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Preserving the Classics: Manitoba’s Collector Vehicle Program
For automotive enthusiasts in Manitoba, a classic vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a rolling piece of history and a labor of love. Recognizing this passion, Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) offers a specialized initiative known as the Collector Vehicle Program (CVP). This program is tailor-made for owners who meticulously maintain vintage rides and drive them primarily for pleasure during the warm summer months. By joining the CVP, qualifying Manitobans can protect their prized possessions while enjoying distinct benefits structured specifically for low-use, historic vehicles.
One of the most appealing aspects of the program is its financial and aesthetic reward. Participants receive year-round insurance coverage at a reduced premium, acknowledging that these vehicles spend more time tucked away safely in garages than facing daily rush-hour traffic. Visually, the program allows owners to proudly display their vehicle’s status. Approved motorists are issued distinctive, vintage-style yellow licence plates featuring the word “Collector.” For those who want an extra touch of individuality, MPI also allows these retro plates to be personalized with unique text combinations.
To join the CVP, an owner’s vehicle must meet a strict set of eligibility guidelines to ensure it qualifies as a true collector’s item. First, the vehicle must be a passenger car, a light truck weighing 4,540 kilograms or less, or a motorcycle. Age is another crucial factor, as the vehicle must be at least 25 years old. Finally, because the program is designed for vehicles of significant historical or financial worth, owners must maintain a certified appraised value of at least $5,000 for cars and trucks, or $4,000 for motorcycles.
Beyond age and valuation, ensuring that these classic beauties are roadworthy is a top priority for public safety. Before any paperwork can be finalized, the vehicle must pass a rigorous assessment to secure a valid certificate of inspection. Once the vehicle is proven to be safe and the physical appraisal confirms its value, the owner can officially move forward with the application process.
The program was initially announced by the provincial government in July 2013 following roughly a decade of consultation with the Manitoba Association of Automobile Clubs (MAAC). It was introduced to give classic vehicle owners a permanent, year-round insurance package with unique vintage-style yellow licence plates, eliminating the old need to manually switch to fire/theft “layup” policies during the winter
Getting your classic on the road under the CVP is a straightforward two-step process. The first step involves gathering your approved qualification paperwork, including your official appraisal and safety inspection certificate. The second step is to bring these documents to any local Autopac agent or MPI Service Centre. There, you can finalize your specialized insurance policy, purchase your coverage, and walk out with your new retro yellow plates, ready to cruise Manitoba’s highways in style.
