Register Your Car in Ontario: A Complete Guide

Moving to Ontario comes with a few important tasks, including switching your driver’s licence and licence plates. This guide explains how to register a vehicle in Ontario and outlines the key steps to help you get it done smoothly. The post Register Your Car in Ontario: A Complete Guide appeared first on isure.

To register an out-of-province vehicle in Ontario, you’ll need to gather your identification, proof of insurance, vehicle ownership and purchase documents, and any required safety documentation. You then register the vehicle at a ServiceOntario centre and pay the applicable registration fees and taxes. The exact requirements vary depending on whether the vehicle is coming from another Canadian province or from outside Canada.

Steps to Registering Your Car

Whether you’re moving from out of province or simply getting your paperwork in order, properly registering your vehicle in Ontario is essential for legal ownership and operation. By registering your vehicle, you confirm your ownership with Ontario and receive the necessary documents and license plates to drive.

If your car is registered outside Ontario, you can register it at a ServiceOntario centre. Compared with cars registered in the province, registering an out-of-province vehicle requires a few additional steps. These steps differ depending on where you are bringing the vehicle from.

1. Gather Required Documents

Collect the following documents before visiting ServiceOntario:

- Driver’s Licence: Your valid Ontario driver’s licence.
- Proof of Insurance: An insurance “pink slip” from an Ontario-licensed provider.
- Vehicle Permit: The original permit from the seller, with the transfer section completed.
- Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP): Required for private sales to show the car’s history and value.
- Bill of Sale: Proof of the purchase, which can be on the UVIP.
- Safety Standards Certificate (SSC): A certificate for the most used vehicles proving they meet Ontario safety regulations.
- Plate Portion of the Permit: If you are transferring your existing license plates.

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2. Visit a ServiceOntario location

Once you have gathered the required documents, you’ll need to visit a ServiceOntario location in person to register your vehicle. A representative will review your documents and help you complete the registration application. Bring all required paperwork to avoid delays or another trip.

3. Complete the Registration

At ServiceOntario, you’ll submit your documents, complete the registration application, and pay any applicable registration, licensing, and sales tax fees. Once the transaction is complete, you’ll receive your Ontario vehicle permit and licence plates if you need new ones. If you’re transferring an existing Ontario plate, you’ll need to bring the appropriate plate portion of your permit.

If you’re registering a used vehicle after purchasing it privately, you must complete the registration within the required timeframe. Depending on the vehicle, you may also need an emissions test before registration. If you purchase your vehicle from a dealership, the dealer may be able to handle the registration and plating process on your behalf.

When Registering An Out-of-Province Vehicle in Ontario:

When registering an out-of-province vehicle, you’ll need to provide proof of your identity, such as your Ontario driver’s licence or Registrant Identification Number (RIN), along with the vehicle’s ownership and purchase documents. If you’re registering a passenger vehicle, motorhome, or motorcycle, you’ll also need a complete Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). Be sure to bring proof of purchase, the vehicle permit, and the plate portion of the permit. If you have an Ontario licence plate you’d like to attach to the vehicle, bring that with you as well.

After completing the registration process and paying any applicable fees and taxes, you’ll receive your Ontario vehicle permit and licence plates, if required. Once registered and properly insured, your vehicle will be ready to be driven legally in Ontario.

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Registering a Leased Vehicle in Ontario

If you’re bringing a leased vehicle into Ontario, you’ll need to provide proof of the lease as part of the registration process. This can include a copy of the lease agreement or invoice, a letter from the leasing company that includes the RIN and VIN, or a letter authorizing the vehicle to be registered in Ontario.

Register Your Car in Ontario From Outside of Canada

If you’re importing a vehicle into Ontario from outside Canada, you’ll need to meet both the general Ontario registration requirements and the federal requirements for importing a vehicle. This includes completing the appropriate customs documentation, including the Vehicle Import Form 1, and declaring the vehicle as part of your imported goods. When registering the vehicle for the first time in Ontario, you’ll also need to provide proof of identity, including your name, date of birth, and signature, using your driver’s licence number or RIN.

Vehicle Registration Costs in Ontario

While Ontario eliminated licence plate sticker renewal fees, standard fees still apply when registering an out-of-province vehicle for the first time.

Standard Permit & Plate Fees

Vehicle Permit: $32
Licence Plates (with permit): $59
Licence Plate Sticker Renewal Fee: $0

Retail Sales Tax (RST)

When you purchase a used vehicle privately, you may need to pay Ontario retail sales tax (RST) when registering it. The tax is generally calculated based on the greater of the purchase price shown on the bill of sale or the vehicle’s average wholesale value listed in the UVIP.

Additional costs may apply when bringing a vehicle into Ontario from another province, particularly if the vehicle requires an inspection or other documentation before it can be registered.

Additional fees may apply if the vehicle was purchased outside Ontario or if it requires an inspection before registration.

Renewing Your Vehicle Registration in Ontario

Once your vehicle is registered, you’ll need to keep the registration current to continue driving legally in Ontario. Registration renewal is generally straightforward, and for most passenger vehicles, there is no longer a fee for renewing the licence plate sticker.

How Often Do You Need to Renew?

Vehicle registration typically needs to be renewed every one or two years, depending on the renewal period you choose. ServiceOntario may send you a reminder when your renewal is due, but you’re still responsible for ensuring your registration remains valid.

How to Renew Your Registration

You can renew your vehicle registration online through ServiceOntario or in person at a ServiceOntario location. You’ll generally need your licence plate number, vehicle permit information, and proof of valid Ontario auto insurance to complete the renewal.

Register Your Car: Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to register my car after moving to Ontario?

If you’re a new Ontario resident, you generally have 30 days to register your vehicle in the province. You’ll also need to meet Ontario’s requirements for your driver’s licence and vehicle insurance.

Can I register an out-of-province vehicle in Ontario online?

Out-of-province vehicle registration requires you to complete the applicable registration process at a ServiceOntario centre. Gather your required identification, insurance, ownership, and purchase documents before visiting.

How much does it cost to register a vehicle in Ontario?

The current Ontario government page lists the vehicle permit fee at $32. A new licence plate with the permit is listed at $59. Other fees and taxes may apply depending on the vehicle and circumstances.

Do I need insurance to register a vehicle in Ontario?

Yes. You need proof of Ontario vehicle insurance as part of the registration process.

Do I need a safety certificate to register an out-of-province vehicle?

The requirements depend on the vehicle and type of registration. Certain vehicles require a Safety Standards Certificate, so check the current Ontario requirements.

Can I register a leased vehicle in Ontario?

Yes. Ontario requires proof of the lease for an out-of-province leased vehicle. This can include a lease agreement or invoice, a letter from the leasing company containing the RIN and VIN, or authorization from the leasing company to register the vehicle in Ontario.

Get the Right Coverage Before You Register

Registering a vehicle in Ontario may seem complicated at first, but having the right documents and understanding the requirements can make the process much easier.

Whether you’re moving to Ontario with an out-of-province vehicle, purchasing a car privately, or renewing your existing registration, taking care of the necessary paperwork ensures you can drive legally and with confidence. If you’re also looking for Ontario auto insurance, contact us at isure today!