Why Do We Have ICBC?

ICBC provides essential auto insurance services to all British Columbians. Photo: ICBC

Have you ever experienced a hit-and-run? Do you find yourself frustrated with other drivers' behaviour on the road? Are you unsure how to handle these situations properly?

If these questions resonate with you, understanding ICBC is essential. As British Columbia's primary provider of auto insurance, driver's licensing, vehicle registration and road safety services, ICBC is your comprehensive resource for all vehicle-related matters, including accident claims.

Basic insurance: Mandatory protection

ICBC was established to provide affordable and universal auto insurance to all British Columbians, ensuring every driver has coverage regardless of their background or financial circumstances. By collectively pooling risks, ICBC helps stabilize insurance rates and protects drivers from unexpected premium increases.

Important: Basic ICBC insurance is mandatory for all vehicles registered in British Columbia.

ICBC handles thousands of accident claims each year across British Columbia. Photo: CBC News

One-stop services for drivers

ICBC streamlines vehicle ownership by managing all aspects of driver's licensing and vehicle registration in one place. For newcomers to B.C., ICBC offers a structured process that varies based on your country of origin:

• Some international drivers can directly exchange their existing licence

• Others may need to complete knowledge and road tests to obtain a valid B.C. licence

This integrated approach makes it convenient to handle all your driving documentation needs through a single organization.

Driver's licences and vehicle registration are both managed through ICBC. Photo: MyBeacon.ca

Committed to safer roads

Road safety remains a critical priority for ICBC. According to their statistics, British Columbia experiences approximately 286,500 motor vehicle crashes annually (based on 2012-2021 data). To address this concerning figure, ICBC actively implements:

• Educational programs for drivers of all ages

• Enforcement initiatives including intersection cameras

• Accident prevention campaigns

• Research into road safety improvements

These efforts collectively work to reduce collision rates and create safer roadways throughout the province.

ICBC received hundreds of claims after recent atmospheric river events in B.C. Photo: CityNews Vancouver

A public corporation serving British Columbians

Unlike private insurers, ICBC operates as a public corporation. This fundamental difference means that revenues are reinvested into services that benefit all British Columbians, such as claims processing improvements, driver education programs, and road safety initiatives rather than being distributed to shareholders.

As a B.C. resident, ICBC is your designated resource for addressing any road-related incident. Whether you're applying for your first driver's licence, registering a new vehicle, or navigating the aftermath of an accident, your local ICBC service centre provides the guidance and support you need to drive with confidence in British Columbia.