When Does Vehicle Registration in Ontario Expire?
Vehicle registrations in Ontario expire on the owner's birthday for most passenger vehicles. The current registration system utilizes a birthday-based expiry schedule, with automatic renewal beginning 90 days before the expiry date for eligible vehicles as of July 1, 2024.
This system applies to:
- Passenger vehicles
- Light-duty vehicles under 3,000 kg
- Motorcycles
- Mopeds
Automatic Renewal Process
As of July 1, 2024, Ontario introduced automatic licence plate renewals for eligible vehicles. The automatic renewal occurs 90 days before the expiry date if the following conditions are met:
- Valid insurance coverage is maintained
- No outstanding fines or tolls exist
- Vehicle registration is in good standing
Vehicles that do not qualify for automatic renewal require manual renewal through the Ontario licence plate renewal service.
Vehicle Registration Requirements
The Ontario vehicle permit, commonly referred to as the ownership document, serves as proof of current registration. As of March 2022, physical licence plate stickers are no longer required for most passenger vehicles, though maintaining valid registration remains mandatory under the Highway Traffic Act.
Vehicle owners can verify their exact expiry date by:
- Using the licence plate expiry checker online tool
- Checking their current vehicle permit document
- Contacting any ServiceOntario location
ServiceOntario Locations
To locate a ServiceOntario location in your area, use the official ServiceOntario location finder provided by the Government of Ontario.
How Do I Get a Reminder for Vehicle Registration Renewal in Ontario?
The Government of Ontario provides digital renewal reminders through ServiceOntario to assist vehicle owners with timely registration renewals. This electronic system replaced previous mail-out notifications for most Ontarians.
ServiceOntario Digital Renewal Reminders
Ontarians can register for electronic renewal reminders through the official ServiceOntario portal. The reminder system provides:
- First Reminder: Email, text message, or phone call 60 days before expiry date
- Second Reminder: Email, text message, or phone call 30 days before expiry date
- Coverage: Vehicle registration, driver's licence, health card, and Ontario Photo Card renewals
To enroll in the digital reminder system:
- Visit the ServiceOntario renewal reminders portal
- Complete the registration form with required personal information
- Select preferred notification methods (email, text, or phone)
- Choose which services require reminders
- Provide current contact information
- Confirm enrollment
Automatic Renewal Notifications
For vehicles eligible for automatic renewal, the provincial government sends digital notifications about the renewal status. Vehicle owners can ensure they receive these notifications by maintaining current contact information with ServiceOntario and enrolling in the digital reminder system.
Special Circumstances
Certain vehicle categories may continue to receive traditional mail notifications:
- Commercial Vehicles: Heavy commercial vehicles over 3,000 kg
- Vintage Vehicles: Antique or classic vehicle plates
- Special Permits: Vehicles requiring special permits or documentation
What Is the Fine for Expired Registration in Ontario?
Operating a motor vehicle with expired registration in Ontario constitutes a violation under the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, and carries significant financial penalties under Schedule 43 of the Provincial Offences Act.
Penalty Structure Under Provincial Legislation
The penalty for operating a motor vehicle with expired registration is governed by Section 7(1)(a) of the Highway Traffic Act. Current penalty amounts as established by the Ontario Court of Justice include:
- Standard Vehicles: $125.00 for driving with no currently validated permit
- Commercial Motor Vehicles: $400.00 for driving with no currently validated permit
- Additional Violations: Related offences range from $85.00 to $310.00
Enforcement Authority
Law enforcement officers throughout Ontario possess authority to:
- Issue Provincial Offences Act tickets for expired registration
- Require production of current vehicle permit during traffic stops
- Verify registration status through the Ministry of Transportation database
- Impound vehicles under specific circumstances outlined in the Highway Traffic Act
Additional Consequences
Beyond monetary penalties, operating with expired registration may result in:
- Insurance Implications: Potential coverage issues with automobile insurance providers
- Vehicle Impoundment: Possible under Section 82 of the Highway Traffic Act
- Administrative Penalties: Additional fees for late renewal processing
- Driving Record Impact: Provincial offence convictions become part of the driver abstract
Legal Framework References
The regulatory framework governing vehicle registration penalties includes:
- Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8: Primary legislation governing vehicle registration requirements
- Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002, S.O. 2002, c. 30: Administrative provisions for vehicle transactions
- Provincial Offences Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P.33: Penalty structure and enforcement procedures
Outstanding Fine Restrictions
Ontario residents with outstanding fines face renewal restrictions:
- Online renewal services become unavailable until fines are resolved
- ServiceOntario locations cannot process renewals with outstanding obligations
The complete schedule of set fines is available through the Ontario Court of Justice Provincial Offences reference materials.