Do You Need Insurance To Register a Vehicle In Alberta
Yes, insurance is mandatory to register a vehicle in Alberta. Under Alberta law, all vehicles operated or parked on public roadways must have valid insurance coverage and a Vehicle Registration Certificate.
Legal Requirements Under Alberta Law
The requirement for vehicle insurance before registration is codified in several pieces of Alberta legislation. The Traffic Safety Act, RSA 2000, c T-6 specifically mandates that all motor vehicles on highways must carry valid insurance coverage. Section 54(1) of the Traffic Safety Act states that no person shall drive or have a motor vehicle on a highway unless it is an insured vehicle covered by a motor vehicle liability policy that conforms to Part 7 of the Insurance Act, RSA 2000, c I-3.
The Insurance Act establishes the policy requirements for automobile insurance classes and statutory conditions that must be included in all insurance policies. These laws work together to ensure that vehicle registration and insurance requirements are mandatory and enforceable throughout Alberta.
Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements
In Alberta, all vehicle owners are required to have one of three types of mandatory automobile insurance before registering:
• Third Party Liability Coverage: Minimum $200,000 in coverage for injury, death, and property damage to others
• Accident Benefits Coverage: Mandatory coverage for medical expenses and other benefits for occupants injured in an accident
• Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD): Coverage for property damage in certain accident scenarios
Additional optional coverages such as collision and comprehensive insurance are not required by law but may be mandated by lenders if the vehicle is financed or leased. Most Alberta drivers purchase coverage exceeding the minimum legal requirements for enhanced protection.
Registration Without Insurance is Prohibited
Alberta law explicitly prohibits vehicle registration without valid insurance coverage. Registry agents are legally required to verify insurance coverage before processing any registration application. The insurance certificate must:
• Be issued by a licensed insurance company authorized to operate in Alberta
• Include the full legal name(s) of the person(s) requesting registration
• Provide coverage that meets or exceeds minimum provincial requirements
• Be valid and current at the time of registration
Registry agents cannot complete registration applications for vehicles lacking proper insurance documentation, ensuring compliance with provincial insurance laws.