Can I add applecare to my Ipad after getting it as a gift

You can buy the AppleCare Protection Plan with your new Mac, Apple Display, or Apple TV, or within one year of your product purchase. Learn more about where to buy the AppleCare Protection Plan.

Here is a snippet from an Apple support article about AppleCare:

You’ll need to register your AppleCare Protection Plan only if you purchase the plan and your covered product separately, or if you purchase your hardware from a reseller who does not automatically register the plan.

You can register your AppleCare Protection Plan here or contact Apple at the phone number included in your AppleCare Protection Plan package. To verify that your hardware is covered under the AppleCare Protection Plan, click here. The registration process can take up to 24 hours to be visible in Apple’s systems.

Your AppleCare Protection Plan and AppleCare+ coverage starts from your hardware purchase date. There are many benefits to registering your AppleCare Protection Plan as soon as you purchase it.

For example, after you register, Apple will have your hardware, AppleCare Protection Plan, and personal contact information on file. When you contact Apple for service or support, Apple can access your information right away and start addressing your issue, rather than spending time verifying your eligibility.

Here is a link to the article: http://www.apple.com/support/products/faqs.html

If you have problems getting it registered, or purchasing the plan, contact Apple Support:

http://www.apple.com/support/applecare/contact/

Cheers,

GB