Driving in Newfoundland often means long distances, coastal fog, strong wind and sudden weather changes. Wildlife and limited services on remote stretches add risks that city-only drivers may not face.
This page explains what Newfoundland and Labrador drivers can expect to pay for car insurance and what the quoted premium with MyChoice includes. It also shows how quotes vary by driving experience, record and vehicle. Drivers can review protection for wildlife collisions, severe weather and long trips away from larger communities.
The Newfoundland rates on this page are based on real quotes collected through MyChoice from January to June 2026.
How Much is Car Insurance in Newfoundland?
Based on our internal data, Newfoundland’s median annual auto insurance quote is $1,550, or $129 a month.
| Median annual premium | $1,550 |
| Median monthly premium | $129 |
Understanding Newfoundland’s Auto Insurance Coverage
Most of the premium covers liability, DCPD, uninsured automobile protection and the selected injury benefits. Another $401 pays for collision and comprehensive coverage on the insured vehicle.
Comprehensive is especially relevant in Newfoundland because an eligible contact with a moose is normally treated differently from a collision caused by swerving to avoid one.
| Part of the policy | What is included | Median annual car insurance premium |
|---|---|---|
| Legally required coverage | Third-Party Liability; DCPD; Uninsured Automobile; | $995 |
| Vehicle damage protection | Collision; Comprehensive | $401 |
| Optional coverages included | Accident Benefits; SEF 44 – Family Protection | $154 |
| Coverage Total: | $1,550 |
Accident benefits are an optional coverage type in Newfoundland. Consult with a licensed professional before removing any optional protections from your policy.
How Your Car Insurance Quotes Are Calculated in Newfoundland
Newfoundland and Labrador insurers assess the driver, vehicle, location, use and selected coverage. Since 2005, they cannot rate automobile insurance directly by age, gender or marital status. Driving experience and insurance history can still affect the quote.
Here are the main considerations when insurers calculate your insurance quotes:
Car Insurance for Specific Demographics in Newfoundland
All drivers in Newfoundland must have car insurance to drive legally, regardless of age, race, gender, or any other demographic category. But you may be wondering whether certain demographics receive special treatment for car insurance in the province.
Here’s a look at whether falling into certain demographics changes how you get insurance.
How Your Record Affects Car Insurance in Newfoundland
An at-fault accident adds $1,334 to the clean-record premium, an increase of 86.1%. A minor speeding ticket adds $451, or 29.1%. An impaired-driving conviction produces the highest figure at $3,768 and may leave the driver with fewer regular-market insurance options.
| Driving record | Median annual car insurance premium |
|---|---|
| Clean | $1,550 |
| Minor speeding ticket | $2,001 |
| One at-fault accident | $2,884 |
| Insurance cancellation (non-payment) | $1,853 |
| Licence suspension | $1,814 |
| Impaired driving conviction | $3,768 |
| Stunt driving conviction | $2,809 |
Read More: What Happens to Insurance Costs After a Car Accident
Moose, Fog, Wind, and Long-Distance Driving in Newfoundland
Fog, crosswinds and moose can appear on long Newfoundland routes with little warning. Slow down at night and keep emergency supplies in the vehicle when travelling beyond major centres.
The commuting and population figures below describe Newfoundland in the 2021 Census. They are useful background, not live travel information. Check NL 511 and current municipal notices before travelling.
How Can I Save on Car Insurance in Newfoundland?
You can get cheap car insurance in Newfoundland by lowering your premiums and finding the best-valued insurance policies. Here’s how you can do that:
Other Factors Influencing Your Auto Insurance Premium
In addition to the factors we’ve covered above, more things influence your Newfoundland car insurance rates. Here are some of them:
Newfoundland Car Insurance Costs by Vehicle
Insurers consider repair costs, parts availability, technology, theft experience and the claims history of the exact model. Newfoundland drivers should obtain a quote for the model year and trim they intend to buy rather than relying on the vehicle’s purchase price alone
| Vehicle model | Median annual car insurance premium |
|---|---|
| Toyota Corolla | $1,543 |
| Honda Civic | $1,571 |
| Honda CR-V | $1,431 |
| Hyundai Elantra | $1,535 |
| Mazda CX-5 | $1,387 |
| Volkswagen Jetta | $1,628 |
| Ford Escape | $1,656 |
| RAM 1500 | $1,593 |
| Tesla Model 3 | $1,620 |
| BMW X3 | $1,527 |
| Lexus RX350 | $1,793 |
Who Provides Car Insurance Quotes in Newfoundland?
Insurance brokers, agents, aggregators, and direct writers provide car insurance quotes in Newfoundland. Each insurance quote has its own benefits:
The Most Common Questions About Car Insurance in Newfoundland
Are Newfoundland drivers allowed to carry digital proof of car insurance?
Electronic proof of automobile insurance is permitted when offered by the insurer and accepted by the customer. Drivers should keep a paper card when travelling outside jurisdictions that may not accept electronic proof.
Is there a cancellation of sales tax on car insurance in Newfoundland?
Newfoundland and Labrador eliminated the retail sales tax on automobile insurance contracts entered into or renewed on or after April 15, 2019. This statement refers to the consumer RST, not every tax borne within the insurance system.
What is the cheapest car insurance in Newfoundland for new drivers?
The cheapest car insurance in Newfoundland for new drivers will depend on your budget and needs. Use MyChoice to compare insurer offers and find the cheapest policy.
Do I need winter tires in Newfoundland?
Winter tires are not required by law for ordinary passenger vehicles, but insurers must offer a winter-tire discount for qualifying private passenger vehicles. The amount is set by the insurer.
Does Newfoundland have no-fault insurance?
Newfoundland uses a direct compensation model as part of the no-fault insurance system. This means the person who isn’t at fault for an accident files a claim with their own insurer instead of the at-fault driver’s insurer.
Is there high-risk auto insurance in Newfoundland?
There is high-risk auto insurance in Newfoundland, which you can get from select insurance companies or the Facility Association.
How do I file a car insurance claim in Newfoundland?
You can file a car insurance claim in Newfoundland by contacting your insurer as soon as possible after an accident.
How long do violations stay on my driving record in Newfoundland?
Traffic violations stay on your Newfoundland driving record for two years but can affect insurance rates for longer.
How long do I have to notify my insurance company of vehicle change in Newfoundland?
You have to notify your insurance company immediately when changing vehicles in Newfoundland. Otherwise, you won’t have a valid insurance policy and can’t drive the car.
Is car insurance mandatory in Newfoundland?
Car insurance is mandatory in Newfoundland. Driving without car insurance may result in fines or licence suspensions.
Is insurance on a leased car more expensive in Newfoundland?
A leasing company may require a liability limit of $1 million or more and physical-damage coverage, but this is a contract requirement rather than a universal provincial minimum for every leased vehicle.
Is roadside assistance required in Newfoundland?
Roadside assistance isn’t required in Newfoundland, but it’s still highly recommended.
What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Newfoundland?
Driving without insurance in Newfoundland may result in fines, vehicle impoundment, and licence suspensions.
What is the minimum legal driving age in Newfoundland and Labrador?
The minimum legal driving age in Newfoundland and Labrador is 16. If you’re under 19, you also need parental consent before getting a learner’s licence.
What kind of auto insurance system do Newfoundland and Labrador have?
Newfoundland and Labrador have a direct compensation auto insurance system, where the person who isn’t at fault files a claim with their own insurer.
When did taxes come off auto insurance in Newfoundland?
Newfoundland and Labrador eliminated the retail sales tax on automobile insurance contracts entered into or renewed on or after April 15, 2019.
Who handles auto insurance complaints in Newfoundland?
Auto insurance companies in Newfoundland usually have a complaints liaison officer or ombudsman to handle complaints.
Who sets auto insurance rates in Newfoundland?
Insurance companies set auto insurance rates in Newfoundland independently, but they must be approved by the province’s Board of Commissioners of Public Utilities.
Why are insurance rates in Newfoundland and Labrador so high compared to the rest of Atlantic Canada?
Insurance rates in Newfoundland and Labrador are high compared to the rest of Atlantic Canada because drivers in the province make lots of claims, meaning insurers need to pay more money for insurance benefits.
