New to Canada and BC: How to Get a Vehicle

Kia VictoriaBlogNew to Canada and BC: How to Get a Vehicle

If you’re a newcomer to Canada, it’s very likely you would like a vehicle to help you get around. BC is a big place, and you can’t necessarily rely on transit to get your absolutely everywhere. The team at Kia Victoria is here to help make the process as easy as possible. Join us as we go through the main steps you’ll need to take to make sure you can enjoy Canada from behind the wheel of your own vehicle.

Getting a Driver’s License

If you already have a valid international driver’s license, you can continue to use it for up to 90 days while driving in BC, so long as you are also carrying an International Driving Permit from your country of origin. Past this 90 day grace period, you’ll need a valid Canadian driver’s license. It may be possible for you to exchange your existing international license for a Canadian one, otherwise you will need to apply as a new driver to the BC driver’s licensing program, which will require skill and knowledge testing. Remember, it is illegal to drive in Canada without a valid license.

Documents Needed

Different dealerships have different requirements to buy, but most often you’ll be expected to provide the following documentation to make a vehicle purchase;

  • A valid driver’s license
  • Government issued ID (your Canadian driver’s license will count)
  • A credit score
  • A current pay-stub
  • Proof of auto insurance

Depending on if you will require financing, and what lender you’re dealing with, you may not need a credit score. There are also lenders who are able to do an international credit check, if you haven’t had time to build up a Canadian credit score yet. If you require assistance with a possible lack of credit history, our finance team would be happy to work with you to find a solution.

Getting Auto Insurance

To drive in Canada, it is a legal requirement that you have auto insurance, and are expected to show proof of insurance when you pick up your new vehicle. Auto insurance helps to cover damages or injury suffered in an accident. To get insured, you can contact an insurance provider, and you will need to give them your personal information, your driving history, and the details of the vehicle you will be driving. Please remember to be honest with this information to ensure you get the coverage you need.

Buying Your Vehicle

There are a few things to consider before buying a vehicle, such as whether you should lease or buy, or if you should shop new or used. Leasing is like an extended rental, while financing allows you to own your vehicle outright. New vehicles tend to be more expensive, but are in pristine condition and fully covered under warranty, while used vehicles are often far less expensive, but can be less reliable. If you’re interested in shopping used, Kia’s Certified Pre-Owned Program guarantees you a thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicle in excellent condition, backed by extended protection. Our sales and finance teams are on hand to walk you through every step of the purchasing process, and make it as stress free as possible.

Shop for Your New Vehicle with Kia Victoria in BC

We are excited to help you get behind the wheel of your first vehicle in Canada. Contact the team here at Kia Victoria and we can help you get the process started, today. When the time comes to buy your first Kia, you should make Kia Victoria in BC your destination of choice.

Learn more about financing your next Kia at Kia.ca.