Driving in Canada?

Oh, Canada. While many times you seem like U.S.A. North in so many ways including entertainment and sports, and your generally open policy towards border crossings for U.S. and Canadian citizens, there are some differences that are just unexpected.  Like auto insurance.

Did you know that in order to drive in Canada you have to have a special ID card issued?  Not only that, but it has to be an "original" card, meaning faxed copies are not allowed.  I just got off the phone with Travelers Insurance and they said it was lucky that I called ahead because it takes about a week to have the card processed and mailed out to me.  The card is also only good for 30 days, so if you're planning to be in Canada for longer, you'll have to work that out with the insurnace company and possibly buy something more permanent at your destination.

Why do U.S. drivers need to have this special ID card?  Here's a snippet from the U.S. State Department's travel.gov website:

Driving in Canada is similar to driving in many parts of the United States. Distances and speeds, however, are posted in kilometers per hour and some signs, particularly in Quebec, may only be in French. U.S. driver’s licenses are valid in Canada. Proof of auto insurance is required. U.S. auto insurance is accepted as long as an individual is a tourist in Canada. U.S. insurance firms will issue a Canadian insurance card, which should be obtained and carried prior to driving into Canada. For specific information concerning Canadian driving permits, mandatory insurance and entry regulations, please contact the Canadian National Tourist Organization.


Here's my experience on this whole thing...the cards are "required", but Canada also recognizes your U.S. auto insurance case of an accident.

I think the reason the cards are required is because they have to be issued by the insurance company and can't just be printed off by an insurance agent, or by a policy holder, online. This tells the Canadian authorities that the insurance is valid.  And since Canada has it's own laws regarding coverage this is important.

If you're renting a car in Canada when you get there and you purchase the rental car company's insurance, they will give you the required documentation (or it's probably already in the car).  However, if you're relying on your own insurance to cover you while renting (which is what I do), then you'll need to contact your insurance company to have them issue a card. It will be for your owned vehicle, but it will suffice.

If you have any other questions please give me a call and I'll be happy to help.