Car insurance name change

Ensuring that your car insurance matches the name on your driver's licence is essential. So, what happens if you've recently had a name change? Is it even possible to change the legal name on your driver's licence and insurance coverage? Stick around to find out.

Can I change a named driver on my auto insurance policy?

The short answer is yes; you can change the name on your insurance policy. Whether it be because you've recently gotten married or any other reason, changing your name is possible--you just need to make sure that you inform your insurer as soon as possible.

Who can make changes to an insurance policy?

Changes to an insurance policy can only be made by the primary policyholder that is listed on this insurance document. If you are the primary policyholder and need to make a change to your policy before its expiry date, you can do so by reaching out to an agent at your insurance company or contacting a broker. They can help you get a new policy or make changes to your new one. Just note that if you want to cancel your insurance coverage before you're up for a renewal, you may face cancellation fees.

How to change the name on my insurance policy

One of the most common reasons drivers opt for a name change with their providers is because of marriage. Luckily, regardless of the reason you have for changing your name on your documents, the process is fairly easy to do. Here is how you can request a name change with your provider:

Gather the right documents

Before you go to your provider, make sure you collect proof of your marriage or your divorce certificate, along with your vehicle registration, insurance papers, and current driver's licence.

Make an appointment with your current insurance company

Most of the time, changing your name needs to be done in person at a driver services centre. Once you've changed the name on your driver's licence, you can go ahead and make an appointment with your insurance company.

Request a name change

At your appointment, you'll likely work with an insurance agent. Tell them that you'd like to request a name change on your insurance. The agent will ask for proof of registration, including your new licence. You'll also be asked to fill out a request form. Once these documents have been verified, they can be five the transfer process.

Get your new documents

After the transfer process is complete, providers will issue your new insurance policies under your new name. During this time, you may want to review your current coverage and determine whether any changes to your policy are needed to ensure that you are sufficiently insured. Once you've confirmed this, you can go ahead and store your new documents in your glove compartment for easy access in the future.

Protect your vehicle with quality car insurance

Driving without insurance puts you and others on the road at risk--it's also illegal. While each province and territory has its own coverage limit requirements, here's a closer look at the different types of auto insurance you need:

Third-party liability coverage

Third-party liability insurance protects the policyholder should they cause bodily injuries or property damage to a third party while operating a motor vehicle. Should a lawsuit be filed against you, this car insurance policy will cover the cost of medical bills, repairs, legal fees, and other costs that may arise as a result of the lawsuit. This auto insurance is mandatory for all vehicle owners.

Uninsured motorist insurance

Uninsured motorist coverage will cover the cost of vehicle repairs if you get into an accident with an at-fault driver who is uninsured or underinsured. This insurance coverage will also protect you if you are involved in a hit-and-run collision. Again, this policy is mandatory in all provinces and territories.

Accident benefits coverage

Accident benefits cover the final mandatory policy required by motorists in Canada. If you are in a car accident where you, your passengers, or pedestrians are injured, accident benefits insurance will cover the cost of medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other expenses during your recovery period.

Comprehensive car insurance

Comprehensive car coverage will pay for the cost of repairs to your vehicle if it is damaged by a non-collision event. For example, if your vehicle is stolen, vandalized, or other events listed in your policy, comprehensive coverage will come in handy. Note that vehicle owners will need to pay a deductible before their insurance company will pay the remaining amount.

Collision coverage

Collision car coverage is similar to comprehensive. However, it will only cover repairs to your vehicle if it is damaged in an at-fault collision. You'll again need to pay a deductible before your coverage kicks in.

Accident forgiveness

Accident forgiveness is a one-time insurance policy that prevents customers from experiencing a rate increase following their first at-fault accident. This policy is recommended for new drivers and those who have a clean driving record so you can save on your car insurance premiums if you get into an accident in the future.

Contact BrokerLink for insurance coverage

Looking to save on car insurance? Need help changing the name on your insurance? BrokerLink has got you covered. BrokerLink has locations across Canada, which means we could be in your neighbourhood! There are numerous benefits of a broker, so if we're close by, come in and visit us in person! If you aren't nearby, you can always contact us over the phone during business hours to speak with a team member.

And if you're in a rush, feel free to use our free online quote tool for a competitive insurance quote tailored to your needs within minutes.

Get an auto insurance quote 1-866-724-2372

FAQs about car insurance name change

Can I insure a car in someone else's name?

So, can you insure a car in someone else’s name? Unfortunately no. You cannot obtain insurance from an insurance provider for a vehicle if you are not the registered owner of that vehicle. You can, however, be added as a secondary driver on the policy or purchase non-owner insurance, which is specifically designed to protect those who drive regularly, without actually owning a vehicle.

What's the difference between a title and registration?

So, what's the difference between a title and registration? Essentially, a car title is a document that proves you are the owner of a vehicle. You'll either be given the title at the dealership where you buy your new car, or you'll need to get the previous owner of the vehicle to transfer the title to you when you purchase a used vehicle. On the other hand, a vehicle registration is a document you receive from the government that connects your vehicle with your name and address. When you get a copy of a vehicle registration at a service centre, you'll also be given a licence plate and registration number. Ultimately, this allows police officers and other motorists to recognize your vehicle.

How much is a registration ticket?

Whether you're purchasing a new vehicle or a used one, you'll need to register your car with the government to receive a licence plate. Failing to do so as soon as possible can lead to fines and penalties on your driver's licence. So, what is the cost of a registration ticket? While it will depend on which province or territory you live in, in Ontario, there's a minimum $230 fine and possible demerit points, depending on how long past the registration date it is and whether you've committed this type of offence previously. Be sure to check the standards in your home province to ensure you are always in accordance with the law.

How long do I have to change my car insurance after moving to Ontario?

If you've recently moved to Ontario, you'll need to apply for a new licence and insurance policy as it is crucial that it matches your new address. That said, moving to a new address can be a long and stressful process, making your address change one of the last things on your long list of to-dos. Luckily, there's no need to panic as you'll have 30 days to change your licence, register your vehicle and insure it. Note that after the 30 days have passed, you may face fines and other consequences.

Can car insurance be transferred to a new owner?

No, if you're selling your car and getting a new vehicle, you cannot transfer your current insurance to the new driver. Insurance needs to be in the same name as the vehicle's owner. As such, you will need to transfer vehicle ownership at the time of the vehicle's sale. Once the transfer process is completed, the new owner will need to register the vehicle and then purchase their own insurance.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.