driving experience factor in — younger drivers and those with fewer years of experience typically pay higher rates. Some discounts are available: bundling home and auto insurance, completing a defensive driving course, or having safety features like anti-theft devices can lower your premium.

Autoplan publishes rate information, but the exact calculation for your situation requires a quote. Rates change annually, and Autoplan adjusts them based on claims data and inflation. You receive notice of any rate change before your renewal date.

How to purchase or renew Autoplan coverage

You can handle Autoplan transactions in three ways: online through the Autoplan website, by phone at 1-800-663-2920, or in person at an Autoplan broker office. Broker offices are located throughout BC — you can find the nearest one on the Autoplan website.

When you purchase or renew, you will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), current insurance information if you are switching, and details about how you use the vehicle. The process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. You can choose your coverage levels, deductibles, and optional add-ons during this time.

Autoplan issues your coverage documents when ready online or by mail, depending on your method. You must have proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times — this can be a printed document, a digital copy on your phone, or a card. Your coverage takes effect on the date you choose, usually the same day you purchase if you complete it before the important date.

Filing a claim and what to expect

If you are in a crash or your vehicle is damaged, contact Autoplan to file a claim. You can report a claim online, by phone, or at a broker office. Have your policy number and details about what happened ready. For a crash, you will also need the other driver's information if applicable.

Autoplan will assign an adjuster to your claim. The adjuster investigates what happened, reviews your coverage, and determines what Autoplan will pay. This process typically takes one to four weeks, depending on the complexity. If your vehicle is repairable, Autoplan will authorize repairs at a network shop or reimburse you if you use another shop. If the vehicle is a total loss, Autoplan pays the actual cash value minus your deductible.

If you disagree with Autoplan's decision on a claim, you can request a review or file a complaint with the Financial Services Complaint Resolution Service (FSCRS), which handles disputes between insurers and customers in BC.

Autoplan versus private insurance for optional coverage

Since you must buy basic coverage from Autoplan, the real choice is whether to add optional coverage through Autoplan or a private insurer. Autoplan rates for optional coverage are set by the government and are the same for all customers with the same profile — there is no underwriting or selective pricing. Private insurers, by contrast, may offer lower rates to customers with excellent driving records or charge more to higher-risk drivers.

If you have a clean driving history, a private insurer might offer better rates on optional coverage. If you have accidents or violations on your record, Autoplan's standardized rates may be competitive or better. Many people find it simpler to buy everything from Autoplan rather than managing two policies, but the choice depends on your situation and what quotes you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy auto insurance from a private company instead of Autoplan in BC?

No, not for basic coverage. You must buy third-party liability and accident benefits from Autoplan. You can buy optional coverage like collision or comprehensive from a private insurer if you prefer, but basic coverage has no alternative source in BC.

What happens if I drive without Autoplan coverage?

Driving without basic insurance is illegal in BC. You face fines starting at $598, a driving prohibition, and vehicle impoundment. Your vehicle registration will be suspended if you do not have active coverage. If you are in a crash without insurance, you are personally liable for all damages.

Does Autoplan cover me if I drive someone else's car?

Your Autoplan policy covers you when you drive other vehicles with the owner's permission, as long as those vehicles are not regularly available to you. If you frequently borrow the same car, you should add it to your policy. Coverage does not extend to vehicles you own but have not insured.

How often do Autoplan rates change?

Autoplan rates are set annually and take effect on your renewal date. You receive notice of any rate change at least 30 days before your renewal. Rates can change due to claims history, vehicle changes, or province-wide adjustments based on inflation and claims data.

What should I do if Autoplan denies my claim?

Request a written explanation of the denial. Review your policy to understand the reason. If you believe the decision is wrong, you can request an internal review or file a complaint with the Financial Services Complaint Resolution Service (FSCRS), which investigates disputes at no cost to you.