Can a Non-Resident Register a Car in Ontario?
Yes, non-residents can register a car in Ontario under specific circumstances and conditions. The ability to register depends on the duration of stay, vehicle location, and compliance with provincial requirements established under the Highway Traffic Act.
When Non-Residents Must Register
Non-residents are required to register their vehicle in Ontario when:
- The individual becomes a new Ontario resident (must register within 30 days of moving to Ontario)
- Foreign residents reside or carry on business in Ontario for more than three consecutive months.
When Registration is Not Required
Non-residents do not need to register their vehicle in Ontario if:
- Foreign residents are staying temporarily for less than three consecutive months with valid out-of-jurisdiction registration
- Out-of-province Canadian residents are staying for less than six consecutive months with valid provincial registration
- The vehicle remains registered in another jurisdiction with valid insurance and registration plates
- Visiting Ontario for tourism or short-term business purposes
- The jurisdiction of residence grants similar exemptions to Ontario residents
Eligibility Requirements for Non-Resident Registration
Non-residents eligible for vehicle registration include:
- Temporary workers with valid work permits exceeding allowable timeframes
- International students attending Ontario educational institutions for extended periods
- Foreign residents with stays exceeding three consecutive months
- Out-of-province Canadian residents with stays exceeding six consecutive months
- Individuals relocating to Ontario as new residents
Documentation Requirements
To register a vehicle, non-residents must provide:
- Proof of identity: Valid driver's licence or acceptable proof of identity document with legal name, date of birth and signature, or registrant identification number (RIN)
- Ontario insurance: Valid coverage from an insurance provider licensed in Ontario
- Proof of ownership: Original vehicle permit from seller with completed transfer portion, or lease agreement documentation
- Safety Standards Certificate: Required for most vehicles (not required for trailers, mopeds, off-road vehicles or snowmobiles)
Registration Process
Non-residents must complete registration through authorized ServiceOntario centres located throughout the province. ServiceOntario centres are authorized to:
- Process registration applications and collect required documentation
- Verify identity documents and proof of insurance coverage
- Collect applicable fees including vehicle permit ($32) and licence plate ($59) costs
- Issue registration certificates, licence plates and vehicle permits
- Process retail sales tax or harmonized sales tax as applicable for out-of-province purchases