If you’ve lost your car ownership documents (also called a vehicle permit) in Ontario, you need to know what to do to get a replacement. The vehicle permit is a key piece of paperwork that shows ownership, and you’ll need one for selling your car, insurance claims, or if you’re pulled over by law enforcement. To replace lost car ownership in Ontario, here’s a step by step guide to help you.
How to Replace Lost Car Ownership
- Gather Required Documents: When you lost your vehicle permit, you need to get identification, such as your Ontario driver’s license, and proof of valid insurance. Additionally, you can also find out your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) — this can often be found on your insurance card or on your car.
- Visit a ServiceOntario Centre: In person, ServiceOntario centers handle the replacement permits. This process cannot be completed online. It is necessary to visit in person to add the necessary documentation and apply for a new vehicle permit. There are ServiceOntario locations scattered throughout the province so find one closest to you to minimize travel time.
- Complete the Application Form: In order to get a replacement permit at the ServiceOntario center you will have to fill out an application form. Fill out all the details such as your name, VIN and car information right to avoid delays.
- Pay the Replacement Fee: A fee of $32 applies to replacing a lost, stolen or damaged permit. The fee for this is to reissue your car’s ownership document and payment methods usually are by credit card or debit (cash may not be accepted at all locations).
- Receive Your New Ownership Document: Once these steps are done, the center will process your application. The replacement document may be delivered to the ServiceOntario branch you visit, or mailed to your address in a few days, depending on the branch.
Importance of Having a Vehicle Permit
The vehicle permit is not only a document of ownership but also has a major role in insurance matters. For instance, in case of an accident of your car, the insurance claim process is done according to the details of the permit holder. So, the first thing is that you have to have accurate and updated ownership documents.
If Your Car is Stolen, What Do You Do?
If your car ownership documents were stolen, and not misplaced, it’s advised to file a police report. Recording the theft gives it one more layer of security and prevents being used (or even the potential for someone to misuse or engage in fraudulent activity on your vehicle.)
Safe and Secure Storing of Your Permit
It can be hard to prevent loss of car ownership if the document is left in the vehicle. If you store your vehicle permit in the car, you want to be sure it is in a secure, fireproof location outside the car to reduce the risk of loss or damage. If you put it in a home filing cabinet or safe, it will be protected from theft or accidental loss.
Additional Services Available
Some services will help you if you are thinking of selling your car without an ownership document. Cash For Scrap Cars in Ontario also provides replacement services including help with lost ownership documents. It can be a great option if you’re not sure about the process, or you want extra help in keeping up with lost paperwork when you sell your vehicle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing a Permit
- Keep Copies: If you regularly lose documents, get another copy of the vehicle permit. A copy won’t be the same as the original, but it can be a good backup and reference.
- Update Your Address: If you’ve moved recently, make sure your address is updated on your vehicle permit. If this isn’t done, document processing or mail delivery could be delayed.
- Don’t Delay: If you lose your permit, do what you can to get it back as soon as possible. Selling your car without the ownership document makes the transfer of ownership difficult, and driving without one will get you into trouble.
Final Thoughts
Getting a new car ownership document in Ontario is easy, but you have to visit the office and pay a fee. When you stay organized and keep this document safe, you won’t have to worry about replacing it and will always be ready for when you need to show proof of ownership.