If you’re new to driving in B.C. or simply need to renew or update your policy, one of the first steps is getting a quotation in insurance from ICBC. Whether you’re looking for personal, commercial, or fleet insurance, your local Autoplan broker is your go-to resource.
Let’s walk through what you need to get started and what determines how much you’ll pay.
When to Contact an Autoplan Broker
You should get in touch us at King Insurance if:
- You want an estimate for a new policy
- You need a quotation for a commercial or fleet vehicle
- You do not currently have a B.C. driver’s license or ICBC insurance
Our team at King Insurance is happy to help with any of these cases. We’ll guide you through the process to ensure your vehicle is properly insured.
What Information You Need for an Auto Insurance Quote
To generate an accurate ICBC auto insurance quotation, your insurance agent will ask for:
- Your valid driver’s licence (B.C. driver’s license preferred)
- Vehicle details, including make, model, year, and registration
- Your driving history, including past crashes and claims
- Everyone who regularly uses the car, including their experience
- How the car is used (e.g., commuting, delivery, business purposes)
- Where the vehicle is primarily located
Having this information ready speeds up the process and helps ensure your policy is tailored to your actual risk and usage.
How ICBC Calculates Insurance Premiums
ICBC uses a risk-based pricing model, meaning your premium is directly tied to how likely you are to make a claim. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that impact your insurance costs:
1. Driving Experience
The longer you’ve been driving, the better. Drivers can save money on their Basic insurance for up to 40 years of driving experience. Safe drivers benefit most—premium discounts can be reduced after a single at-fault crash and removed entirely after a second.
2. Crash History
The more crashes you’ve caused, the more you’ll pay. Even a single at-fault crash can significantly increase your premium.
3. Other Drivers
You’re required to list anyone who regularly drives your car. Their crash and driving history will also affect your rate. Failing to list them could lead to denied claims.
4. Where You Live
B.C. is divided into 14 geographic territories based on traffic patterns and road risks. For example, vehicles located in the Lower Mainland may have higher premiums due to more traffic congestion, while rural areas may face poor road conditions or wildlife collisions.
5. How You Use the Vehicle
Your rate class is based on how the vehicle is used. Common classes include:
- Pleasure use – day-to-day driving, errands, kids’ activities, etc. You can also commute up to 6 days a month.
- Commuting – driving to and from work or school regularly.
- Business use – travel for work, client visits, etc.
- Delivery use – for food or parcel delivery (e.g., DoorDash, SkipTheDishes).
It’s essential to be accurate about usage. Being in the wrong rate class can leave you underinsured, and in some cases, personally responsible for claim costs.
Other Factors That Affect Your Quotation
Beyond your risk profile and usage, a few other factors will impact your ICBC insurance quotation:
- Vehicle Details: The age, make, model, and repair costs of your car.
- Optional Coverages: Choosing Collision, Comprehensive, or Extended Third Party Liability increases your premium but adds valuable protection.
- Deductibles: A higher deductible means a lower premium—but more out-of-pocket cost in the event of a claim.
ICBC Discounts and Savings
There are a number of ways to lower your insurance premium. Make sure to talk to your insurance agent about these savings:
Low-Kilometre Savings
If you drive under 5,000 km per year, you could get 10% off Basic coverage and 10–15% off Optional coverages. ICBC may request odometer readings to verify eligibility.
Advanced Safety Features
Vehicles equipped with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) qualify for a 10% discount. This applies to both Basic and Optional policies.
Anti-Theft Reductions
If your car has a passive electronic immobilizer, you may save on Comprehensive or Specified Perils coverage. If the device prevents theft—or helps recover your stolen vehicle—you may also be eligible for a $100 deductible rebate.
Seniors’ Reductions
Drivers aged 65 and older qualify for Basic insurance discounts when the vehicle is used for pleasure. Seniors can now use the vehicle for up to 6 days/month for commuting or delivery and still qualify.
Disability Savings
If you’re part of the Fuel Tax Refund Program for Persons with Disabilities, you may qualify for 25% off Basic coverage for one eligible vehicle.
Fleet Discounts
Companies insuring five or more vehicles may qualify for up to 63% savings on their Autoplan premiums. This is especially relevant for delivery services and commercial fleets.
Get a Personalized ICBC Quotation Today
At King Insurance, we’re here to walk you through the entire process—whether you’re switching providers, getting your first B.C. policy, or insuring a commercial fleet.
Call, visit or connect with us online today for your ICBC quotation. We’ll make sure you get the right coverage, the right discounts, and the confidence to drive knowing you’re protected.
Located at the northwest corner of Marine Drive and Main Street, King Insurance proudly serves not only the South Vancouver communities of Marpole, Sunset, Oakridge, Victoria–Fraserview, and nearby areas like Marine Gateway and Marine Landing, but also clients across Richmond and the entire Lower Mainland. As your local insurance representative, we’re here to provide reliable, affordable coverage, online or in person, wherever you live or work in the region.
Ka Hing Cheung is proud to work in the insurance industry, helping people manage risk and protect what matters most. Ka Hing is committed to ongoing learning and enjoys helping clients find the right coverage at the best available rate, while making sure they understand their options clearly.