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Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s Maritime provinces, is known for its stunning coastline, rich maritime history, and vibrant culture. Located in the eastern part of the country, Nova Scotia is home to picturesque landscapes, charming coastal towns, and bustling cities like Halifax, its capital.
Vehicle registration is overseen by the In Nova Scotia Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), a division of the provincial government’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. The RMV is responsible for issuing Nova Scotia driver’s licences, vehicle permits, and licence plates, as well as managing vehicle registrations and inspections throughout the province.
Additionally, Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services play a role in vehicle registration processes, providing various services related to licensing, permits, and registration. Service Nova Scotia aims to enhance the delivery of government services and programs, including those related to vehicle registration, while Internal Services ensures efficient and effective operations within government departments.
Vehicle registration is overseen by the In Nova Scotia Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), a division of the provincial government’s Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. The RMV is responsible for issuing Nova Scotia driver’s licences, vehicle permits, and licence plates, as well as managing vehicle registrations and inspections throughout the province.
Additionally, Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services play a role in vehicle registration processes, providing various services related to licensing, permits, and registration. Service Nova Scotia aims to enhance the delivery of government services and programs, including those related to vehicle registration, while Internal Services ensures efficient and effective operations within government departments.
How to Register a Car in Nova Scotia
Essential for establishing ownership and acquiring license plates, Nova Scotia vehicle registration involves several key steps. (Registering new vehicles typically requires a New Vehicle Information Statement from the dealership, while used vehicles may need additional ownership verification like a bill of sale. Despite potential fee variations, the registration process remains similar for both new and used vehicles).
Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection (Out-of-Province and Used Cars)
Conducting a pre-sale safety inspection is mandatory for used vehicles and vehicles from outside the Atlantic provinces. It should be done no more than 30 days before the sale or within 30 days of entering the province of Nova Scotia. Sellers have three options for the safety inspection:- Complete the inspection themselves and provide a Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) Number.
- Allow the buyer to obtain the inspection within 10 days of the sale.
- Sell the vehicle with a “Sale of Vehicle Not Safety Approved” form, allowing the buyer to obtain the MVI in their name before receiving the vehicle permit.
Certificate of Registration for Motor Vehicles
This signed document serves as proof of ownership for the buyer. Upon purchase, the seller must:- Sign the “Seller” area on the Certificate of Registration (Transfer of Ownership).
- Complete the “Transfer of Title Certificate of Sale (Part 1)” section.
- Submit a notice of sale to the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV)
Car Insurance
Get car insurance, with a minimum of $500,000 in liability coverage, from an insurance company. There is no government-operated auto insurer in the province. During the vehicle registration process, you’ll need to complete a Statement of Insurance, which details your insurance company, policy number, and the effective and expiry dates. This will facilitate the issuance of the passenger vehicle permit, commonly known as licence plates.Certificate of Registration
Within 30 days of purchase, buyers must complete an Application for Certificate of Registration, which includes a tax declaration. Depending on specific circumstances, buyers may need to complete different sections of the application form.Fees for Vehicle Registration in Nova Scotia
Here’s a summary of fees to prepare for:
| Fee | Amount |
| Base registration fee | $61 – $189 |
| Motor vehicle inspection fee | $21.20 |
| Air emissions fee | $30 |
| Tire recycling fee | $2.50 per tire |
How to Renew Vehicle Registration in Nova Scotia
Vehicle registrations in Nova Scotia require renewal every 1 or 2 years, depending on the vehicle type. Renewal notices are typically mailed 6-8 weeks before the expiry date, so it’s essential to keep contact information updated with Access Nova Scotia.
Renewal options (consistent fees across all methods) include the following:
- mail-in,
- in-person at Access Nova Scotia locations
- online through the Access Nova Scotia website
| Vehicle Weight | Renewal Fee | Recording Fee | Late Renewal Penalty |
| Up to 3,000 lbs | $143.30 | $13.20 | $17.25 (within 30 days) |
| 3,001 to 4,500 lbs | $207.05 | $13.20 | $51.75 (31 days to 6 months late) |
| Over 4,500 lbs | $271.90 | $13.20 | New registration required (after 6 months) |
Frequently Asked Questions or FAQ on Vehicle Registration