We regret to inform you that only non-residents are permitted to drive a U.S. vehicle in Canada. As an example, Canadian residents cannot bring a U.S. rental vehicle into Canada without meeting the below requirements.
Under the Temporary Importation of Conveyances by Residents of Canada Regulations (see Memorandum D2-4-1 at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/pu...1-eng.html ), a conveyance may be imported temporarily by a resident in the following cases:
For personal transportation only from the point of arrival to a specified destination in Canada when the purpose of importation is to transport personally owned goods into or out of Canada. Return must be within 30 days.
When authorized by a customs inspector in instances where a resident is required, due to unforeseen circumstances or emergency reasons, to utilize a conveyance on which duties have not been paid for personal transportation to reach a specified destination in Canada and return.
Under no circumstances are conveyances admissible under these regulations for touring purposes or for leisure activities in Canada, nor is any local use permitted (e.g., point-to-point movement in Canada).
We trust you find this information helpful and we thank you for contacting the Canada Border Services Agency.
Who needs Autoplan?
Basic Autoplan is the compulsory insurance for anyone in B.C. who owns and drives a motor vehicle on a highway. Tourists, visitors, visiting students and armed forces personnel are exempt from buying Autoplan insurance. If you are exempt, make sure you are covered by an existing policy from elsewhere.
To ensure that all British Columbians are protected, you are required by law to hold at least the ICBC Basic Autoplan coverage. Some groups described below are exempt from this requirement.
Tourists and visitors
If you are just visiting B.C. as a tourist and brought your vehicle with you, you can drive with your existing insurance for up to six months for touring purposes only.
Students
Visiting students can drive in B.C. without Autoplan insurance but must be registered full-time at a recognized institution.
Visiting students need to obtain a Combined Certificate of Registration of a Non-Resident Motor Vehicle and Insurance Certificate to operate a vehicle in B.C. within 30 days of arrival. Ask your Autoplan broker for more details.
Armed forces personnel
Some non-resident military personnel may be exempt and may need to obtain a Combined Certificate of Registration of a Non-Resident Motor Vehicle and Insurance Certificate to operate a vehicle in B.C. within 30 days of arrival. For more insurance information on driving in B.C. as a visitor, please visit an Autoplan broker.
Any questions?
Call our interjurisdictional licensing line:
Anywhere in B.C.: (604) 443-4624
Toll-free: 1-800-665-4336