Cash For Scrap Cars

How to Register a Car in Ontario?

Vehicle owners must register a car in Ontario to ensure legal compliance, and also to have the vehicle permit and license plates. Read on to learn how to make the process smooth and straightforward.

Car Registration in Ontario Documents Required

Before heading to a ServiceOntario office, gather the following documents to streamline your registration:

  • Proof of Vehicle Ownership: In the case of a new vehicle, the bill of sale is normally acceptable; for used cars, a completed Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) from the seller is required.
  • Identification: A current Ontario driver’s license or Registrant Identification Number (RIN). Businesses would use a RIN to manage vehicle registrations.
  • Insurance Proof: Proof of valid insurance from a licensed provider is required by Ontario. Without this, you will be denied registration.
  • Safety Standards Certificate (for Used Cars): This certificate is required for vehicles more than seven years old or bought privately and ensures that the vehicle meets safety requirements.
  • Vehicle Permit Transfer: Also, if you’re buying a used car, you need the original vehicle permit with the completed transfer section from the previous owner.

Vehicle Registration Steps

Step 1: Visit a ServiceOntario Center

Once you have your documents in hand, visit a ServiceOntario office. In order to reduce wait times, you may want to check if appointments are available. In some cases, online pre-check options are available for renewals and replacements.

Step 2: Registration Application Fill Out

If you’re registering a vehicle at ServiceOntario, complete the vehicle registration form, including make, model, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and odometer reading. If you have used a previously issued plate, you will need the plate portion of the permit.

Step 3: Pay the Registration Fees

The fees range according to the vehicle usage and place of registration. Here’s a general breakdown:

  • Southern Ontario: One year for $120 or two years for $240.
  • Northern Ontario: One year for $60, or two years for $120.
  • Motorcycle Registration: In Southern Ontario around $42 and $21 in Northern Ontario.

Step 4: Get Your Registration Documents & License Plates

After you’ve completed your application and paid fees, you’ll be issued a vehicle registration permit and, if you need new license plates, those plates will include a validation sticker. Make sure your registration has an attached validation sticker because it means the registration is about to expire.

For new residents or out-of-province transfers, the process is similar but also requires proof of Ontario insurance, an Ontario driver’s license, and in the case of imported vehicles, a customs clearance document. For older vehicles, or those of specific types, emission testing may be required.

Additional Considerations

  • Vehicle Safety Inspections: Used cars over seven years old need a mandatory safety inspection.
  • Cash for Scrap Cars: Cash for Scrap Cars also offers help with vehicle registration, especially for used and salvaged cars, so it is easier for people who want to dispose of old cars while dealing with all necessary paperwork.

Online and Renewal Options

Owners of registered vehicles can save themselves the trip to the office by registering renewals online, which is permitted in Ontario. You simply login to the ServiceOntario portal, enter your permit and plate numbers, and then pay. Within days, a new permit or sticker will be mailed to you. Remember that you must update your registration within six days of moving if you have a change of address.

Key Points to Remember

  • Vehicle registration is valid for one or two years and can be paid for either one or two years.
  • Then, make sure you are insured and have a valid safety inspection, if required, before you register.
  • Proof of legal registration includes keeping your vehicle registration permit in your car all the time.

With these in hand, and by following these steps, you’ll find registering your car in Ontario to be simple and easy.

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