What Is The Process For License Plate Renewal In Ontario?
The process for license plate renewal in Ontario involves renewing the validation sticker on your license plate before it expires. As of March 13, 2022, the Ontario government has eliminated license plate renewal fees for passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and mopeds. However, vehicle owners must renew their license plates to maintain a valid vehicle registration.
To renew your license plate, visit a ServiceOntario center or complete the process online through the ServiceOntario website. You will need to provide your vehicle registration information and proof of insurance.
Do I Need To Renew My License Plate In Ontario?
Yes, you need to renew your license plate in Ontario to maintain a valid vehicle registration. Even though license plate renewal fees have been eliminated as of March 13, 2022, vehicle owners must renew their license plates before expiration.
Failure to renew your license plate can result in fines and penalties under the Highway Traffic Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8). Driving with an expired license plate is illegal, and it can lead to additional consequences, such as vehicle impoundment and increased insurance premiums.
When Should I Renew My License Plate In Ontario?
You should renew your license plate in Ontario before it expires. The expiry date for individuals is usually your birthday. The renewal period typically starts 180 days before the license plate expires. You can check the expiration date of your license plate through the ServiceOntario website.
How Can I Renew My License Plate In Ontario?
In Ontario, you can renew your license plate through the following methods:
- Online: Visit the ServiceOntario website and complete the online renewal process. You will need:
- your license plate number
- your vehicle permit number
- your insurance company name and policy number
- your odometer reading
- to pay any defaulted fines, tolls or fees
- an emissions test if you are renewing for a heavy commercial diesel vehicle
- In-person: Visit a ServiceOntario center to renew your license plate.
Where Can I Go To Renew A License Plate In Ontario?
You can renew your license plate at any ServiceOntario center throughout the province. Over 280 ServiceOntario locations include full-service centers and privately operated ServiceOntario agencies.
To find the nearest ServiceOntario location, you can:
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Visit the ServiceOntario website and use the location finder tool.
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Call ServiceOntario at 1-800-267-8097 (toll-free within Ontario) or 416-235-2999 (GTA).
When visiting a ServiceOntario center to renew your license plate, ensure you have your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and payment (if applicable) ready to present to the customer service representative.
Can I Renew My License Plate From Ontario Online?
Yes, you can renew your license plate from Ontario online through the ServiceOntario website. Online renewal is a convenient and time-saving option that allows you to complete the process from the comfort of your home.
Follow these steps to renew your sticker online:
- your license plate number
- your vehicle permit number
- your insurance company name and policy number
- your odometer reading
- to pay any defaulted fines, tolls or fees
- an emissions test if you are renewing for a heavy commercial diesel vehicle
If I Have Outstanding Fines In Ontario, Can I Still Renew My Plate?
No, if you have outstanding fines or unpaid fees related to your vehicle or driving offences in Ontario, you may not be able to renew your license plate until these debts are settled. This includes fines for parking tickets, red light camera violations, and other traffic-related offences.
To check if you have any outstanding fines or fees, visit the ServiceOntario website and use the online fine payment tool.
Can Someone Else Renew My License Plate For Me In Ontario?
Yes, someone else can renew your license plate for you in Ontario with your signed permission and the renewal notice.
What Is The Penalty In Ontario For Driving With An Expired License Plate?
Under the Highway Traffic Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. H. 8), driving with an expired license plate in Ontario can result in fines ranging from $60 to $1,000.
What Does "License Plate Sticker" Mean In Ontario?
In Ontario, a "license plate sticker" previously referred to the validation sticker affixed to a vehicle's license plate, indicating that the vehicle was registered correctly and the necessary fees had been paid to the Ministry of Transportation. However, as of March 13, 2022, Ontario has eliminated the requirement for physical license plate stickers and associated fees.
Is A License Plate Sticker Required In Ontario?
No, as of March 13, 2022, a physical license plate sticker is no longer required in Ontario. The province has eliminated the need for vehicle owners to display a validation sticker on their license plates.
What Documentation Is Needed To Renew A License Plate In Ontario?
To renew your license plate in Ontario, you will need to provide the following information:
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License plate number.
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Vehicle permit number: You can find your vehicle permit number on your vehicle registration document.
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Insurance information: Provide your insurance company name and policy number as proof of valid automobile insurance, which is required by the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. C.25).
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Odometer reading.
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Payment for outstanding fines, tolls, or fees.
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Renewal fees (if applicable): As of March 13, 2022, Ontario has eliminated license plate renewal fees for most vehicles. However, some vehicle types, such as heavy commercial diesel vehicles, may still be subject to renewal fees.
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Emissions test (for heavy commercial diesel vehicles only).
Is Insurance Required To Renew License Plates In Ontario?
Yes, insurance is required to renew license plates in Ontario. According to the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act (R.S.O. 1990, c. C.25), all vehicles registered in Ontario must have valid automobile insurance to operate on public roads.
What Is The Fee For License Plate Renewal In Ontario?
As of March 13, 2022, the Ontario government has eliminated license plate renewal fees for passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and mopeds. This means that most vehicle owners in Ontario no longer need to pay a fee to renew their license plates.