Vehicle Requirements: Insurance, Registration & Maintenance Standards

Compulsory Auto Insurance:

Ontario has compulsory automobile insurance. Every vehicle registered in the province must be insured. You must show proof of insurance coverage before you can register a vehicle or renew your registration.

Vehicle Registration:

Vehicle registration includes licence plates and a vehicle permit. Licence plates in Ontario are based on a plate-to-owner system. This means vehicle licence plates move with the vehicle owner, not the vehicle. When you sell or change vehicles, you must remove your plates.

New Residents:

New Ontario residents have 30 days to register their vehicles. To get a permit and Ontario licence plates, go to ServiceOntario centre with:

• Safety standards certificate

• Proof of insurance

• Vehicle Import Forms (if from another country)

• Vehicle permit/ownership from previous jurisdiction

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements:

It is illegal to drive a vehicle in dangerous condition. A police officer or Ministry of Transportation inspector can examine your vehicle, its equipment and any trailer at any time. If found unsafe, it may be taken off the road until repaired.

Daily Driver Habits - Check for:

• Fresh damage

• Fluid leaks underneath

• Under-inflated or flat tires

• Ajar doors, hood, trunk and fuel cap

• Unsecured loads

• Ice, snow, or dirt on lights or windows

• Unobstructed visibility around entire vehicle

• Burned-out or dim headlights

• Illuminated dashboard warning lights

• Loose objects in vehicle

While Driving - Be Alert For:

• Unusual engine or exhaust noises

• Squeaking or grinding noises when braking

• Dashboard warning lights coming on

Extended Trip Preparations:

• Check windshield wipers and washer-fluid level

• Check tire pressures, condition and wear

• Ensure all lights work

• Check oil and coolant levels when engine cold

• Look for defects with belts, hoses, and leaks

• Have vehicle thoroughly inspected by qualified mechanic

Tire Requirements:

• Tires must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act standards

• Replace when tread is less than 1.5 millimetres deep

• Vehicles over 4,500 kg must replace front tires when tread less than 3mm

• Replace tires with bumps, bulges, knots, exposed cords or deep cuts

• Use similar tires on all four wheels

• Four winter or all-weather tires recommended for winter

• Northern Ontario can legally use studded tires

• Tires should not be older than 10 years

Winter Maintenance:

Carry emergency supplies:

• Shovel

• Booster cables

• Emergency flares or warning lights

• Blanket

• Chain for towing

• Extra windshield washer fluid

Faulty exhaust systems especially dangerous in winter when windows and vents more likely to be closed. Have exhaust checked if it sounds noisy or rattles.

Auto Insurance Fraud Protection:

When buying insurance, use licensed company, agent or broker. After collision, collect as much information as possible and take photos. Be suspicious of referrals pressuring you to use particular services. Refuse to sign blank forms and demand detailed bills.