Can You Drive a Car From Another Province in Ontario?
Yes, you can drive a car from another province in Ontario under specific circumstances and in accordance with provincial motor vehicle legislation. The ability to operate an out-of-province vehicle in Ontario depends on your residency status, the duration of your stay, and compliance with the Highway Traffic Act and related regulations.
Temporary Visitors and Non-Residents
Temporary visitors to Ontario can legally operate vehicles registered in other Canadian provinces or territories, provided they meet specific requirements established under provincial motor vehicle legislation:
- Valid vehicle registration from their home province or territory
- Current insurance coverage that is valid in Ontario
- Valid driver's licence from their jurisdiction of residence
- For visitors staying less than 3 months: A valid driver's licence from their own province, state or country
- For visitors staying more than 3 months: An International Driver's Permit (IDP) from their home country, accompanied by their valid driver's licence
Visitors are not required to register their vehicle in Ontario during temporary stays, as outlined in the provincial vehicle registration requirements. However, all visitors must carry proper insurance coverage for the vehicle and an original (or exact) copy of the vehicle ownership permit while driving in Ontario.
In circumstances where temporary registration is necessary, visitors may be eligible for a Special Permit, which allows driving an unregistered vehicle in Ontario for 10 calendar days. This permit is available for newly purchased passenger vehicles intended for registration in another jurisdiction or for vehicles being transported through Ontario for business purposes.
New Ontario Residents
Individuals who become permanent residents of Ontario face different obligations under the Highway Traffic Act and Ministry of Transportation regulations. New residents must:
- Register their out-of-province vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency
- Obtain Ontario vehicle insurance that meets provincial requirements
- Complete required vehicle inspections, including a safety standards certificate for out-of-province vehicles
- Exchange their driver's licence for an Ontario driver's licence within 60 days of becoming a resident
The 30-day grace period allows new residents sufficient time to complete the transition process while maintaining legal driving privileges during the adjustment period. To register an out-of-province vehicle, new residents must visit a ServiceOntario centre and provide proof of identity, insurance, vehicle permit, or ownership from where they used to live, and any required safety certificates.
Additional requirements may apply for commercial vehicles, including those exceeding 4,500 kilograms registered gross weight, which may require emissions testing and structural safety inspections depending on the vehicle's status and age.