Can You Sell a Car Without Registration in Ontario?
In Ontario, you can legally sell a vehicle without current registration, provided you meet specific legal requirements and understand the limitations that apply to such transactions.
Legal Framework and Regulations
The legal authority for vehicle registration and sales in Ontario is established under the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, which governs the requirements for vehicle permits, registration, and ownership transfers. The Act establishes that while vehicles must be registered for operation on public roadways, the sale of unregistered vehicles is permissible under certain circumstances.
Under Ontario law, sellers are required to provide specific documentation regardless of the vehicle's registration status, including a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) and a completed bill of sale.
Private Vehicle Sales Without Registration
Permissible Circumstances:
- Private party transactions between individuals where the vehicle is sold "as-is" without a Safety Standards Certificate
- Non-operational vehicles being sold for parts, restoration, or off-road use only
- Vehicles sold "as-is" where the buyer explicitly assumes responsibility for obtaining registration and safety certification
- Estate sales where vehicles from a deceased person's estate are being transferred to new owners
- Family transfers between close family members, which may qualify for specific tax exemptions
When selling a vehicle "as-is," the seller must clearly state this condition in writing on the bill of sale and any advertising materials. The buyer then becomes responsible for obtaining the necessary Safety Standards Certificate and completing the registration process if they intend to operate the vehicle on public roads.
6-Day Registration Grace Period
Ontario legislation requires that buyers must register their name as the new owner within 6 days of purchase. This mandatory registration period applies to all vehicle purchases and is enforced under the Highway Traffic Act regulations.
During these 6 days:
- Buyers cannot legally operate the vehicle on public roadways without proper registration and plates
- The vehicle must have valid insurance coverage before it can be registered
- Buyers must visit a ServiceOntario centre with all required documentation
- Temporary permits may be available for specific circumstances, such as moving the vehicle for inspection purposes
- After 6 days, failure to register constitutes a violation of provincial vehicle registration requirements
The registration process requires buyers to present proof of insurance, a valid Ontario driver's licence, the UVIP, bill of sale, and a Safety Standards Certificate (unless the vehicle was purchased "as-is" for non-road use).