Getting auto insurance in Ontario is very different for those who live in the densely populated communities of the GTA compared with more northern and rural communities. Some factors Ontario drivers deal with are bumper-to-bumper traffic, dangerous winter storms, theft in urban centres, and long distances between services in rural communities.
Learn how age and driving incidents affect a quote, how coverage works in the province, and what amounts go toward endorsements, accident benefits, mandatory coverage, and vehicle damage protection. See how quotes are calculated, compare policies more easily, and find ways to manage insurance costs.
We have collected thousands of car insurance quotes from Ontario residents through the MyChoice platform since the beginning of 2026 and used them to derive the median car insurance premiums listed here.
Cheapest Cities to Insure a Car in Ontario
| City | Median Annual Auto Insurance Premium | vs. Ontario Median |
|---|---|---|
| Sudbury | $1,764 | -24.8% |
| Sarnia | $1,820 | -22.4% |
| Midland | $1,902 | -18.9% |
| Bradford | $1,908 | -18.6% |
| Cornwall | $1,922 | -18.0% |
| Waterloo | $1,953 | -16.7% |
| Kingston | $1,963 | -16.3% |
| Ontario Median | $2,345 | — |
Highest Car Insurance Premiums in Ontario
In our Ontario comparison, Brampton has the highest median premium at $4,210 annually, while Mississauga follows at $3,683 per year. These locations are, respectively, $1,865 and $1,338 above the Ontario median. Because rates differ widely among providers even for the same address, it’s especially important to get multiple quotes for comparable coverage levels in these areas.
| City | Median Annual Auto Insurance Premium | vs. Ontario Median |
|---|---|---|
| Brampton | $4,210 | +79.5% |
| Mississauga | $3,683 | +57.1% |
| Etobicoke | $3,055 | +30.3% |
| Markham | $3,046 | +29.9% |
| Vaughan | $2,977 | +27.0% |
| Scarborough | $2,920 | +24.5% |
| Oshawa | $2,823 | +20.4% |
| Ontario Median | $2,345 | — |
Who Provides Car Insurance Quotes in Ontario?
There are four types of car insurance providers in Ontario that offer quotes: insurance brokers, agents, aggregators and direct writers.
What Makes Up the Ontario Premium?
The majority of your Ontario premium is split almost evenly between protecting the car ($1,086.99) and funding mandatory coverages in Ontario ($1,037.80).
Read More: Minimum Auto Insurance Requirement in Ontario
This means there isn’t much wiggle room when it comes to reducing expenses for mandatory coverage. If you want to reduce your insurance bill, you’ll likely need to alter your collision or comprehensive policies, or increase your deductibles. While these decisions will bring down the cost of your policy, you’ll also end up assuming more risk in the event that your vehicle is stolen, suffers damage or gets into an accident.
| Part of the policy | What is included | Median Annual Car Insurance Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Legally required coverage | Third-Party Liability; mandatory medical, rehabilitation and attendant care; Uninsured Automobile | $1,037.80 |
| Vehicle damage protection | DCPD; Collision; Comprehensive | $1,086.99 |
| Optional Accident Benefits | Selected optional benefits shown below | $207.85 |
| Optional endorsements | OPCF 44R – Family Protection | $12.37 |
| Coverage Total: | $2,345 |
As of July 1, 2026, accident benefits are separated into mandatory and optional categories in Ontario. Some accident benefits remain mandatory, including medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care. Other benefits became optional, including income replacement, caregiver, and death benefits.
For policies that will be renewed, current selections will generally continue unless the driver and insurance company agree to changes. Drivers who buy new auto policies after July 1 will be required to choose which optional accident benefits to add.
How Your Car Insurance Quotes Are Calculated in Ontario
The main thing you need to understand is that your car insurance rate is determined by how much of a risk you are. People who are more likely to get into an accident will pay more for car insurance than people who are less likely to be in an accident.
Ontario car insurance quotes can vary widely. Seven factors may affect the estimate you receive:
Car Insurance Costs in Ontario by Age
Age is also a big factor in determining auto insurance rates for Ontario drivers. Drivers aged 18–20 pay a median annual rate of $5,576, more than double the $2,345 median for drivers aged 35–44. By age 65+, the median falls to $1,714 per year.
Options that may help young drivers save include an accredited driving course, appropriate occasional-driver status on a policy, or participation in a usage-based insurance program.
| Age | Median Annual Car Insurance Premium |
|---|---|
| 18-20 | $5,576 |
| 21-24 | $2,892 |
| 25-34 | $2,493 |
| 35-44 | $2,345 |
| 45-54 | $2,237 |
| 55-64 | $2,093 |
| 65+ | $1,714 |
How Driving History Changes Ontario Car Insurance Rates
For an Ontario driver, one at-fault accident on their record increases the median premium from $2,345 to $2,969 ($624 per year). A minor speeding ticket correlates to a median premium of $3,244 ($899 above the clean-record figure).
Do note, however, that it’s more difficult to compare rates for more serious offences, since fewer insurance companies will provide quotes for those types of drivers, and some may have to turn to the high-risk market.
| Driving record | Median Annual Car Insurance Premium |
|---|---|
| Clean | $2,345 |
| Minor speeding ticket | $3,244 |
| One at-fault accident | $2,969 |
| Insurance cancellation (non-payment) | $2,836 |
| Licence suspension | $3,425 |
| Impaired driving conviction | $5,661 |
| Stunt driving conviction | $3,858 |
How Can You Get Cheap Car Insurance in Ontario?
You can obtain low cost car insurance in Ontario if you know how to locate the best deals. Consider these helpful suggestions:
Other Factors That Affect Car Insurance Prices in Ontario
There are a number of other factors which can affect your car insurance rates in Ontario. We’ve mentioned some of them already, but here are some other things to consider when it comes to your Ontario car insurance premiums:
Read More: How Insurance Fraud Adds to Ontario Auto Insurance Costs
Congestion, Winter Weather, and Long-Distance Ontario Travel
Risks in Ontario range from heavy GTA congestion to long stretches of remote northern roadways. Snow squalls, freezing rain, wildlife, vulnerability to theft, road work and isolation vary significantly depending on location. A provincial average doesn’t substitute for regional considerations; know your route before you choose a policy, and use Ontario 511 to stay up to date on current road conditions.
Read More: Ontario’s Safest and Most Dangerous Cities to Drive in 2026
The Most Common Questions About Car Insurance in Ontario
Can I drive my parents’ car without insurance in Ontario?
Your parents’ car needs to be insured, and you also need a valid licence and their permission to drive it. It’s generally important that your household members and any regular drivers are declared to your insurance provider and included on the policy as necessary. If you occasionally drive a family member’s car, it depends on the terms of your policy.
Is there a calculator for car insurance in Ontario?
The MyChoice car insurance calculator for Ontario drivers makes getting car insurance rates as easy as giving some details about yourself, your car and whether you are eligible for any discounts.
Who can drive my car under my insurance in Ontario?
An excluded driver may NOT drive the car. All regular drivers or drivers living in the household must be listed. If someone with a driver’s licence uses your car with your permission they may be covered, subject to the provisions of your insurance policy.
Can you register a car without insurance in Ontario?
To register and plate your car in Ontario, you need to show proof of valid auto insurance. While the legal minimum for third-party liability coverage is $200,000, many drivers choose more than that.
How do I cancel my Ontario car insurance?
In Ontario, you may cancel your car insurance whenever you like by contacting your insurance company. However, the insurer may charge fees or penalties if you cancel before the end of the policy term.
What is the cheapest insurance for new drivers in Ontario?
There is no blanket answer to the question, Who offers the cheapest auto insurance to newer drivers? Each driver’s overall profile, including years of being licensed, make of car, geographical location, use of car, driving record, etc., helps to determine costs. There is no consistent rate structure or age cutoff among insurers. However, a shorter history of driving and auto insurance generally results in higher costs.
Can a modified car be insured in Ontario?
It’s possible that your modified car could be insured. Be sure to tell the insurer about any modifications before you buy or change your policy. Certain approved anti-theft devices might get you a discount. A dashcam does not automatically mean a reduced premium.
Is there a tax on car insurance in Ontario?
Ontario car insurance is not subject to HST or the Ontario retail sales tax on taxable insurance premiums. If your policy has a separate administration or financing fee, that might be taxed, so verify the charges on your invoice.
How much does your car insurance go up after an accident in Ontario?
Get into just one at-fault accident and the median insurance rate in Ontario jumps about 26.6%, from $2,345 to $2,969.
How do you get car insurance after cancelling one in Ontario?
If you want to switch to a different car insurance provider in Ontario, you will need to look for other providers after cancelling your current policy. In some cases, where the insurance policy has been cancelled because of unpaid premiums or the suspension of your driver’s licence, you may find it more difficult to get approved by a car insurance company.
Is there a grace period for Ontario car insurance when buying a new car?
Insurers generally allow 14 to 15 days after a new-car purchase to arrange coverage. Before taking possession, contact the company and get written confirmation of the car’s protection and effective date; do not drive until then.
Is there insurance for parked cars in Ontario?
Did you know that there is parked car insurance in Ontario? Parked car insurance is what protects your car when it’s not being used over an extended period of time. It can provide peace of mind about what would happen to your car if someone ran into it or it was damaged during your absence.
Can someone else insure my car in Ontario?
Is there someone else who can insure my car in Ontario? You can provide another person with a signed authorization letter to insure a vehicle in your name. This person listed on the letter can speak to the insurer and purchase a policy for you. The other person could also pay for the policy on your behalf, but you must sign the policy for it to be valid.
Can you insure a car in someone else’s name in Ontario?
Only the registered owner can insure a car because they have the financial interest in it. Other people, such as a spouse or child, may still be listed as principal operators on the policy.
Does insurance follow the car or the driver in Ontario?
Auto insurance follows the car. In Ontario, if another person is driving your car and is involved in a car accident, your insurance will be used first, even if the other person has his/her own car insurance.
What is third-party liability car insurance?
If you cause an accident where someone else or their property is harmed, third-party liability car insurance will pay compensation for the damage or injury. In Ontario, you must have at least $200,000 worth of third-party liability car insurance to drive on the roads of Ontario.
What happens if you’re not at fault for a car accident but don’t have insurance in Ontario?
If you’re not at fault in Ontario for an auto accident and don’t have auto insurance, the best case scenario is that you will have to pay out of pocket to fix your vehicle and pay for damage to any other vehicles.
Can you drive a car without insurance in Ontario?
No, you cannot legally drive a car in Ontario without insurance. However, an owner who does not intend to drive may still be able to insure the vehicle by listing a licensed primary driver, subject to insurer requirements.
What happens to my Ontario car insurance after death?
Your Ontario car insurance policy will require cancellation upon your death. This is not an automatic process as someone needs to inform the insurance company of your death and ask for the policy to be cancelled. Your spouse or a relative can do this for you.
Is there fire and theft car insurance in Ontario?
Many Ontario insurance providers offer fire and theft insurance. Since it is not mandatory coverage, you may have to pay for it on top of your regular premium.
How long does it take to get car insurance in Ontario?
An in-person insurance sale with an agent takes one to two hours. This option suits people who want more information or have several questions answered. Alternatively, getting car insurance over the phone takes 20 to 30 minutes in Ontario.
What do Ontario’s laws say about car insurance?
The provincial law in Ontario requires drivers to have car insurance if they want to legally operate their vehicle. A driver who does not have a valid policy may be penalized with fines, license suspension or impoundment of their vehicle.
What are Ontario car insurance pink slips?
In Ontario, a pink slip is the document that proves you have car insurance.
What is usage-based auto insurance in Ontario?
Usage-based auto insurance is available with some insurers in Ontario. With this type of auto insurance, the insurer places a device known as a telematics device in your car. This device monitors your driving habits, such as driving style, where you drive and at what times. Based on this information, the insurer calculates your auto insurance rates. They may even change your rate, should your driving habits change.
Can I suspend or put my car insurance on hold in Ontario?
If you’re not planning to use your Ontario vehicle for a while, you can put your car insurance on hold by completing the Ontario Policy Change Form (OPCF) 16. You’ll be able to activate the coverage again at a later time using the OPCF 17.
Can you get car insurance without a licence in Ontario?
If you’re a recent immigrant to Ontario, you may be able to exchange your existing licence for a Canadian one. If you do not have a licence to exchange, you must pass written and practical driving tests to earn a new licence. Whether you can insure a vehicle without holding a licence depends on the insurer’s requirements; a licensed primary driver may need to be listed.
Can you insure a car you don’t own in Ontario?
The registered owner normally arranges the vehicle’s policy because they have the primary insurable interest. If you regularly drive a vehicle you do not own, ask the owner and insurer to list you correctly and confirm what coverage applies.
Does credit score affect car insurance in Ontario?
Your credit score won’t have an impact on your car insurance in Ontario. Instead, your driving experience, age, gender, location, the make of the car you’re insuring and other factors will impact your rates, according to regulations in Ontario.
Do I have to add my child to my car insurance in Ontario?
When a child in the household gets a G1 licence, report it to your insurer and follow the company’s driver-listing rules. Learner drivers may need to be disclosed, so check instead of assuming you can wait for a G2 or full G licence.
How far back do car insurance companies look in Ontario?
It is not always a set number of years back for every rating decision. For example, the 2026 auto insurance application in Ontario asks whether you have had any convictions within the last three years, but insurers might also take into account your claims history, cancellations and continuous insurance for different time frames as allowed in their approved rating rules.
How do you switch car insurance in Ontario?
In Ontario, you can change car insurance at any time, as long as you cancel your current policy and buy a new one with another insurer. But be aware that there might be fees for cancelling your policy early, meaning before your renewal date.
Is there car insurance for international drivers in Ontario?
New residents registering a vehicle in Ontario must have an Ontario-valid insurance policy. Ask the insurer which foreign driving and insurance histories it will accept. Visitors driving in Ontario must have a valid driver’s licence and insurance that covers the vehicle being driven.
Is there multi-car insurance in Ontario?
Although some insurers in Ontario provide a discount for putting more than one eligible vehicle on the policy, it doesn’t necessarily mean this will be the cheapest option, so be sure to compare coverage and overall rates.
Is there new car insurance in Ontario?
There are no insurance products unique to new cars in Ontario. Regular auto insurance can be purchased to cover a newly acquired vehicle.
When will my car insurance rates go down in Ontario?
While it’s not guaranteed, gaining driving and insurance experience may affect your rate depending on your driving record, your vehicle, address, usage, the amount and types of coverage you buy, and your insurer’s approved rating model.
Why is car insurance so expensive in Ontario?
Poor weather conditions, insurance fraud, higher vehicle repair costs, and increased accidents all contribute to the high cost of car insurance in Ontario. The higher risk of driving in Ontario contributes to it being one of the most expensive provinces in Canada for car insurance.
Do I need insurance to buy a used car in Ontario?
While it’s possible to buy a used car before getting insurance, you must have a valid policy to register, plate and drive your vehicle on Ontario roads. Make sure you’re covered before you get behind the wheel.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Ontario?
The rental vehicle still needs required liability insurance. Protection may be supplied by the rental company, your own auto policy, a credit card benefit, or an optional damage waiver. Check the rental agreement before driving to confirm which applies.
How long do claims stay on car insurance in Ontario?
There is no one-size-fits-all rule that all claims stay on your record forever. Different insurers have varying approved lookback periods, and they may weigh at-fault and not-at-fault claims, as well as comprehensive claims and forgiven claims, in different ways.
What counts as proof of car insurance in Ontario?
In Ontario, proof of auto insurance can be in either paper or electronic format. When you have just set up your coverage, present only temporary proof issued or approved by your insurance company and ensure that your policy is bound and effective before you drive.
What are the risks of material misrepresentation on your auto insurance in Ontario?
If you provide inaccurate information on an Ontario auto insurance application, you could be denied coverage or have the policy voided. If you give false information to the insurer, it might also decline to defend you in a lawsuit.
Does Ontario car insurance cover the USA?
Many personal auto policies from Ontario provide coverage throughout Canada and the United States, subject to the policy’s territory, limits, exclusions, and vehicle-use rules. Check those terms before leaving, and carry acceptable proof of insurance when travelling.
What is accident forgiveness in Ontario?
An accident forgiveness endorsement, where available, might keep an eligible first at-fault accident from increasing your rates with the current insurer, although the specific eligibility rules, prior-claims criteria, and availability for portability differ among insurance companies.
Which insurance company has the best car and home insurance bundle in Ontario?
There is no “best” car and home insurance bundle in Ontario. It will depend on the kind of protection you require as well as your own risk profile. The way to find the right policy is to consider your own insurance needs, shop around and find a policy that provides appropriate protection at a fair price.
Can you insure a car with no plates in Ontario?
You can usually arrange insurance before an Ontario vehicle has plates, since proof of coverage is needed for registration and plating. The car cannot be driven on public roads until the insurance, registration, permit and plate requirements have all been satisfied.
Can you pay for car insurance in Ontario in instalments?
Many insurers offer the option of paying in monthly instalments. Your total might be more if an instalment/financing fee applies. However, payment options can differ, so check what the annual total costs before you pay monthly.
How has Ontario’s distracted driving law impacted car insurance rates?
Convictions for distracted driving could potentially impact your eligibility and rate because insurers often take recent convictions into account when determining your policy rating.
How do you get car insurance in Ontario?
There are four options for purchasing auto insurance in Ontario, which are a broker, insurance agent, direct writer and insurance aggregator site. Brokers and aggregator sites can provide you with options from a number of different companies, whereas direct writers and agents will normally represent just one.
How does your type of car affect insurance in Ontario?
What kind of vehicle you choose can affect your auto insurance in Ontario because certain makes and models will cost more to replace and repair than others. The more it costs to replace your car, the higher your rates. If you want to find the best rates on auto insurance in Ontario, we suggest you buy a car that is reasonably priced, and easy to repair and replace.
Can you be refused auto insurance in Ontario?
An insurer can decline, cancel, or refuse to renew coverage only when its approved rules allow it. If regular-market coverage is unavailable, an Ontario driver may need the high-risk market or Facility Association, the insurer of last resort for basic compulsory coverage.
How do I report an auto insurance claim in Ontario?
If you have auto insurance in Ontario, you can file a claim with your insurance company by simply calling them. Ideally, you should do so right after the accident. A representative from the insurance company will walk you through how to file and process your insurance claim.
Is roadside assistance required in Ontario?
In Ontario, there is no law that requires you to have roadside assistance. But you may want the phone number of a towing company just in case you get in an accident. You might be entitled to roadside assistance as part of your car purchase from certain dealerships.
Can you get same-day car insurance in Ontario?
Coverage may be available the same day, but it is not guaranteed. Do not drive until the insurer or licensed representative confirms that the policy is bound and provides its effective date and proof of insurance.
What do Statutory Accident Benefits cover?
Medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits are still required for policies issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2026. Other Accident Benefits, including income replacement, non-earner, caregiver, housekeeping, death, and funeral benefits are optional, so review the selections on your policy. Read more about the reform here.
Can you get Uber and ridesharing car insurance in Ontario?
Make sure you tell your insurer before you start driving for a ride-sharing service and make sure the service uses an Ontario-approved ride-sharing policy. Simply putting business use on a quote form does not mean you are covered for ride-sharing.
Who sets car insurance rates in Ontario?
How are auto insurance rates regulated? The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) regulates auto insurance rates. Insurers propose changes to rates and submit them to FSRA for review. Insurers cannot implement any changes until FSRA approves them.
Is it required to have winter tires in Ontario?
Most passenger vehicles in Ontario do not have to use winter tires. However, all Ontario car insurance companies are required to provide a discount for winter tires that meet specific criteria. The size of the discount varies by insurer, as do the requirements for qualifying.