- adam32281
- Mar 30
- 10 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Insuring a JDM Car in Canada: Trusted Insurance Providers by Province
So you’ve just imported your dream JDM car—congratulations! You've found a great JDM mechanical shop and obtained your provincial safety certification. Now comes the final (but crucial) step before hitting the road: getting it insured.
But here’s the thing… insuring a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle in Canada isn’t as simple as walking into a mainstream provider and asking for a quote. From unfamiliar VIN formats to right-hand-drive concerns, many insurance agents simply don’t know what to do when faced with a freshly imported JDM ride.
That’s why we created this guide—to walk you through exactly what to expect, how to navigate common roadblocks, and which insurance providers by province have experience working with JDM car owners.
What You’ll Need to Get Your JDM Vehicle Insured (And How We’ve Got You Covered)
Insuring your imported JDM vehicle can feel a little overwhelming—
That’s exactly why every JDM Rush Imports customer receives a custom Information Package with everything an insurance provider might ask for—and why we’re always just a phone call away if you or your broker needs help.
Here’s what you’ll typically need to get insured in Canada:
✅ Bill of Sale (original from Japan + translated version)
✅ Vehicle Export Certificate (original + translated copy)
✅ Customs Clearance Documentation
✅ Bill of Lading (proof of shipment)
✅ Provincial Safety Inspection Certificate
✅ Vehicle Appraisal (if required by insurer for declared value)
✅ Registry & Insurance Info Sheet (included in your package – answers common broker questions)
💡 Many mainstream insurance systems aren’t used to JDM-specific details, like shorter VINs or RHD layouts. Our documents are designed to simplify this process and give your insurer everything they need to move forward with confidence.
We’re Always Here to Help
If your insurance broker runs into questions or seems unsure, don’t stress—we’ve seen it all.
You or your provider can call us directly anytime, and we’ll walk them through the process, clarify paperwork, or help get the right coverage in place. We've already helped hundreds of customers get insured quickly and confidently—you're in good hands.
How the Process Works: What to Expect When Calling an Insurer
When contacting an insurance provider, keep these best practices in mind:
1. Be Upfront
Let them know it’s a right-hand-drive, Japanese import, and that it’s over 15 years old (exempt from RIV). Mention any modifications.
2. Offer Documentation
Email or present your full import packet. Insurers may be unfamiliar with Japanese documents, but the ones we've listed below do understand what they’re looking at.
3. Ask the Right Questions
Do you insure JDM vehicles or right-hand-drive cars?
Do you offer declared value or agreed value policies?
Will modifications impact my coverage?
Will I need an appraisal?
What If My Insurance Provider Requests a Vehicle Appraisal?
In some cases, especially when insuring imported JDM vehicles, your insurance provider may ask for a professional vehicle appraisal before issuing a comprehensive policy. While this may feel like an extra hoop to jump through, it’s actually a great opportunity to protect yourself and your vehicle investment.
An appraisal provides an official third-party valuation of your JDM car’s current market value—helping ensure that in the event of a claim, your payout will reflect the vehicle’s true worth, not just a generic blue book number that doesn’t account for rarity, modifications, or condition.
Many of our customers who import classic or high-performance JDM vehicles choose to get an appraisal proactively, even when it’s not required. It can be incredibly helpful documentation—especially if your car is modified, rare, or in pristine condition with ultra-low kilometers.
💬 Pro Tip: If your insurance broker or underwriter is unfamiliar with your specific vehicle (which is common with JDMs), an appraisal can also act as a trust-building tool that helps them feel more confident in writing a fair policy.
So how do you get one done? What should you expect? And where can you find a trusted appraiser?
We break it all down in our new blog post: 👉 Why Your JDM Might Need a Vehicle Appraisal (And How to Get One)
In that guide, we cover:
Why insurance companies request appraisals
Why getting one can be a good idea (even if it’s not required)
How the appraisal process works
What to look for in a 5-star appraisal company
And a list of recommended JDM-friendly vehicle appraisers across Canada
Trusted Insurance Providers by Province
Below is a growing list of Canadian insurance providers and brokers that our customers have had success with when insuring JDM imports:
British Columbia: The Co-operators - Vancouver Area - Langley (Ask for Kyle!)
If you’re insuring a JDM car in BC, The Co-operators location in Langley is a gem—especially if you talk to Kyle. Known in the local JDM community for his knowledge of right-hand-drive imports and how to register and insure them properly, Kyle has become the go-to guy for hassle-free ICBC processing.
Even if Kyle’s not there, the team is well-trained (thanks to his detailed instructions) and ready to help you through the process. Whether you’re insuring your first JDM vehicle or registering multiple imports, this office has earned a reputation for making it smooth, accurate, and surprisingly easy.
Contact:
8-8590 200 St, Langley, BC V2Y 2B9 (Find a local Co-operators agent via www.cooperators.ca)
Community Tip:
“I send everyone I know here. They know their stuff when it comes to JDM paperwork.”
British Columbia: Johnston Meier Insurance – Coquitlam (Ask for Angela Lugrin)
If you’re looking for a smooth, stress-free experience insuring your imported JDM vehicle in BC, Angela Lugrin at Johnston Meier Insurance in Coquitlam is a top-tier choice. She’s been highly recommended by JDM owners for her step-by-step guidance, in-depth knowledge of right-hand-drive imports, and no-nonsense approach to getting things done right the first time.
Angela will walk you through exactly what documents you need, help get your VIN registered properly, and make sure your JDM is insured and ready to hit the road—all with friendly, professional service from start to finish.
Contact:
Johnston Meier Insurance, Coquitlam, BC
(604) 468-4188
Customer Tip:
“She took care of everything and made it easy—can’t recommend her enough.”
Alberta: Western Financial Group
Navigating insurance for right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles in Alberta is made easier with Western Financial Group. With a comprehensive understanding of the nuances involved in insuring RHD cars, they offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.
Services Offered:
Personalized Insurance Solutions: Western Financial Group provides standard coverages such as liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance, along with optional add-ons to ensure your RHD vehicle is well-protected.
Expert Guidance: Their team of insurance professionals will guide you through the process, helping you understand factors that influence your policy, including location, driving experience, vehicle type, and usage.
Contact Information:
1-866-860-1958 Western Financial Group RHD Blog Post
Alberta Locations: With multiple offices across Alberta, including Calgary, Western Financial Group is accessible for your insurance needs. Visit their website to find the branch nearest to you.
For more detailed information on insuring RHD vehicles, you can refer to their dedicated blog post: How to Insure a Right-Hand Drive CarWestern Financial
Saskatchewan: SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance)
If you’re looking to insure a right-hand drive (RHD) or JDM vehicle in Saskatchewan, SGI is the go-to provider. As the province’s primary auto insurer, SGI understands the unique considerations around RHD imports and offers clear guidelines for registration and coverage.
Whether you’re bringing in a turbocharged Skyline, a rugged Pajero, or a fun kei car, SGI has systems in place to help you get on the road legally and confidently.
Services Offered:
Comprehensive Coverage: SGI offers standard liability, collision, and optional comprehensive insurance tailored for imported vehicles.
RHD-Friendly Support: SGI’s guide for right-hand drive vehicles outlines everything you need to know before hitting the road.
Contact Information:
Multiple branches across Saskatchewan
1-844-TLK-2SGI (1-844-855-2744)
Manitoba: Western Financial Group – Winnipeg (St. James) – Ask for JesPreet
If you're importing a JDM vehicle into Manitoba and need someone who truly gets it, JesPreet at Western Financial Group’s St. James location is your go-to. Known in the Winnipeg JDM scene for her helpful attitude and understanding of RHD vehicles, JesPreet will walk you through the insurance process step by step—no blank stares or confusion here.
Whether you're insuring your daily JDM driver or a collector-grade classic, she’ll help you get the right coverage, answer questions clearly, and work with the paperwork you’ve received through JDM Rush Imports.
Contact:
1027 St James St, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0K6
(204) 9492605
Ontario: Mitch Insurance Brokers (Toronto)
Looking for JDM or Right-Hand Drive (RHD) insurance in Ontario? Mitch Insurance Brokers has built a reputation for exactly that. With deep experience helping JDM owners get covered—whether it’s a sporty Nissan Skyline, a rugged Land Cruiser, or a quirky kei car—Mitch makes the process clear, simple, and affordable.
Their team understands the nuances of RHD and imported vehicles and works with carriers that can provide the right coverage. Whether you're looking for daily driver protection or agreed-value coverage for a collector car, Mitch Insurance has your back.
Contact:
110 Yonge St, Suite 403, Toronto, ON M5C 1T4
1-888-401-4697 or (289) 593-0275
From their site: “We’re on your side when it comes time to find affordable right-hand drive (RHD) insurance in Ontario.”
Quebec: Lareau Insurance Brokers
For over six decades, Lareau Insurance Brokers has been a cornerstone in Quebec's insurance landscape, offering personalized and comprehensive solutions to meet diverse client needs. As a 100% independent firm, Lareau collaborates with a broad spectrum of insurance companies across Canada, ensuring objective and client-focused service. Lareau Courtiers d'assurances
Services Offered:
Personalized Insurance Solutions: Lareau's brokers engage directly with clients to assess individual requirements, recommending coverage that best aligns with their unique situations. Lareau Courtiers d'assurances
Expert Guidance on RHD Vehicles: Understanding the complexities surrounding right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles in Quebec, Lareau provides informed advice on registration and insurance. It's noteworthy that, since 2009, registering new RHD vehicles in Quebec has faced restrictions. However, vehicles already registered before March 31, 2011, or those over 25 years old, may still be eligible for registration.
Contact Information:
Phone: 1-888-527-3281Lareau Courtiers d'assurances+2uniba-partners.com+2Lareau Courtiers d'assurances+2
Website: www.lareau.ca
Quebec Locations: Lareau operates multiple offices across Quebec, including Napierville, Gatineau, and Montreal. Visit their website to find the branch nearest to you. Lareau Courtiers d'assurances+2uniba-partners.com+2Lareau Courtiers d'assurances+2
For detailed insights on RHD vehicle registration in Quebec, refer to their article: Registering Your New 'Right-Hand Drive' Vehicle: Impossible in Quebec!
Note: Given the evolving regulations surrounding RHD vehicles in Quebec, it's advisable to consult directly with Lareau Insurance Brokers to discuss your specific situation and obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Nova Scotia: RSA Insurance
For residents of Nova Scotia seeking insurance solutions for right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, RSA Insurance stands out as a notable provider. With a longstanding presence in Canada, RSA offers a range of insurance products, including auto coverage tailored to diverse vehicle types.
Services Offered:
Comprehensive Auto Insurance: RSA provides standard auto insurance coverages such as liability, collision, and comprehensive plans.
RHD Vehicle Coverage: While specific details on insuring RHD vehicles are limited, discussions within the automotive community suggest that RSA has experience in this niche area. forums.jdmvip.com
Contact Information:
20 Hector Gate, Suite 200, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, B3B 0K3
(902) 420-1732
Toll-Free: 1-800-565-4040
Note: Given the specialized nature of insuring RHD vehicles, it's recommended to contact RSA Insurance directly to discuss your specific needs and confirm the availability of appropriate coverage options.
New Brunswick: AVIVA Insurance
If you're a right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle owner in New Brunswick seeking specialized insurance coverage, Aviva Canada offers tailored solutions through its DriveLife collector car insurance program. This program is designed to meet the unique needs of collector and classic car enthusiasts, providing comprehensive protection for your cherished vehicle.aviva.ca+1Hagerty Classic Car Club+1
Services Offered:
Guaranteed Value Coverage: Aviva's DriveLife program offers Guaranteed Value Plus™/Agreed Value Coverage, ensuring that in the event of a covered total loss, you receive the full agreed-upon value of your vehicle without depreciation. aviva.ca
Flexible Usage: Policyholders can participate in classic car events, parades, or enjoy occasional pleasure drives across Canada and the U.S., knowing their vehicle is adequately covered. aviva.ca
Optional Add-Ons: Enhance your coverage with options like the Cherished Salvage™ endorsement, allowing you to retain the salvage with no deduction after a total loss, and the Vehicle Under Construction endorsement, which covers loss or damage during restoration or construction. aviva.ca
Contact:
1-800-387-4518
New Brunswick Locations: Aviva operates through a network of brokers across New Brunswick. Visit their website to find a broker near you.Aviva corporate website
For more detailed information on their collector car insurance offerings, refer to their dedicated page: Collector Car Insurance New Brunswick
Note: It's advisable to contact Aviva or an authorized broker directly to discuss your specific insurance needs and confirm the availability of coverage for right-hand drive vehicles.
Newfoundland & Labrador: Belairdirect Insurance
If you're in Newfoundland and Labrador and seeking insurance for your right-hand drive (RHD) vehicle, belairdirect offers a range of auto insurance solutions that may suit your needs. As a well-established insurance provider in Canada, belairdirect delivers comprehensive coverage options tailored to diverse vehicles and drivers.
Services Offered:
Comprehensive Auto Insurance: belairdirect provides standard auto insurance coverages, including liability, collision, and comprehensive plans, ensuring your vehicle is well-protected.
Digital Convenience: Manage your policy, submit claims, and access digital proof of insurance through their user-friendly mobile app, enhancing your overall insurance experience. Belairdirect
Contact:
1-888-280-8549
Newfoundland and Labrador Locations: belairdirect operates through a network of brokers across the province. Visit their website to find a broker near you.Belairdirect+1Belairdirect+1
Note: Given the specialized nature of insuring RHD vehicles, it's recommended to contact belairdirect directly to discuss your specific needs and confirm the availability of appropriate coverage options.
Still Feeling Stuck? We’re Here to Help.
If you’ve contacted an insurance provider and hit a wall, just reach out. We’ll either speak to the provider with you or connect you with a broker who understands JDM vehicles.
Conclusion
Insuring your imported JDM car in Canada doesn't have to be stressful. With the right documents, the right questions, and the right provider, you'll be cruising with confidence in no time.
We're continuously updating this guide with new insurance providers as we confirm their JDM knowledge—so check back often!
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We're here to help you enjoy every step of your JDM journey—with confidence.
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