Insurance: What is student auto insurance in Canada?

Updated Jul 24, 2026
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Audrey Voisine
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Audrey, co-founder of Milesopedia, is a dedicated entrepreneur, avid traveler, and mother of two children. She shares valuable tips and recommendations for families and frequent travellers alike, helping everyone get the most from points and rewards programs. As Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, she is committed to guiding Milesopedia readers toward more accessible, practical, and memorable journeys.
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Insurance: What is student auto insurance in Canada? - studients étudiants insurance

Student auto insurance is for drivers who attend high school, CEGEP or university. To be considered a “student” by most insurers, you must be 25 or under.

Contrary to what the name suggests, it’s not a discount. It’s actually one of the highest premiums in the Canadian auto insurance market.

Why does student auto insurance cost more?

All insurance works on statistics: groups or events that are more likely to result in a claim pay a higher price. In the insurer’s eyes, a student is still learning to drive and doesn’t have enough experience to be considered a safe driver.

So you’re part of one of the highest-risk groups when it comes to driving, which significantly increases your premiums, regardless of your personal record.

Manitoba and Saskatchewan: the exception

Students who live in Manitoba or Saskatchewan don’t have to pay these higher premiums. In these two provinces, auto insurance is managed by a public system (Manitoba Public Insurance and SGI, respectively), where age isn’t factored into the calculation of an individual insurance price.

How can you lower your auto insurance premiums as a student?

Auto insurance prices for students vary based on several factors. Here are the most effective strategies to save on your auto insurance.

Get your full licence

If you haven’t already, get your full driver’s licence rather than a learner’s permit. Full-licence holders save an average of 10% on their premium compared to learner’s permit holders.

Become a secondary driver on your parents’ policy

If you can’t afford to pay for a policy in your own name, become a secondary driver on your parents’ or guardian’s policy. This option is generally less expensive and still allows you to start building a driving record.

Take advantage of the good grades discount

Many insurers offer a discount to students with a high GPA. It’s often the best discount available for a student: some providers offer up to 25% off when you show a report card.

Install a telematics system

As a new driver, installing a telematics system in your car can significantly reduce your premiums. The device tracks your driving (speed, braking, driving hours) and rewards safe driving. Some drivers find the monitoring restrictive, but if you already follow speed limits, the savings are often worth it.

Compare insurers before renewing

Shop around: compare providers and present the best quote you get to your current insurer before renewing. After comparing two or three insurers, you’ll usually find a better offer than your automatic renewal.

Student auto insurance – FAQ

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Jean-Maximilien Voisine
Jean-Maximilien Voisine
Jean-Maximilien Voisine is the President and Founder of Milesopedia and a leading expert in rewards programs, credit cards, and travel across Canada, France, and the U.S.A. Now 40 years old and a father of two, he has explored more than 100 countries, many of them alongside his wife Audrey and their children. Specializing in loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, Jean-Maximilien helps travellers unlock the full potential of their points and benefits. His mission: empower others to travel better and smarter across North America and Europe.
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