Free guide — Ontario
Register your out-of-province vehicle in Ontario
Step-by-step guide for new Ontario residents — inspection requirements, time limit, documents needed, and a free downloadable checklist.
Key facts at a glance
Agency
ServiceOntario
Time limit
30 days
Inspection required
Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
Insurance
Separate private insurer
Time limit
30 days
You have 30 days from the date you became an Ontario resident to register your out-of-province vehicle.
Vehicle inspection
Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
RequiredObtain the SSC from a licensed Ontario motor vehicle inspection station before registering.
Documents you'll need
- Out-of-province vehicle ownership (title/registration)
- Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
- Ontario auto insurance
- Government-issued photo ID
- Bill of sale
- Form SR-LV-006 (if applicable)
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.
Your Ontario registration checklist
Your 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
You have 30 days from the date you became an Ontario resident to register your out-of-province vehicle.
Step 2 — Gather your documents
Out-of-province vehicle ownership (title/registration)
Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
Ontario auto insurance
Government-issued photo ID
Bill of sale
Form SR-LV-006 (if applicable)
Step 3 — Vehicle inspection
Safety Standards Certificate (SSC)
Obtain the SSC from a licensed Ontario motor vehicle inspection station before registering.
Step 4 — Register your vehicle
Visit ServiceOntario
ServiceOntarioGeneral information only — not legal or regulatory advice.
Frequently asked questions
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.
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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Guidepost is not a law firm. This guide is for general information only. Full disclaimer