Yes, in Ontario, you are required by law to have valid automobile insurance before you can legally operate a vehicle on the road. When you are buying a car, you will need to provide proof of insurance to the dealership or private seller before you can take possession of the vehicle.
The dealership or seller may ask for proof of insurance before you can test drive the car or finalize the purchase. It’s important to note that the seller is not responsible for providing insurance coverage for the vehicle, so you will need to arrange for your own insurance before taking ownership of the car.
When you purchase car insurance in Ontario, you will receive an insurance card that provides proof of insurance. You should keep this card with you at all times when you are driving, as you may be required to show it to law enforcement officials if you are pulled over or involved in an accident.
Do You Have to Have Insurance to Register a Car?
Yes, in Ontario, you are required by law to have valid automobile insurance before you can register a car. When you register a car with the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO), you will be required to provide proof of insurance.
You will need to present your insurance card or other proof of insurance to the MTO when you register the vehicle. The insurance policy must meet the minimum mandatory coverage requirements set by the province of Ontario. These minimum requirements include third-party liability insurance, which covers you in case you are held responsible for injuring someone or damaging their property while driving.
Without proof of insurance, you will not be able to register the car in Ontario. It’s important to note that driving without insurance is illegal in Ontario and can result in significant fines and penalties, as well as potential legal liabilities in case of an accident.
Can You Drive a Car Off The Lot Without Insurance?
No, you cannot legally drive a car off the lot without insurance in Ontario. When you purchase a car, whether from a dealership or a private seller, you must have valid insurance in place before you can legally drive the vehicle.
The dealership or seller may require proof of insurance before allowing you to test drive the car or take possession of it. If you don’t have insurance, they may be unwilling to let you take the car off the lot.
Driving without insurance in Ontario is illegal and can result in significant fines and penalties, as well as potential legal liabilities in case of an accident. So it’s crucial to obtain insurance coverage before driving any car on public roads in Ontario.