Register your out-of-province vehicle in Ontario
This page is the free Ontario guide. No sign-in. Read on.
Facts checked September 2026 · See what changed · How we check
Step-by-step guide for new Ontario residents: inspection requirements, time limit, documents needed, and a free downloadable checklist.
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Key facts at a glance
Open this section ↓↑ Close this sectionOfficial ServiceOntario page →Agency
ServiceOntario
Time limit
30 days
Inspection required
Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
Insurance
Separate private insurer
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Time limit
Open this section ↓30 days
You have 30 days from the date you became an Ontario resident to register your out-of-province vehicle. The 30 days comes from the Official MTO Driver's Handbook ("Vehicle insurance and registration"); the ServiceOntario service page does not state a day-count.
What happens if you miss the Ontario registration deadline
Deadline: 30 days.
Ontario's official page sets this deadline but does not publish a dollar penalty for missing it.
Official source: ServiceOntario →3
Vehicle inspection
Open this section ↓↑ Close this sectionSafety Standards Certificate (SSC)
RequiredObtain the SSC from a licensed Ontario motor vehicle inspection station before registering.
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Documents you'll need
Open this section ↓5
Watch out for
13% Retail Sales Tax (RST) applies to private inter-provincial purchases.Open this section ↓13% Retail Sales Tax (RST) applies to private inter-provincial purchases. If you need to drive before getting the SSC and registration, you must purchase a 10-day Special Permit ($23.50) in person at ServiceOntario.
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Your Ontario registration checklist
Open this section ↓↑ Close this sectionYOUR ONTARIO REGISTRATION CHECKLIST Step-by-step for Ontario
Follow these steps in order. Download the PDF to keep an offline copy.
Watch out for
13% Retail Sales Tax (RST) applies to private inter-provincial purchases. If you need to drive before getting the SSC and registration, you must purchase a 10-day Special Permit ($23.50) in person at ServiceOntario.
Step 1: Check your deadline
Step 2: Gather your documents
Step 3: Vehicle inspection
Step 4: Register your vehicle
General information only, not legal or regulatory advice.
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Frequently asked questions
Open this section ↓How long do I have to register my out-of-province vehicle in Ontario?
You have 30 days from the date you became an Ontario resident to register your out-of-province vehicle. The 30 days comes from the Official MTO Driver's Handbook ("Vehicle insurance and registration"); the ServiceOntario service page does not state a day-count.
What inspection is required in Ontario?
Ontario requires a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC). Obtain the SSC from a licensed Ontario motor vehicle inspection station before registering.
Where do I register in Ontario?
Register through ServiceOntario. Official ServiceOntario page →
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Related guides
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Facts checked September 2026
Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide is for general information only. Full disclaimer
Informational guide only. Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide explains the typical process and is not legal advice. Requirements can change. Verify current rules with the relevant government authority or a qualified professional before you act.