How to buy Autoplan

Find out what to expect when you go to an Autoplan broker's office to buy your insurance.

AirCare

If you live in the Lower Mainland, it is possible that your vehicle needs to pass an AirCare emissions test before you can buy insurance. AirCare is a provincial Environment ministry program administered by ICBC and TransLink to reduce pollution from automobiles. It measures several key pollutants found in exhaust fumes and compares them to acceptable emission standards.

You need to be tested:

• If it states "AirCare Required" on your insurance renewal reminder
• If your vehicle is new to B.C. it needs to be tested before your first insurance renewal.
• If your vehicle is not on the AirCare exemption list. (Most late-model cars and hybrid vehicles do not require a test.)

To get your test:

1. Take your vehicle to an AirCare Inspection Centre. No appointment is necessary.
2. Show your vehicle registration documents and pay the inspection fee:
   • $45 for vehicles registered between 1992 and today (good for two years)
   • $23 for vehicles registered in 1991 or earlier (good for one year)

Find out more about AirCareand what to do if your car does not pass.

Getting an insurance quote

To choose coverage that meets your needs and get an insurance quote, go to any Autoplan broker.

At the broker's office

Here's what you can expect when you come in to buy your insurance:

• Your broker helps you to choose the right policy length, deductible and any optional coverage you may need. 
• You show your insurance documents (see below) and pay for your policy or set up a monthly payment plan.
• You get a new Certificate of Insurance and an insurance decal to put on your rear licence plate. The decal shows the date your insurance expires.
• You sign your insurance papers and keep them in your vehicle.

Important: You can put the decal on your vehicle up to 30 days before your old policy expires, but it must be displayed when your new policy comes into effect.

Note: When you buy insurance, you must provide accurate information (e.g., principal operator, vehicle use) or else your coverage could be invalid if you have a claim.

Checklist before you buy

Make sure you bring all the right documents:

• Your driver’s licence and vehicle registration.
• Your renewal reminder (if you're renewing a policy).
• Payment for your policy. You can pay by cheque, with cash, a debit card or credit card (American Express, Visa or MasterCard). You can also choose to make monthly payments for Autoplan.

If you've taken an AirCare test, it's a good idea to bring your inspection certificate, too.

Note: Before buying insurance, any outstanding tickets, fines or debts must be paid.

New to B.C.?

Find out how to register, licence and insure your vehicle if you're a new B.C. resident.

Moving to B.C. »