How to get temporary licence plates
4 minute read Published on Oct 19, 2024 by BrokerLink Communications
Wondering about how to get a temporary licence plate in Ontario? Then you’re in the right place. From how much a custom licence plate is to what to do with old licence plates, BrokerLink can answer all of your licence plate-related queries. Continue reading to learn more about the process of obtaining a temporary licence plate, sticker, and permit in Ontario.
Temporary licence plates in Ontario
Temporary licence plates, along with temporary driving permits, usually apply to newly purchased vehicles. The purpose of a temporary licence plate is to allow the driver to drive their new vehicle to an auto body shop or a garage, usually to obtain a safety standards certificate.
However, they can also be used to drive to other places in the short term. In most cases, drivers will need to obtain a temporary permit when they buy a car from a private seller, not from a dealership. This is because when you buy a car from a car dealership, safety is usually automatically provided.
However, when a car is sold by a private seller in Ontario, it is far more likely to be sold as-is. A vehicle is considered to be sold as-is if it does not have a safety standards certificate. If you buy an as-is car, it means the car may not be road-worthy or may be unfit to drive at the current moment. Thankfully, it’s possible to get an as-is vehicle on the road if you obtain a temporary plate and sticker. Here is how to do that:
Step 1: Fill out the bill of sale portion
The first step to take is to fill out the bill of sale portion of the Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). The seller will provide this information package to you. When filling out the bill of sale portion, you will be asked to provide information like your contact information, the seller’s contact information, the date of the sale, and the purchase price of the vehicle. Learn more about the difference between title and vehicle registration by contacting BrokerLink.
Step 2: Contact your insurance company
Step number two is to contact your car insurance company. Now is the time to let them know you have purchased a new vehicle and provide them with your driver's licence number. You must purchase insurance coverage for this new vehicle, and all mandatory coverage requirements, such as third-party liability car insurance, must be met. Please note that mandatory coverage in Ontario includes the following:
- Accident benefits coverage
- Liability car insurance
- Uninsured automobile insurance
- Direct compensation - property damage coverage
Your policy may also include the following types of optional auto insurance coverage:
Once insurance has been purchased, your insurer will send you a copy of your liability slip, which will serve as proof of insurance. You will need this for the next step.
Step 3: Visit a ServiceOntario centre near you to obtain a temporary plate and sticker
The third step is to locate and visit a ServiceOntario centre near you. You will need to visit a ServiceOntario centre to obtain a temporary licence plate and permit. Before going to ServiceOntario, we recommend considering your licence plate options. If you currently have licence plates that are not affixed to a car, you can choose to use that plate to obtain a temporary permit for your new car.
However, you also have the option of purchasing brand-new licence plates. If you decide to purchase a new plate, you will also be given a temporary licence plate sticker, which is valid for ten days after purchase. This temporary licence plate sticker must be attached to the upper right-hand corner of your plate.
Please note that buying new licence plates costs $59. For more information on renewing your licence in Ontario or how much car insurance costs per month in Ontario, contact BrokerLink.
Step 4: Certify your vehicle
By obtaining a temporary plate, you have bought yourself some time. However, the next step you should take is to have a licensed mechanic inspect your car. From there, they can ensure it is safe to drive or perform any necessary repairs to get it into road-worthy shape.
They will then issue a certificate of safety, which allows you to put a permanent placate and sticker on your vehicle. It is worth noting that if you are unable to have your vehicle certified within the initial 10-day window, you can request an extension for an additional 10 days. However, after the additional ten days are up, you will need to affix a permanent licence plate to your vehicle. Along with this, you will need to make sure that you have a valid car insurance plan.
For information on how to get a pink slip for your car or how to purchase multiple auto insurance policies, get in touch with BrokerLink today.
Contact BrokerLink today!
If you have further questions about the process of obtaining a temporary licence plate in Ontario, contact BrokerLink. We can explain the purpose of temporary plates, how long they last, and how they can protect you until your car is safety certified.
As an auto insurance brokerage, we can also help you find a quality car insurance policy in Toronto, answer questions about how to file car insurance claims if you are involved in an accident, and even offer expert safe driving tips to help you stay safe on the road. Get in touch today to get started and request a free car insurance quote.
Get an auto insurance quote 1-866-724-2372
Temporary licence plates FAQs
Is there a limit to the number of temporary licence plate stickers a driver can obtain?
Yes. Drivers in Ontario can only obtain two temporary licence plate stickers per vehicle within a one-year period.
Can temporary licence plates be renewed online in Ontario?
No. Temporary licence plates cannot be renewed online. They can only be renewed by visiting a ServiceOntario centre near you.
Can I get a temporary licence plate for commercial vehicles in Ontario?
No. Temporary permits can not be issued to vehicles used for commercial use that are over 5000 kg.
Do I need to remove my current plates when I have a temporary one on my car?
No. Do not remove your current plates if you have them, unless you purchased a used vehicle that does not have a plate on it at the time of purchase. A special permit may be administered so you can move the vehicle, should it not have a registration.
If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.