Car taxes, registration and paperwork in Canada
Vehicle rules in Canada are set by each province, so the paperwork you need in Ontario is not the same as in Quebec or British Columbia. This section explains the taxes you pay, the documents that change hands, and the provincial agencies that handle registration and dealer licensing.
Car Bill of Sale in Canada: A Practical Guide
A car bill of sale is a written record of the sale.
Buying a Car as a Newcomer to Canada
Newcomers can buy a car in Canada, but three things usually need attention first: a driver's licence valid in your province, car insurance, and a way to build or show credit.
Buying a Car in Alberta: AMVIC, Registries and Tax
Alberta has no provincial sales tax, so buyers pay only the 5% GST on dealer purchases.
How to Buy a Car in British Columbia
To buy a car in British Columbia, deal with a licensed dealer (checked through MVSABC) or a private seller, pay 7% PST on most vehicle purchases, and register and insure the vehicle through ICBC.
Buying a Car in Quebec: SAAQ, Taxes and Consumer Protection
Buying a car in Quebec involves the SAAQ for registration, GST of 5% plus QST of 9.975%, and consumer protection rules overseen by the Office de la protection du consommateur.
Ontario Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) Explained
An Ontario Safety Standards Certificate confirms a vehicle met minimum safety requirements on the day a licensed inspection station checked it.
Ontario Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) Explained
The Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) is an Ontario document that private sellers must give buyers.
Sales Tax on a Car Purchase in Canada: GST, HST, PST, QST
Sales tax on a car depends on your province of residence and who sells it.
Vehicle Registration in Canada: A Province-by-Province Overview
Vehicle registration in Canada is handled by each province or territory, not the federal government.
Other topics
- Buying a carNew, used, private sale, imports and dealers.
- Car financingLoans, leases, rates and down payments.
- Selling & your rightsPrivate sales, trade-ins and buyer protection.
- Owning a carInsurance, winter care and running costs.
- Vehicle typesEVs, hybrids, SUVs, trucks and winter fitness.