British Columbia

No definition of "automobile".

The Motor Vehicle Act, RSBC 1996, c. 318:

The general scheme is vehicle/non-vehicle, and then vehicle is sub-divided into many categories, by use (i.e. bus, commercial vehicle, emergency vehicle, farm tractor, golf cart, implement of husbandry, industrial utility vehicle, motorcycle, off-road vehicle, school bus, station wagon, taxi, tow car, trailer) (s. 1)

A "vehicle" is a device in, on or by which a person or thing is or may be transported or drawn on a highway, but does not include a device designed to be moved by human power, a device used exclusively on stationary rails or tracks, mobile equipment or a motor assisted cycle;

"motor vehicle" is a vehicle, not run on rails, that is designed to be self propelled or propelled by electric power obtained from overhead trolley wires, but does not include mobile equipment or a motor assisted cycle;

Section 3 requires the owner of a motor vehicle or trailer to register, license and insure with ICBC before using or operating on a highway;

Section 3.1 exempts golf carts, industrial utility vehicles, and a 'prescribed class of vehicles' from section 3, if used in accordance with the conditions set out, i.e. if used or operated only, for example:


  • on a parking lot or driveway of the golf course or by or on behalf of the owner f the parking lot or driveway;
  • to cross a highway that intersects the golf course or worksite, for the purpose of travelling from one part of a golf course to another part of the same golf course; etc

However, s. 24.02.01 of the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations require third party liability insurance coverage for vehicles exempt under section 3.1 of the Motor Vehicle Act;

Insurance (Vehicle) Act, RSBC 1996, c. 231:

  • defines vehicle as a "motor vehicle or trailer";
  • "vehicle insurance" means insurance against liability … caused by a vehicle or the use or operation of a vehicle, but does not include insurance relating to a vehicle for which, or for the use or operation of which, a permit or licence is not required under the Motor Vehicle Act unless the contract of insurance provides that this Act applies, or any operation, use or loss of use of a vehicle excluded by regulation.