FAQ: How to Register a New or Used Vehicle in British Columbia

British Columbia Vehicle Registration

Getting a new or used vehicle registered in British Columbia is a crucial and straightforward procedure that all vehicle owners must carry out. When you register the car you purchased following a meticulous VIN check inspection, you are adhering to the province’s legal obligations.

Make sure to keep a copy of your vehicle registration and insurance papers in your vehicle in case you get pulled over by the police or need to show proof of ownership or insurance.

Don’t forget to apply for the renewal of your current vehicle registration if there are any alterations in your contact information or vehicle ownership. These are effective ways to ensure compliance with the driving and vehicle regulations in British Columbia.

What is vehicle registration?

Car registration is the procedure of officially recording a vehicle with the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia. It entails furnishing the required documents and settling the obligatory fees and taxes to acquire a car permit and licence plate. In simple words, if you have successfully registered something under your name, you’ll be the rightful owner as per the government’s perspective.

Why register your vehicle in British Columbia?

Registering your vehicle in British Columbia is a compulsory obligation that must be fulfilled to comply with the law. This process serves to provide evidence of ownership and guarantees that your vehicle is legally enlisted in your name.

In British Columbia, this can provide you with safeguards against fraud, theft, and damage to your new or used vehicle.

Another benefit of having registration docus is that participating in a car-related transaction, such as insurance, tends to instill trust in third parties.

When do you need to register your vehicle?

If you come to British Columbia with a vehicle (or if you’re a B.C. resident returning home), you gotta make sure to get your vehicle registered, licensed, and insured within 30 days of arriving. And if you’re driving a commercial motor vehicle, it needs to be registered, licensed, and insured in B.C. right away.

Late vehicle registration in British Columbia can result in the imposition of outstanding fines and the accumulation of demerit points on your driver’s licence.

Generally, it is unlawful to drive an unregistered vehicle, and in the event of a collision, insurance coverage may be refused.

Required Documents for registering a new or used car

When buying a vehicle from another person or company in British Columbia, follow these steps:
1. Visit a local Autoplan broker.
2. Complete the transfer of ownership process and update the records accordingly.
If you are bringing a vehicle to British Columbia from another province, make sure to have the following documents:
1. Vehicle registration.
2. Title certificate from the previous province (e.g., Nova Scotia).
3. A passed vehicle inspection report.
4. Identification.
5. A completed bill of sale.

British Columbia Minimum Vehicle Insurance

In British Columbia, eh, the law requires you to have the minimum vehicle insurance when you apply for car registration;

up to $200,000 of Basic Vehicle Damage,
$200,000 in Third Party Liability
up to $1 million in Underinsured Motorist Protection and Inverse Liability Protection

This coverage offers financial protection in case the requirements for the above coverages are met during an accident.

Bear in mind that these criteria may not be enough in all cases. Many drivers have opted for extra coverage, like higher liability limits, optional benefits for boosted accident benefits coverage, comprehensive coverage, and collision coverage, to make sure they’re properly protected.

Steps to register a new or used vehicle in British Columbia

In British Columbia, car dealers often take care of the registration process for new cars or trucks on behalf of buyers. However, if you find yourself needing to handle it alone, there are certain steps you must follow.

Ensure you have all the required documents such as proof of ownership, proof of purchase, identification, and insurance, and others that may be required by the government.
Visit your local Autoplan broker and provide them with the necessary documents, pay any applicable fees and taxes, and complete the registration application.
Obtain a vehicle inspection if required, and bring the completed inspection form to the Autoplan broker.
Receive your new vehicle registration and license plates from the Autoplan broker.
Install the license plates on your vehicle and keep the registration documents handy.
If you plan to transfer insurance from a previously owned vehicle, visit your Autoplan broker and provide proof of sale and the transfer form.
Cancel the insurance for your old vehicle and insure your new vehicle with the broker.

Other Considerations When Registering a Vehicle

What is a Driving Permit?

In British Columbia, an official driving permit is a document that temporarily grants you the legal authority to drive your car or motorcycle on the roads during the registration process. This permit holds significant information including the vehicle identification number (VIN), ownership particulars, and the expiration date of the registration.

Regarding the vehicle permit number, its primary function is to efficiently identify and register individual vehicles within the province of British Columbia.

To get a vehicle permit, it is necessary to register your vehicle with the province of British Columbia. This process entails submitting the necessary paperwork and paying the relevant fee.

What is a Licence Plate?

In British Columbia, a licence plate is attached to both the front and back of your vehicle. It displays a distinct number that is linked to your vehicle and functions as a form of identification.

Meanwhile, British Columbia’s license plates in Canada are equipped with licence plate stickers to conveniently verify the validity of a vehicle’s registration.

It is also important to renew your British Columbia license plate annually in order to continue driving in the province.

What is a Driver’s License?

A driver’s licence authorizes an individual to legally drive a motor vehicle in British Columbia, Canada.

In British Columbia, vehicle registration can act as evidence of the owner’s qualifications and ability to operate a vehicle.

Traffic authorities may ask for a valid driver’s licence at checkpoints to verify that the individual has legal permission to drive on public roads.

What is a Bill of Sale?

The bill of sale holds significance in registering a vehicle as it acts as evidence of ownership. It contains crucial details about the transaction, such as the sale date, the amount paid, and the identities of both the buyer and seller. These details are essential for the purposes of registration.

Registration Fees and Taxes When You Register a Car in British Columbia

When you register a vehicle in British Columbia, you will need to pay several charges and taxes, which include registration fees, plate fees, and sales tax.

Registration Fee – $18
License Fee – $46 – $142
Antique Motor Vehicle – $35
License Plate – $18
Driving Permit – $4 – $12

The registration fees and taxes due are determined by the vehicle’s type and conditions.
Individuals have the option to choose a payment method for registration fees and taxes personally. Accepted modes of payment include cash, debit card, credit card, or certified cheque.

What to do if your vehicle is 20 years old or older

Cars that are five years old and older must successfully undergo a provincial vehicle safety inspection in the previous jurisdiction within the last 90 days.

Should I buy a used vehicle or a new vehicle?

The response to this question will vary from situation to situation.

Purchasing a used car in British Columbia can offer various advantages, including reduced costs, lower depreciation, and potentially lower insurance fees.

However, there are also drawbacks to buying a used car in British Columbia, including increased maintenance and repair expenses, limited warranty protection, and the chance of unknowingly buying a vehicle with undisclosed problems.

When purchasing a new automobile in British Columbia, there are several advantages to consider. These include the guarantee of a vehicle that has never been owned before, access to the most up-to-date technology and safety advancements, as well as the reassurance of a manufacturer warranty.

However, purchasing a new vehicle comes with certain drawbacks as well, including a steeper price tag, greater initial decrease in value, and potentially elevated insurance premiums owing to the vehicle’s higher worth.

Quick Tips When You Register a New or Used Vehicle in British Columbia

Registering a brand-new or pre-owned vehicle in British Columbia may seem like an intricate process, but with adequate understanding and readiness, you can guarantee a smooth and trouble-free transaction.

Whether you’re getting your first car or have registered a vehicle before, these handy tips will guide you through the necessary steps and rules, making the process easier and less stressful.

Gather the necessary documents: Before you begin the registration process, ensure you have all the necessary documents at hand, such as evidence of ownership, insurance, and identification. Having these documents easily accessible will make the registration process faster.
Research registration fees and taxes: In British Columbia, there are several charges and taxes that must be paid when you register a vehicle. It is crucial to have knowledge of these expenses so that you can plan your budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected costs during the registration process.
Complete a safety inspection, if needed: If you’re wanting to register a second-hand vehicle, you may need to present a safety standards certificate acquired from a licensed inspection station. Make sure the vehicle complies with all the safety regulations before starting the registration procedure.
Choose the right vehicle registration office: There are numerous registration offices available for vehicle registration. Take some time to explore nearby options and select one that suits your convenience. Additionally, it’s advisable to inquire about appointment requirements so that you can avoid long waiting periods.
Consider online registration options: In order to make things more efficient, British Columbia provides the option of registering your vehicle online for specific transactions. Opting for this choice can spare you the need to visit the registration office and offer a more convenient experience.
Double-check all details before leaving: Before heading out of the registration office, make sure you go through all the information on your registration documents meticulously to ensure everything is accurate. That includes checking your name, address, vehicle details, and any other pertinent information. Spotting any mistakes in advance will save you from future hassles and avoidable return visits to the office.