Buying a car comes with a lot of paperwork, regardless of whether it's a used vehicle or brand-new off the lot. While not always required, a lot of the time, you'll need a safety standards certificate before you're able to register your vehicle with the Ministry of Transportation and get your new licence plates. So, what exactly is this safety certificate and how do you know if you need one? Hang tight and stay tuned!
What is a safety standards certificate?
A safety standards certificate is a type of official road safety document that states a vehicle meets the minimum safety requirements required to operate on Ontario roadways. That said, a safety certificate issued to a vehicle does not serve as a sort of warranty or guarantee for vehicles sold that are used, which is something to consider before buying a used car.
What does a car safety inspection checklist include?
To receive a vehicle standards certificate, professional mechanics will typically use a vehicle inspection checklist that includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Your vehicle alignment
- The tread depth of your tires
- Your turn signals and other electrical components
- All of your windows
- The window wipers
- Mirrors (side and rear-view)
- The exhaust system
- Your seatbelts work
- Horn
- Your steering mechanism
- That your brakes work
- Your accelerator
- Your vehicle's suspension
- Airbags are on and working
Remember, this is not the full car safety inspection checklist. For a completed list and to ensure your car passes your upcoming appointment, reach out to a local inspection station for more information.
When do I need a safety standards certificate?
It's important to mention that not all vehicles require a safety standard certificate to get a licence plate. So, when exactly is a safety check needed? Continue reading to discover more:
Ownership transfer
If you're transferring vehicle ownership of a used car from you to another individual who is not your spouse or common-law partner, you will need a car safety inspection.
Registering a vehicle from another province, territory, or country
Another instance where a safety standard certificate is required is if you've purchased either a new vehicle or a used vehicle from outside of Ontario and wish to register it within the province.
Registering a rebuilt vehicle
A car that has been in an accident and has a title as a rebuilt vehicle will need to pass a vehicle safety standards certificate before it can operate once again on the road. Even with extensive repairs, regular safety inspections should be considered.
Upgrading an unfit vehicle’s status from "unfit" to "fit"
If you're purchasing a used vehicle or have a vehicle that is deemed unfit by Ontario safety standards or recently had a safety inspection and failed, you'll need to rebook a safety inspection and pass before you're able to operate the vehicle on an Ontario roadway.
Who doesn't need a safety standards certificate?
As we mentioned above, not all cars need a vehicle safety certificate. The first is new vehicles. If you purchase a new car straight off the lot, you will not need to book a vehicle safety inspection with a mechanic before registering it and getting your new licence plates. We should also mention that a motorized snow vehicle, motor-assisted bicycle, and other types of off-road vehicle will not require this type of inspection before being registered.
Another instance where a safety certificate is not required is when you are transferring your ownership of a vehicle to your spouse or a direct family member. Lastly, if you are buying a car from a registered dealer, regardless of whether it is used or brand-new, a safety inspection will already have been performed, so you can go ahead and skip this extra expense before getting your vehicle on the road.
Take the proactive step to ensure your vehicle's safety and stay compliant with Ontario regulations. Schedule your car safety inspection today to enjoy peace of mind on the road, knowing your vehicle meets all necessary safety standards and requirements. Don't wait—prioritize your car's safety and book your inspection now!
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Where can I get a safety standards certificate?
So, where exactly can you get a safety standards certificate in Ontario? Here's where you can go ahead and book your appointment:
Motor vehicle inspection station
A motor vehicle inspection station is the only place where you can legally get an inspection performed. That said, there are numerous locations across Ontario where this is possible. Generally speaking, the majority of mechanic shops in the province will offer this type of inspection as a service. However, you will need to make sure that the location has been certified by the Ministry of Transportation in Ontario, which is usually designated with a sign that says they are.
Do I need a safety inspection to sell a car in Ontario as is?
If you are selling your vehicle "as is" to a scrap yard, you will not need a safety inspection certificate. This type of licenced motor vehicle inspection is only needed if you are selling the vehicle to another individual who intends to use it or if the car is being transferred to someone else to ensure that the vehicle meets the minimum safety requirements needed to operate a motor vehicle on an Ontario public road.
How much does a vehicle safety inspection cost in Ontario?
Unfortunately, a vehicle safety standards certificate in Ontario is not free. You'll need to pay between $50 and $150 for this safety certificate. Keep in mind that the price can vary between service providers. You may be able to call ahead and get a quote beforehand to compare costs.
How long is a vehicle safety inspection good for in Ontario?
A vehicle safety standards certificate is valid in Ontario for 36 days from the day that it is issued, during which you will need to register your vehicle with the Ministry of Transportation. If you fail to register your car during this period, you will need to pay to have your vehicle inspected once again.
Protect your high-quality car insurance
Operating a vehicle that has passed the minimum safety standards listed within the safety certificate and brushing up on your safe driving tips is not enough. To ensure that you are fully protected while behind the wheel, having the right car insurance in place can make a world of difference. Here are some of the types of auto insurance BrokerLink can help you secure:
Contact BrokerLink today
Looking to save on car insurance? Aren't sure when's the best time to buy a car? BrokerLink has got you covered. With years of experience in the insurance industry, BrokerLink is a trusted name amongst Canadians when it comes to finding affordable policies that never sacrifice coverage.
With locations across the country, there may be a BrokerLink location in your neighbourhood. To work with a broker from our team in person, come on into one of our offices any time of the week! You can also reach us over the phone or use our online quote tool for free when you need a competitive insurance quote while you're on the go!
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FAQs: Is a safety inspection required for my car in Ontario?
How can I prepare for an upcoming safety inspection?
To prepare and ensure that your vehicle passes a safety standards certificate, we recommend conducting some maintenance on your car. For example, changing the brakes, ensuring your tires have the right tread depth and are filled with enough air, looking for exhaust leaks, and paying attention to your lights and steering wheel will all give you a better chance at passing a car safety inspection the first time.
Do commercial vehicles need a safety inspection in Ontario?
Yes, all vehicles that are being used for commercial purposes must pass specific safety standards in order to operate on Ontario roads. Vehicles that require an annual safety inspection in Ontario include trailers, trucks, and converter dollies, all with a combined weight of 4,500 kilograms. Other vehicles include tow trucks, concrete pumps, and cranes. Further, a car safety inspection is also required every six months if they carry ten or more people at any given time, including buses, limousines, large passenger vans, accessible vehicles and school buses.
What happens if my car fails a car safety inspection?
If your car does not pass the safety inspection, you will receive a copy of the report to ensure that you are able to conduct the necessary repairs and have it re-inspected at a later date. Once your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards listed in the certificate, you can then go ahead and either sell or insure the vehicle.
Why do cars fail safety inspections?
If a vehicle fails a safety certificate inspection, it is likely because of deficiencies with the braking system, poor tires, faulty steering wheel, a malfunctioning exhaust system, problems with the electrical, issues with the actual structural integrity of the vehicle, or other problems that render the vehicle unsafe to drive.
Do I need to purchase insurance before or after I buy a car?
"Do I need to purchase insurance before or after I buy a car?" is a common question insurance brokers and agents often get from customers. Generally speaking, purchasing insurance before you get your new vehicle is recommended as it can give you peace of mind knowing that you're protected as soon as you drive off with it. That said, this isn't always necessary as a lot of insurance companies provide customers with a grace period which allows them to get their car covered in a certain amount of time after they have bought their new vehicle. In Ontario, the grace period is six days.
How long does a safety inspection take?
Generally speaking, you can anticipate your car safety inspection to take anywhere between 60 to 90 minutes from start to finish. This, however, can vary depending on where you take your vehicle for the inspection, those conducting the inspection, and the type of vehicle you drive.
Does the seller need to give me an inspection certificate when buying a car?
No, if you are purchasing a used car from a private seller, the owner of the vehicle is not required by law to give you proof or a safety standard certificate. While you are able to request that the owner provide you with one as a condition of selling the car, if one is not provided at the time of the sale, you will need to go ahead and book an appointment yourself.
What if my car has minor problems? Will I fail the certification?
Don't panic; minor maintenance issues typically won't lead to you failing the Ontario safety certificate. For example, a minor crack in your windshield, scratches or small dents on the exterior of your car, or other types of cosmetic problems that don't interfere with the ability of the car to operate in a safe manner are not things that you need to worry about beforehand. That said, in order to pass, we suggest you do some maintenance before your upcoming appointment. Getting a certificate will cost around $100, depending on where you go. So, to prevent you from having to go multiple times, make sure your tires, brakes, and exhaust system, along with other aspects of your vehicle, are causing any major problems.
If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.
