Online car insurance renewal coming to ICBC in 2022

Drivers in B.C. will be able to renew their ICBCcar insurance online starting in May 2022, the province announced Friday.

Drivers will also be able to get temporary operation permits,with some restrictions,once the new online model launches.

The change is a significant shift for the Crown corporation. It has never been an option for drivers in B.C. to renew their insurance online, withcustomersbeing required to see a broker in person aside froma pandemic-induced email option rushed outthis year.

ICBC announced in March that drivers would temporarily be able to renew by phone and by email to support stay-at-home efforts.

A statement from the provinceFriday said more insurance"products" are expected to become available online in time after 2022.

"We know British Columbians want more convenience when they purchase and renew their auto insurance," wroteMinister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth.

"This is another important step to makeICBCwork better for British Columbians."

The province said there is regulatory and technical work to be done over the next year before the online option can begin. Officials will need to prepare brokerages for the change and develop regulations around the licence plate decal requirement.

The statement also said "decal-related consultations are underway" with brokers, road safety partners and police to help decide the future of the decal requirement in B.C. A decision on the decal issue is expected in 2021.