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Nestled in the heart of Canada, Manitoba stands as a province brimming with natural beauty and cultural diversity. Known for its expansive prairies, serene lakes, and vibrant cities, Manitoba offers a rich tapestry of experiences for residents and visitors alike. As a vital part of Canada’s transportation network, vehicle registration in Manitoba is governed by specific regulations tailored to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency on the province’s roads. Whether navigating urban streets or exploring rural landscapes, understanding Manitoba’s vehicle registration requirements is essential for motorists to enjoy the province’s offerings responsibly and securely.
Requirements for Vehicle Registration in Manitoba
Here are the requirements for legally registering any vehicle in the province of Manitoba. Failing to meet any of these registration requirements can result in fines or the rejection of your registration application.
| Requirement | |
|---|---|
| Age | Minimum age for registration is 16; under 18 requires parental consent. |
| Driver’s License | Valid Manitoba driver’s license required; out-of-province licenses not accepted. |
| Insurance | Valid Manitoba insurance, including liability coverage, is mandatory for registration. |
| Residency | Only permanent Manitoba residents can register vehicles. |
| Ownership Documentation | Proof of ownership such as a bill of sale or title transfer form needed. |
| Safety Inspection | All vehicles must pass certified mechanical inspection with a valid safety certificate. |
Vehicle Registration Services in Manitoba
These are the agencies that provide services in Manitoba for those who want to register their vehicles:
| Agency | Services Provided | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) | Vehicle registration, licensing, insurance | Website: mpi.mb.ca Phone: 1-800-665-2410 |
| Autopac Agent | Vehicle registration, licensing, insurance | Contact local Autopac agent |
| Inspection Stations | Safety inspections for vehicle registration | Contact local authorized station |
How to Register a Vehicle: New, Used or Out-of-Province Vehicles
New Vehicles
- Secure a bill of sale from the dealership or private seller.
- Arrange insurance through an Autopac agent before taking possession of the vehicle.
- Complete a safety inspection at an authorized station to certify mechanical safety standards.
- Bring all documentation (bill of sale, insurance, safety inspection) to any MPI service centre, broker, or registration agent.
Used Vehicles
- Register the vehicle within 10 days of purchase to avoid a $10 late transfer fee.
- Get ownership transfer documents: get a Transfer of Ownership Document (TOD) signed by the seller (including odometer reading and sale price). If you purchased the car from a dealership, they will handle the paperwork.
- Accomplish safety inspection and obtain a Certificate of Inspection (COI) for registration, and valid auto insurance with applicable taxes paid.
- Complete registration at any Autopac agent location.
Out-of-Province Vehicles
- Other Canadian Provinces:
- Obtain a valid Certificate of Inspection (COI) from an authorized inspection station.
- Provide Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) with previous registration, ownership documentation, and identification.
- Pay applicable taxes and registration fees.
- Receive new registration and plates from MPI.
- Other Countries:
- Provide Canadian Border Services documents.
- Present previous foreign registration.
- Obtain safety inspection certificates.
- Provide receipts for duty and taxes paid.
- Meet MPI requirements for registration.
Vehicle Registration Fees
| Cost Component | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fees | Annual registration fee varies based on vehicle type and weight class. | Standard personal-use vehicles: $129 annually. Motorcycles: $56. Trailers: $62. Commercial trucks, tractor-trailers, and buses: Varies. |
| Inspection Fees | – All vehicles require a Certificate of Inspection (COI). Dealers will provide the COI for new vehicles. Inspections of used vehicles are conducted at authorized stations. |
$55 |
| Taxes | Exception: Used vehicles bought privately. | 7% Retail Sales Tax (RST) on private vehicle purchases. International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) decal fee for diesel vehicles over 11,794 kg. |
Manitoba Vehicle Registration FAQ
How soon must I register a vehicle purchased in Manitoba?
You must register a newly purchased car in Manitoba within 30 days of taking delivery.Can I drive a car I just bought before registering it?
Yes, newly purchased vehicles can be driven for up to 30 days before needing registration. Obtain a free 30-day registration permit if required.Can I register a car in Manitoba without a driver’s license?
Yes, you can register a vehicle in Manitoba without a valid local driver’s license. However, you still need to provide alternate accepted identification such as a Manitoba Enhanced Identification Card, out-of-province driver’s license, or other government-issued photo ID. You also need to have a Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) file opened.lIs my out-of-province driver’s license valid in Manitoba if I just moved to the province?
Yes, other Canadian province driver’s licenses remain valid in Manitoba for 3 months after taking up residency. You must switch your license within these 3 months by passing a vision test and paying applicable fees. Get a Certificate of Inspection during this window if registering a vehicle as well.Is my car still insured if I relocate from another province to Manitoba?
Likely not. Your previous province’s insurance is only valid in Manitoba for a short period after moving there. Manitoba requires all registered vehicles to carry Manitoba Public Insurance. Be prepared to purchase Autopac insurance to avoid fines or issues – this must be done quickly after moving.How can I transfer my out-of-province vehicle registration to Manitoba?
To transfer your out-of-province vehicle registration to Manitoba, you must first cancel your previous registration and auto insurance in the previous province. Make sure to request a refund for any remaining premiums. When registering the vehicle in Manitoba, bring the canceled registration documentation. An MPI agent will then initiate the registration process and issue new Manitoba plates and registration cards. While there’s no fee specifically for transferring out-of-province registration, you will be required to pay the annual registration fee based on your vehicle type.The most comprehensive Automotive Data & Analytics
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