Is there such a thing as having car insurance with two principal drivers? Not in Quebec. Even if two people regularly use the same car (such as a couple, roommates or a parent and adult child), only one main driver can be listed on the insurance policy. Here’s why!

Why can’t we have two principal drivers?

Quebec regulations are clear: For each vehicle, a single principal driver must be designated. This person represents the main risk in the eyes of the insurer, and their driving record is what will influence the premium. Even if two drivers use the vehicle equally, the insurer must designate one of those drivers as the primary operator (the one who drives the vehicle the most often) and assign the other as secondary (or occasional, depending on frequency of use). This distinction is essential to maintain the validity of the contract and avoid problems in the event of a claim.

Who’s considered the principal driver?

The principal driver on the insurance policy is the person who uses the insured car most frequently. (Generally, it’s the owner of the vehicle who gets listed in this position.) To avoid problems in the event of an accident, it’s crucial to declare the person who drives most often as the principal driver.

What are the different types of drivers in Quebec?

When it comes to ownership and operation of a car in Quebec, there are three main categories of driver:

• Principal operator: The driver who uses the vehicle most often. For example, the person who uses it every day to get to work.
• Secondary operator: A driver who uses the vehicle regularly, but not as much as the principal operator.
• Occasional operator: A person who drives the vehicle from time to time, such as a teenager or a spouse who occasionally borrows a car.

Every operator in the household who will be driving the vehicle at any point must be listed in the insurance contract. Failure to do so may lead to a denial of compensation or a reassessment of the premium after an accident.

Who can be added as an occasional driver?

Anyone with a valid driver’s license who will frequently be using your car must be added to your policy. If you’re the person with a driver’s license but doesn’t own a vehicle, yet regularly drives someone else’s car, you should be listed as a driver on the owner’s policy.

Depending on the province, all licensed household members may also need to be included as drivers on your policy unless they already have their own active insurance. If a new member of the household only has a learner’s permit, it’s usually not necessary to add them for the time being, but once they obtain their license, you’ll need to review their insurance options.

How do I add a driver to a contract?

Adding a driver to your auto insurance policy ensures that anyone who drives your vehicle on a regular basis is covered when they’re on the road. In Quebec, the rules may vary from insurer to insurer, but the following general principles apply to most companies:

1. Contact your insurance company

If someone other than you drives your vehicle regularly or repeatedly, you must inform your insurer. This will enable them to assess the risk and, if necessary, add this person as a driver to your contract.

Example:

If your spouse, adult child or friend uses your car every week, it’s a good idea to add them to your policy. However, if someone borrows it for a day or a short trip, there’s generally no need to declare it.

2. Provide driver information

The insurer will need the following information to add a driver to your policy:

• Full name and date of birth
• Driver’s license number and province of issue
• Driving history (infractions, claims, suspensions etc.)
• Relationship to principal insured (spouse, child, friend etc.)
• Frequency of vehicle use

3. Wait for confirmation before driving

The additional driver must be approved by the insurer before they begin to regularly drive your car. If an accident occurs before the contract is officially updated, the coverage may not apply as previously planned.

4. Check the impact on your premium

Adding a driver could change the cost of your insurance, depending on factors such as the secondary driver’s age, driving experience and record in the central claims database. If your occasional driver has a good record, there shouldn’t be as much impact on your premium; however, if they’re a young driver or someone with a history of accidents, your premium could increase.

5. Update your policy as needed

Be sure to notify your insurer if:

• A driver stops using your vehicle
• Someone else now drives it more often than you (they may then become established as the principal driver)
• You buy a new vehicle or change your usage (such as more frequent commuting to work)

Good to know:

Automobile insurance in Quebec is tied to the vehicle, not just the driver. If you lend your car to someone on an occasional basis, your insurance usually applies, as long as the person has a valid license and your permission. But if this person doesn’t drive your vehicle on a regular basis, or if the situation changes (new main driver, new vehicle, etc.), make sure you inform your insurer to avoid any confusion in the event of a claim.

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Frequently asked questions about car insurance with two principal drivers

How do you determine who should be the principal driver?

You must identify the main driver according to how often he or she uses the vehicle – the person who drives the car the most gets this designation. This directly influences the calculation of your premium.

You must list all other drivers, whether secondary or occasional, to ensure the validity of your coverage. An accurate declaration avoids problems in the event of a claim.

Should the owner be listed first?

No, the owner is not automatically designated as the principal driver. The actual use of the vehicle determines this role. Inaccurate information about the identity of the principal operator may invalidate your contract or affect your premium.

In the event of an accident, your insurer may ask you for proof of use. That’s why it’s important to be straightforward about the vehicle’s main driver – it helps you avoid any potential future complications.

Do I have to declare an occasional driver to my insurer?

Yes, if the person drives your vehicle regularly, even if not every day. Insurers in Quebec assess risk based on frequency of use and driving history.