American Studying in Canada for 4 years- Car Question

Hi,

I am an American currently attending McGill University. I plan to be here for another 3 years. I am trying to figure out how to get a car here. Can I keep my American insurance? My Dad does not seem to think so, but other Americans here seem to have American plates and insurance.

What are the actual laws concerning this?

Thanks.

If you retain a residence in Quebec for the whole duration (ie, stay over the summer to work, do an internship etc.), I believe you will be require to register your vehicle with the Quebec registration agency and put Quebec plates on the vehicle. I do not know if the Quebec registration agency will accept foreign insurance - you're best to check with them (Google SAAQ - I can't post links yet, apparently). If you go home to work over the summer, you can probably keep your American licence plates and insurance.

You can drive in Canada with your American insurance, but I'm pretty sure its only a temporary thing, ie. if you're actually living in Canada for more than 6 months you might have to switch over to Canadian insurance. Because you'll be living in Quebec for an extended period, you should check residency regulations as well - they tend to get really fuzzy for students.