How to register your car

After purchasing your first car, there are a few things you have to do before hitting the road. First, you need the right car insurance (we can help with that). Then, you have to register your car and get licence plates. How do you register a vehicle? Where do you go? Can you do it online? The answer varies depending on where you live.

That’s why we have created this guide to help you find out where to go and how much you can expect to pay to register your vehicle in each province. Read on to learn how to obtain a vehicle registration certificate in Canada.

Overview of vehicle registration in Canada

Registering your car means registering your new or used vehicle with the government so it can be driven legally. In Canada, getting a vehicle registration certificate is mandatory. If you were to get pulled over and the police ask for your licence and registration, this is what you have to show them.

When you register a vehicle for the first time, you’ll receive a licence plate, licence plate stickers and proof of registration to keep in your car. The alternative is to keep a photocopy in your car and the original vehicle permit in your wallet with your registration. You have to renew your vehicle registration regularly. Depending on the province, registration renewal is every one to two years.

What you need to register a vehicle in Canada

To register a vehicle in Canada, you’ll need the following:

• Driver’s licence
• Proof of purchase of the vehicle (e.g. a receipt)
• If the vehicle is used, a transfer of ownership form
• Proof of valid insurance
• Safety standards certificate

Depending on your province, you may need additional information. Check your local government website before heading to the registration office. Below, we break down where to go and the costs of registering your vehicle in each province:

Ontario

Where to register: Service Ontario

Cost of registration:

• Vehicle permit: $32.00
• Licence plate: $59.00

Alberta

Where to register: Service Alberta registry agent

Cost of registration:

• One year: $93.00
• Two years: $173.00

Nova Scotia

Where to register: Access Nova Scotia

Cost of registration:

• Vehicle permit: $143.30-$276.50, depending on the size of the vehicle
• Registration certificate: $13.20

New Brunswick

Where to register: Service New Brunswick

Cost of registration: $61.00 - $189.00, depending on the size of the vehicle

Newfoundland

Where to register: Service Newfoundland

Cost of registration: $180.00 or $99.00 for seniors

Prince Edward Island

Where to register: PEI Government Service Centre

Cost of registration: $100.00

British Columbia

Where to register: ICBC

Cost of registration: Price varies. Talk to an ICBC agent for more information.

Manitoba

Where to register: MPI Service Centre

Cost of registration: Varies depending on the vehicle. Contact an MPI Service centre for more information.

Saskatchewan

Where to register: SGI agents

Cost of registration: Price varies depending on the vehicle. Contact your local license issuer for more information.

Quebec

Where to register: SAAQ Service Outlet

Cost of registration: Varies depending on the vehicle.

If you are moving to a different province, you usually have some time to register your vehicle. Most provinces have a grace period of three months. However, you should check the website of the province you’re moving to to learn more about the registration process.

Are the vehicle title and registration the same thing?

No, the vehicle title is not the same as your vehicle registration. There is a clear difference between title and registration. Let us explain.

The vehicle title is a document showing the vehicle’s registered owner. It proves who the legal owner of the vehicle is. Additionally, it provides important details about the passenger vehicle, including the date of vehicle identification number (VIN), date of sale, weight class, make, model, and sometimes mileage. Before heading to the registry agent office, you need to ensure the vehicle title is in your name before you pay any registration fees.

Vehicle registration is a little different. The process entails paying registration fees at a registry agent office to receive a licence plate and registration number to legally drive on public roads. The registration number is on your licence plate and allows the authorities and other drivers to identify your car. You do need a registration certificate to get your licence plates. Showing the vehicle title is also part of the registration process.

What is a vehicle permit?

Your vehicle permit proves your vehicle is registered. It shows you can be driven legally and who owns the vehicle. Keep it in your car in case you get pulled over or have to show your registration for any reason. The original can stay in your wallet, and a copy should remain in your car in case of theft. You have to show the police the original if you are pulled over.

How do I renew my vehicle registration?

Renewing your vehicle registration isn’t too difficult. In most provinces, you can renew your registration online. This is usually done every one to two years, depending on where you live. Keep in mind that as a vehicle owner, you have to pay any outstanding fines before you renew your registration.

Looking for the right insurance for your car? BrokerLink can help.

If you live in a big city in Ontario, you likely need Toronto car insurance or Ottawa car insurance. After all, it’s illegal to drive without insurance. Let’s face it — finding an insurance policy on your own isn’t easy. That’s why having an insurance broker is so beneficial. Having someone shop around for you is a great way to save on car insurance.

Before you register a vehicle, you need car insurance. That’s a lot to think about. Let BrokerLink help you find insurance to register your vehicle without worry. We will take the time to get to know you and find the right policy for you. We will also look for ways to give you lower car insurance premiums. From there, you can drive away with peace of mind, knowing you are protected.

Get an auto insurance quote 1-866-724-2372

How to register your car FAQs

Do I have to pay a fee to obtain a vehicle registration certificate?

Yes, you have to pay a fee to register your car. The registration fees vary between provinces, but you should expect to pay at least $100. You will also have to renew your registration regularly. This ranges from one to two years, depending on the province.

What is a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)?

VIN stands for a vehicle identification number. Consider it a serial number, as every vehicle has a unique VIN. It identifies the vehicle manufacturer, the make, model, trim, and year the vehicle was manufactured. It can be used to find the history of a vehicle, including details about maintenance and accidents.

Do I receive any documents as proof of my car registration?

Yes, you will receive a vehicle registration certificate to keep in your car.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.