Courses/CELPIP Vocabulary & Collocations Kit/Transportation - Driving Basics, Insurance & Car Service

#18. Transportation - Driving Basics, Insurance & Car Service

Words (Core Vocabulary)

  • driver’s licence / learner / novice / full licence
  • vehicle registration / plate / decal
  • insuranceliability, collision, comprehensive, deductible, premium
  • renewal / policy number / claim / adjuster
  • roadside assistance / tow truck
  • service / maintenance / inspection
  • oil change / tire rotation / alignment / brake service
  • winter tires / all-season / snow chains (region-dependent)
  • windshield chip / crack / repair
  • estimate / quote / parts & labour / warranty

Phrases (Own, drive, maintain)

Documents & insurance

  • I’d like to renew my registration and insurance.
  • What deductible do you recommend for collision coverage?
  • Could you add my partner as a listed driver?

Accidents & claims (non-emergency)

  • We had a minor collisionno injuries. Let’s exchange information (licence, plate, insurance).
  • I’d like to open a claimwhat’s my claim number and next steps?

Service & repairs

  • Could I book a service appointment for Friday morning?
  • Please check the brakes and alignment; there’s a vibration at highway speed.
  • Is the chip repair covered by my policy?

Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)

  • Hi, I’m renewing insurancecould you explain the difference between collision and comprehensive?
  • We exchanged info and took photos—I’ll call to open a claim tomorrow.
  • Service desk: I need an oil change and tire rotationany availability this week?

Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)

Paperwork

  • renew registration/insurance
  • update address
  • list a driver
  • verify coverage

Claims

  • file a claim
  • provide photos
  • receive a claim number
  • speak with an adjuster

Maintenance

  • book a service
  • request an estimate
  • replace brake pads
  • repair a windshield chip
  • rotate tires

Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)

  • Provinces differ on licensing steps and insurance; clerks appreciate clear questions and documents ready.
  • Winter tires and safe following distances are expected in snowy regions.
  • For minor collisions, stay calm, move to safety, and exchange info politely.

Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)

  • Renewal: I’d like to renew my registration and insurancewhat documents do you need?”
  • Claim: I’d like to file a claim—my policy number is…, no injuries involved.”
  • Service: Could I book a brake inspection for Thursday afternoon?”
Previous
Transportation - Rideshare, Taxis & Carshare
Next
Transportation - Biking & Walking Around the City