How to Sell a Car Privately in Manitoba (2026)

Selling a car privately in Manitoba takes a few specific steps and the right documents. This guide covers exactly what you need — no jargon, no guesswork.

What Documents You Need in Manitoba

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  Bill of Sale

  Records the transaction — buyer, seller, vehicle, price, date. Both parties keep a signed copy.

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  Safety Certificate / Vehicle Inspection

  Manitoba requires a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI) for a vehicle to be registered by the new owner. The seller typically provides this, though the buyer may obtain one independently. Arrange the inspection before the sale to avoid delaying the buyer's registration.

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  Signed Vehicle Registration Certificate

  The seller signs the back of the registration. This is what authorizes the transfer at Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI).

Step-by-Step Transfer Process in Manitoba

1. 1

   Obtain a Certificate of Inspection (COI) — required for the buyer to register the vehicle.

2. 2

   Complete the bill of sale — include year/make/model, VIN, sale price, date, and both parties' full names and addresses. Print two copies; both parties keep one.

3. 3

   Sign the Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD) on the back of the registration card. The buyer needs this to transfer ownership at MPI.

4. 4

   Submit a Notice of Sale to MPI online or in person to remove your name from the registration.

5. 5

   Remove your licence plates and return them to an MPI Service Centre.

6. 6

   The buyer takes the signed TOD + bill of sale + COI to an MPI Service Centre. In Manitoba you must register and insure the vehicle before driving it — there is no fixed-day grace period for a buyer (the 7-day grace only applies when replacing a vehicle you have just disposed of).

Common Questions