The Automobile Insurance System in Quebec: What You Need to Know

Quebec has a unique automobile insurance system in Canada. Understanding how it works helps you choose the right coverage and avoid paying for unnecessary coverage.

The SAAQ’s public plan: bodily injury

The Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) administers a no-fault public plan. This means that all bodily injuries sustained in a road accident are covered automatically, regardless of whether you are at fault for the accident or not. This plan is funded by your registration fees and driver’s licence.

SAAQ coverage includes:

• Income replacement indemnity (90% of net income)
• Reimbursement of medical and rehabilitation expenses
• Permanent sequelae compensation
• Death Benefit for Relatives

Private insurance: property damage

The car insurance you buy from a private insurer covers everything that the SAAQ doesn’t cover: property damage. It’s this insurance that you compare and shop around to get the best price.

Car insurance coverage explained simply

Your car insurance policy in Quebec is made up of chapters. Here’s what each one covers and when it’s recommended.

Chapter A — Civil liability (mandatory)

This is the only mandatory coverage in Quebec. It pays for the material damage you cause to others in an accident. The legal minimum is $50,000, but this amount is insufficient for the majority of claims. Experts and the Chambre de l’assurance de dommages (CHAD) recommend a minimum of $1,000,000, or even $2,000,000 if you are traveling to the United States.

Chapter B1 — Collision Protection

Covers damage to your own vehicle in the event of a collision with another vehicle, object, or in the event of a rollover. Recommended for vehicles less than 10 years old or financed by a car loan.

Chapter B2 — All-risk coverage (except collision)

Covers damage caused by other than a collision: theft, vandalism, fire, hail, flooding, broken windshield, collision with an animal. Often paired with Chapter B1 for complete coverage.

Chapter B3 — Specific risks

Lighter version of Chapter B2 which covers only the risks named in the policy (fire, theft, hail). Cheaper, but less protection.

Chapter B4 — Specific non-collision and rollover hazards

Covers specific risks without including collisions. Economical option for older vehicles with a low market value.

Comparative table of coverage

Protection	Mandatory?	What it covers	Recommended for
Chapter A	Yes	Property damage caused to others	All drivers
Chapter B1	No	Damage to your vehicle (collision)	Vehicles < 10 years
Chapter B2	No	Theft, vandalism, hail, fire, animals	All (highly recommended)
Chapter B3/B4	No	Specific Named Risks Only	Older vehicles

Popular Endorsements: Additional Coverage to Consider

Endorsements are options that are added to your base policy to expand your coverage. Here are the most important ones.

FAQ 43 — Replacement Cost

In the event of a total loss, you receive the amount needed to purchase an equivalent new vehicle rather than the depreciated value. Essential for new or recent vehicles (0-5 years).

FAQ 20 — Travel Expenses (Replacement Vehicle)

Covers the cost of renting a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired. You choose the daily amount ($30, $40, $50) and the maximum duration.

FAQ 27 — Third Party Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Vehicles

Covers damage to someone else’s vehicle you drive (rental, loan). Essential if you rent cars occasionally.

FAQ 34 — Changes to the Deductible

Reduces your deductible to $0 in the event of a non-at-fault accident with an identified driver. Avoid paying the deductible when the accident is not your fault.

What influences the price of your car insurance?

Understanding car insurance pricing factors helps you get a better price. Here are the elements that Quebec insurers analyze.

Your driver profile

• Age and Experience: Drivers between the ages of 25 and 65 with more than 5 years of experience pay less.
• Driving record: Infractions and demerit points increase your premium for 3 to 6 years.
• Claims History: Each claim can increase your premium by 10-40% for 6 years.
• Credit Score: Some insurers use your credit score as a risk factor.

Your vehicle

• Year, make and model: Luxury or sports vehicles cost more to insure.
• Value of the vehicle: The more expensive the vehicle, the higher the premium.
• Flight Stats: Frequently stolen models (Honda Civic, Hyundai) have higher premiums.
• Safety equipment: Emergency braking systems, cameras and locks can reduce your premium.

Your place of residence

• Region: Montreal and Laval are the most expensive regions; Rural areas are cheaper.
• Parking: A closed garage reduces the risk of theft and lowers your premium.
• Distance from home to work: The less you drive, the less you pay (low mileage discount).

How much does car insurance cost in Quebec in 2026?

The price of car insurance in Quebec varies considerably depending on your profile. Here are the average premiums observed in 2026 for an average-value vehicle with full coverage (chapters A + B1 + B2).

profile premium premium 2,200 183 1,500 125 1,200 100 1,300 108 claim 2,000 167 1,600 133 vehicle 1,700 142

Driver	Annual	Monthly	Variation
Young driver (18-24 years old)	$1,500 — $	$125 — $	+ 60 to 100%
Driver 25-39 years old	$1,000 — $	$83 — $	+ 10 to 30%
Driver 40-59 years old (without claim)	$750 — $	$63 — $	Reference
Driver 60+ years old	$850 — $	$71 — $	+ 5 to 15%
Case with recent	$1,300 — $	$108 — $	+ 40 to 80%
New Resident in Quebec	$1,000 — $	$83 — $	Variable
Electric / hybrid	$1,100 — $	$92 — $	+ 15 to 30%

Indicative prices for Quebec in 2026, mid-value vehicle, full coverage. Your actual premium depends on your record, your vehicle and where you live. Get your exact price here.

7 Strategies to Reduce Your Car Insurance Premium

1. Compare at least 3 insurers: Prices can vary from 30% to 50% from one insurer to another for the same profile. Use our free comparison tool to see the difference.
2. Bundle your insurance: Combine your car and home with the same insurer for a 5 to 15% discount.
3. Increase your deductible: Going from $250 to $500 or $1,000 can reduce your premium by 15-25%.
4. Maintain a good record: No claims for 6 years qualifies you for the best rates.
5. Install an anti-theft device: A TAG system or certified immobilizer can save you money.
6. Pay annually: Paying in one installment avoids monthly financing costs.
7. Claim all discounts: Low mileage, early winter tires, retirees, veterans — every discount counts.

What to do in the event of a car accident in Quebec?

An accident is stressful. Follow these steps to protect your rights and make your claim easier.

1. Ensure security: Turn on your hazard lights, check for injuries, and move vehicles if possible.
2. Call 911: Mandatory if someone is injured, if the damage exceeds $2,000 or if a hit-and-run is involved.
3. Fill in the joint report: Exchange your information (name, insurer, policy number) with the other driver and fill out the joint report form.
4. Document the scene: Take photos of damage, vehicle position, signage, and road conditions.
5. Contact your insurer: Notify your insurer within 24 hours. The faster you act, the smoother the process.
6. For injuries: File a claim with the SAAQ for bodily injury benefits.

Always keep a blank joint report in your glove compartment. Your insurer can provide you with one free of charge.

Car insurance for special profiles

Young drivers (16-24 years old)

Young drivers pay higher premiums due to their lack of experience. Strategies to save money: being a secondary driver on a parent’s policy, taking a recognized driving course, choosing a low-horsepower vehicle, and maintaining an impeccable record. Adding to the parental contract can reduce the premium by 40 to 60%.

Drivers with a difficult history

A busy driving record (infractions, accidents, licence suspension) does not prevent you from obtaining insurance. Specialist insurers such as Pafco, Echelon and L’Unique offer coverage for high-risk drivers. Learn more about insurance with a difficult file.

Electric and hybrid vehicles

Electric vehicles typically cost more to insure due to the high cost of batteries and specialized repairs. However, some insurers offer ecological discounts to encourage the transition. Mention your electric vehicle when quoting to get the best rates.

Collector’s and antique vehicles

Vehicles 25 years old and older can benefit from cheap antique vehicle insurance , based on the agreed value rather than the market value. Conditions apply: limited mileage, closed garage and recreational use.

Auto Insurance by Region in Quebec

The cost of your car insurance varies depending on your city of residence. Urban areas such as Montreal and Laval have higher premiums due to traffic volume and loss rates. Here are our guides by city:

For residents of Montreal, Quebec City and Sherbrooke, the same principles apply: compare at least 3 insurers to find the best price according to your profile and your neighborhood.

The Best Auto Insurers in Quebec in 2026

The automobile insurance market in Quebec has more than 20 active insurers. Here are the top 9, compared according to their strengths and positioning. A broker like Assur360 compares these insurers for you in minutes.

insurer app Insurer member discounts insurer insurance mutual insurance service programs Insurer

Insurer	Type	Highlights	Via broker
Intact Insurance	National	Canada’s largest insurer, network of recommended garages, mobile	✓
Desjardins (The Personal)	Direct	Largest insurer in Quebec, Desjardins	Live
Beneva	Composite	Resulting from the merger of SSQ + La Capitale, combined offer of savings	✓
Promutuel Insurance	Regional	Strong local presence, personalized service, competitive rates in the region	✓
Wawanesa	Insurer via broker	Lowest rates, excellent post-disaster	✓
Industrial Alliance (iA)	Insurer via broker	Group discount vouchers, loyalty	✓
CAA-Quebec	Direct	CAA member discounts, roadside assistance included	Live
Aviva Canada	Insurer via broker	Competitive prices, good for profiles with a track record	✓
The Unique Insurance	Insurer via broker	Quebec specialist, advantageous rates in the regions	✓

7 of the above 9 insurers can be accessed through a broker. This is the main advantage of going through Assur360: a single quote gives you access to these insurers without shopping around individually.

Why choose Assur360 for your car insurance?

Your protection supervised by the Quebec authorities

In Quebec, the property and casualty insurance sector is strictly regulated to protect consumers:

• Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) — The organization that oversees the entire Quebec financial sector, including auto insurance. All insurers and brokers must hold a valid AMF licence.
• Chambre de l’assurance de dommages (CHAD) — The self-regulatory organization that oversees damage insurance brokers and agents. You can check your broker’s certifications on their public registry.
• Act respecting the distribution of financial products and services (Distribution Act) — The law that governs the sale of insurance in Quebec and protects your rights as a consumer.
• Éducaloi — Free legal resource to help you understand your insurance rights in Quebec.

Assur360’s broker partners are all certified by the AMF and members of the CHAD. Your protection is in good hands.

Frequently Asked Questions — Car Insurance in Quebec

Is car insurance mandatory in Quebec?

Yes. In Quebec, all vehicle owners must have at least $50,000 in liability insurance. This minimum coverage is required by the Automobile Insurance Act. It covers property damage caused to others in the event of an accident. Bodily injuries are covered by the SAAQ public plan.

How much does car insurance cost in Quebec in 2026?

The average price is between $700 and $1,500 per year for a driver with a good record. The cost varies depending on your age, driving experience, vehicle, place of residence, claims history and coverage chosen. Comparing multiple insurers saves an average of $400.

What is the difference between the SAAQ and a private insurer?

Quebec has a unique regime in Canada. The SAAQ automatically covers the bodily injuries of all road users, regardless of the fault. Private insurance covers property damage: repair of your vehicle, damage to other people’s property, theft, vandalism and other additional coverage. Both are necessary.

What does motor liability insurance cover?

Third-party liability insurance covers property damage that you cause to others in an accident for which you are responsible. This includes damage to the other driver’s vehicle, public property, and personal items. The legal minimum is $50,000, but experts recommend at least $1,000,000.

How can I reduce the cost of my car insurance?

Seven strategies: 1) Compare at least 3 insurers; 2) Bundle car and home (5-15% discount); 3) Increase your deductible; 4) Install an anti-theft device; 5) Maintain a good driving record; 6) Take a defensive driving course; 7) Apply for all available discounts (annual payment, low mileage, winter tires).

What is the FAQ 43 (replacement cost) endorsement?

The FAQ 43 endorsement allows you to be compensated for the replacement cost of your vehicle in the event of a total loss, rather than its depreciated value. Particularly advantageous for new or recent vehicles (less than 5 years old). Without this endorsement, you receive the market value at the time of the loss.

How long does an online quote take?

With Assur360, you can get and compare prices from 9 Quebec insurers in 3 minutes. You will need your driver’s license, vehicle information (year, make, model), and zip code. The quote is free and without obligation.

What to do in the event of a car accident?

1) Ensure safety; 2) Call 911 if necessary; 3) Fill out a joint report; 4) Take pictures; 5) Write down the contact information of witnesses; 6) Contact your insurer within 24 hours; 7) For injuries, file a claim with the SAAQ.

Does my insurance cover driving in the United States?

Yes, most Quebec policies include coverage in the U.S. and Canada. However, U.S. minimums are often higher. It is recommended that you increase your liability to at least $2,000,000 before crossing the border.

What is the deductible in car insurance?

The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurer covers the rest. With a $500 deductible and $3,000 damages, you pay $500 and the insurer pays $2,500. A higher deductible reduces your annual premium. The common deductibles are $250, $500 and $1,000.

Are winter tires mandatory in Quebec?

Yes, from December 1st to March 15th. Failure to comply results in a fine of $200 to $300. Some insurers offer a discount if you install your winter tires before the deadline. The tyres must bear the mountain and snowflake pictogram.

Is a car insurance broker free?

Yes. The broker is compensated by a commission paid by the insurer, at no cost to you. The advantage is that it compares the offers of several insurers to find you the best coverage at the best price, while advising you according to your personal situation.

What coverage should I choose for a new vehicle?

For a new vehicle: 1) Civil liability of $2,000,000; 2) Collision Protection (B1); 3) All-risk protection (B2); 4) Endorsement FAQ 43 (replacement cost); 5) Endorsement FAQ 20 (replacement vehicle). This comprehensive coverage protects your investment.

What happens if I drive without insurance in Quebec?

Driving without insurance is illegal: a fine of $325 to $2,200, seizure of the vehicle, demerit points and the obligation to provide proof of insurance to the SAAQ. In the event of an accident, you would be personally liable for any property damage caused.

How does my place of residence affect my premium?

Urban areas like Montreal and Laval have higher premiums due to traffic volume, accident rate, and risk of theft. Rural areas benefit from lower premiums. The type of parking (garage, street) also plays a role.

How does the demerit point system work?

The SAAQ awards demerit points for violations of the Highway Safety Code (1 to 15 points per offence). At 15 points, your licence is revoked (8 for a new driver). Demerit points also increase your car insurance premium.

What is the difference between “car insurance” and “car insurance”?

There is no difference. The terms “car insurance” and “car insurance” refer to exactly the same product. Automobile insurance is the official term used in Quebec legislation and by the AMF, while “automobile insurance” is the short form used in everyday language. At Assur360, we compare the same 9 certified insurers, regardless of the term used.

Can I insure a vehicle that is not in my name?

Yes, as long as you can demonstrate an insurable interest (you regularly use the vehicle or you are a co-borrower). Inform your insurer of the situation to obtain the appropriate coverage.

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