Frequently asked questions

The AIRB does not provide quotes or recommendations for auto insurance. There are many things to consider when choosing auto insurance. We encourage Albertans to shop the insurance market to find the right policy for them. We also have resources to help you find an insurance company that meets your needs. If you are interested in obtaining a quote, contact your agent, broker or direct writer, or refer to our list of auto insurance companies.

The Ministerial Order defines a “Good Driver” as a driver who, regardless of how many years they have been driving, does not have ANY of the following at the start of their policy renewal:

• any at-fault claims in the last six years
• any criminal code convictions in the last four years
• any major convictions in the last three years
• any minor convictions in the last three years

If you meet the definition of a good driver, have not moved, changed vehicles, or added a new driver to your policy, then contact your insurance company to find out why the Good Driver Rate Cap did not apply to you.

Your rate is determined by a combination of factors, including your personal characteristics, vehicle type, coverage amount, deductible, and insurance company. There are three ways to purchase auto insurance in Alberta. The option you choose is a matter of personal preference.

• Agent: An insurance agent sells products from one company
• Broker: An insurance broker has contracts to sell insurance for more than one insurance company
• Direct Writer: A direct writer insurance company has its own sales employees to sell policies through an office, call centre, or website

Many insurance companies and independent insurance quoting sites have tools to provide drivers with quotes. The AIRB encourages you to shop the market and use our rate comparison tool.

Use the Insurance Brokers Association of Alberta (IBAA) “Find a Broker” tool.

Your insurance still applies when you lend your vehicle as long as:

• Your friend has the proper documents in case of an accident (insurance, registration, etc.)
• Your friend has a valid driver’s license
• You gave verbal or written permission for the friend to drive your car (i.e. your friend didn’t steal your car)

Learn who to contact here.

Many factors affect how your insurance rate is calculated, such as inflation, theft, fraud, weather, and changes in driving behaviour.

This rule ensures all Alberta drivers can get required auto insurance, including third-party liability and accident benefits. Insurance companies cannot refuse this coverage to new or existing customers, except in certain cases like non-payment.

A grid step is a position on a scale that measures licensed experience and at-fault accident claims. Each step is associated with a percentage used in the grid rate calculation.

Ride-share drivers should know that standard personal auto insurance does not cover vehicles used to carry passengers for payment. Learn more here.

The Government of Alberta introduced DCPD as part of auto insurance reforms announced in October 2020. It took effect for all policies on January 1, 2022.

Its goal is to make vehicle damage claims simpler and faster. After an accident, drivers deal directly with their own insurance company instead of the other driver’s insurer.

DCPD is required coverage in Alberta. It changes who pays for the damage, not what is covered. Learn more here.

Refer to the Alberta Government website for a list of endorsements available to Alberta drivers. Ask your broker or agent which ones are appropriate for your needs.