Guide to OPCF 17: Reinstatement of Coverage

Written by: R.E. Hawley
Insurance Writer
Reviewed by: Reza Aziz
Licensed Home & Auto Advisor
Edited by: Jessica Barrett
Content Marketing Manager
Updated
August 16, 2026
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Key Takeaways
  • OPCF 17 is used to reinstate your full auto insurance coverage after it’s been suspended by OPCF 16.
  • You must reinstate coverage with OPCF 17 before operating your insured vehicle for any reason.
  • OPCF 17 will raise your auto insurance premium because it adds back key coverage that was temporarily suspended.
  • After your reinstate coverage, you can’t file a claim for damage that occurred when your coverage was suspended.

What is OPCF 17?

OPCF 17 is the Ontario Policy Change Form used to formally reinstate all auto insurance coverage after it’s been suspended temporarily using OPCF 16 (“Suspension of Coverage”). 

You must use OPCF 17 to reinstate your full policy before driving your stored vehicle again. If you drive your vehicle at all, even for a short distance, before submitting OPCF 17, you could face serious legal and financial penalties for operating a motor vehicle without the mandatory insurance required by Ontario law. 

You can download OPCF 17 from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) website.

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How does OPCF 17 work?

OPCF 17 reinstates all parts of your Ontario Automobile Policy (OAP 1) that were suspended under OPCF 16, including: 

You may be eligible for a premium refund when reinstating your coverage, if you did not receive one previously. You will also be responsible for paying the premium listed on the change form in order to activate your coverage going forward. 

What does OPCF 17 not cover?

OPCF 17 does not cover any accidents or claims that occurred during the period when OPCF 16 was active on your policy. Coverage reinstated by OPCF 17, including liability and collision coverage, can only be used for incidents occurring after OPCF 17 was submitted and your policy was declared active. 

How does OPCF 17 affect car insurance premiums?

OPCF 17 will raise your car insurance premiums by reinstating the majority of your policy, other than comprehensive coverage, which remains active under OPCF 16. You may want to compare auto insurance quotes with the help of a broker when reinstating coverage using OPCF 17. 

Who needs OPCF 17?

Anyone who has suspended their Ontario car insurance temporarily using OPCF 16 needs OPCF 17 to reinstate their coverage before driving. Failing to reinstate coverage could lead to penalties under Ontario law.

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FAQ: OPCF 17

This article is for general information only and is not insurance or legal advice. Examples and any sample quotes or rate ranges are illustrative and do not constitute an offer or guarantee of coverage, price, or eligibility. Actual coverage, discounts, and premiums depend on your individual circumstances and the insurer provider; if there is any discrepancy, your policy and insurer documentation govern. For advice about your situation, speak with one of our licensed insurance professionals.