How to buy Autoplan

If you are new to B.C., there may be other steps you need to take before purchasing Autoplan for the first time.

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.
• 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 AirCare and what to do if your car does not pass .

At the broker

When you visit your Autoplan broker, you will be taken through a few simple steps.

1. The broker will discuss with you the right policy length and optional insurance for your needs.
2. You must pay any outstanding tickets, fines or debts.
3. You may want to purchase specialty or 2010 Winter Games Plates.
4. Present all the paperwork listed below and pay for your policy, or set up a monthly payment plan.
5. You will be given a Certificate of Insurance. Sign it and keep it in your vehicle.
6. Finally, you will receive an insurance decal, which fits on your rear licence plate and shows the date your insurance expires. You can put it 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: Heavy commercial vehicles (5500 kg GVW and over must display the decal on the front plate instead.

Now your paperwork is up to date, and you are ready for the road.

Checklist before you buy Autoplan

Make sure you have all the right documents when you visit the broker to buy Autoplan insurance:

• Your driver’s licence and vehicle registration documents.
• Your AirCare certificate (it should be on file if you passed the AirCare inspection, so this is optional).
• Renewing? Bring your insurance renewal reminder.
• Payment for your policy. Bring cheque, cash, debit card, American Express, Visa or MasterCard. You can also choose to make monthly payments for Autoplan.