If you’re in Ontario and have just bought a new car or need to move one around before your official plates arrive, you might wonder if do you need insurance for temporary plates ontario. It’s a common question, and the answer is pretty straightforward—but you should know a few things before hitting the road.

In Ontario, temporary plates (or “permit plates”) are issued to allow you to legally drive your vehicle while waiting for the permanent registration and plates. But even with temporary plates, insurance is still required. Whether driving a car from a dealership or just transferring ownership, you need valid insurance coverage. Let’s break down why insurance is necessary for temporary plates and what you must do to ensure you’re covered.

Can I Drive A Car Home After Buying It Without Plates Ontario?

Yes, you can drive a car home after buying it without plates in Ontario, but only for 6 days. You need a temporary vehicle permit and valid insurance. The temporary permit allows you to drive the car legally for up to 10 days before you receive your permanent plates. You must also have proof of insurance, as driving without it is illegal. If you bought the car from a dealership, they usually provide the permit and insurance assistance. If it’s a private sale, you’ll need to obtain a temporary permit from ServiceOntario.

How Does A 10 Day Permit Work In Ontario?

In Ontario, a 10-day temporary permit allows you to legally drive a vehicle without permanent plates or registration for up to 10 days. Here’s how it works:

  1. Issuance: You can obtain a 10-day permit from ServiceOntario either online or in person. If you buy a car from a dealership, they often provide the permit for you.
  2. Coverage: The permit is valid for 10 days and can only be used for driving the vehicle to get it home, to a service location, or to complete the registration process.
  3. Insurance: Before using the temporary permit, you must have valid car insurance in place. Insurance is required for all vehicles on Ontario’s roads, including those with temporary permits.
  4. Vehicle Ownership: You’ll need proof of ownership (e.g., a bill of sale) to show you are the vehicle’s legal owner.
  5. Usage: The permit allows you to drive the car without needing permanent plates, but it expires after 10 days. You must have the vehicle properly registered and have permanent plates before the permit expires.

In short, the 10-day temporary permit gives you a limited window to drive your newly purchased vehicle legally while you wait for permanent registration and plates.

Do You Need Insurance for Temporary Plates Ontario?

Yes, you do need insurance for temporary plates in Ontario.

When you receive temporary plates (also known as a temporary vehicle permit) in Ontario, it allows you to legally drive your vehicle until your permanent registration and plates arrive. However, even with these temporary plates, you are still required by law to have valid car insurance in place before driving the vehicle on public roads.

Here’s why:

  1. Legal Requirement: Ontario’s laws stipulate that all vehicles driven on public roads must be insured, including those with temporary plates. Without insurance, you could face hefty fines, and if you’re involved in an accident, you could be financially liable for damages and medical expenses.
  2. Protection for You and Others: Insurance ensures you’re covered in case of an accident, theft, or damage. Whether it’s liability coverage (to protect others) or comprehensive and collision coverage (to protect your own vehicle), it’s crucial to have some form of insurance.

In summary, while temporary plates allow you to drive a new or unregistered vehicle, insurance is still a must. Be sure to set up your coverage beforehand so you’re legally and financially protected. If you’re unsure about what kind of coverage you need, our insurance experts can guide you through the process and help you find the best options for your situation.

do you need insurance for temporary plates ontario

Temporary License Plate Ontario Cost

There is no fixed cost of a temporary license. It varies on the type of plater you want. Still here is an idea:

Service Cost
Temporary Vehicle Permit (10-day) $10.00
Replacement of Temporary Permit $10.00
Shipping fee (if applicable) $5.00 (if you choose mail delivery)

Notes:

  • The temporary vehicle permit is valid for 10 days, and the fee is the same whether you’re getting it for the first time or replacing a lost permit.
  • The shipping fee is only applicable if you choose to have the permit mailed to you rather than picking it up in person.

This is the typical cost for a temporary license plate permit in Ontario. You can obtain it from an Ontario insurance broker online or in person.

 

How To Get Temporary Plates Ontario?

To get temporary plates (temporary vehicle permit) in Ontario, follow these steps:

1. Prepare Required Documents

  • Proof of vehicle ownership: A bill of sale, purchase agreement, or transfer of ownership document.
  • Proof of insurance: A valid insurance policy or card for the vehicle.
  • Identification: A valid Ontario driver’s license or government-issued ID.

2. Visit ServiceOntario

  • Online: You can apply for a temporary permit through the ServiceOntario website (if you’re purchasing a vehicle from a private sale).
  • In-Person: You can visit any ServiceOntario location. If you bought the car from a dealership, they might be able to provide you with the permit directly.

3. Apply for the Temporary Permit

  • If you’re applying online, follow the instructions on the ServiceOntario website to submit your documents and payment.
  • If you’re visiting in person, you’ll need to bring all the required documents and pay for the permit at the ServiceOntario counter.

4. Pay the Fee

  • The cost for a 10-day temporary vehicle permit is $10 (plus an optional $5 shipping fee if you want the permit mailed to you).

5. Receive Your Temporary Permit

  • Once approved, you’ll receive the temporary vehicle permit, which you must display in your vehicle (it often comes in the form of a paper document).
  • If you opted for mail delivery, the permit will be sent to you within a few days.

6. Drive Legally

  • The temporary permit allows you to drive the vehicle legally for up to 10 days while you wait for your permanent plates and registration.

Or if you wanna cut the crab out and save some time to yourself, then just contact us. We will help you get things done without any hassle and all.

Ways To Get Temporary License Plate Ontario Online

Getting a temporary license plate online in Ontario is a pretty straightforward process. If you’ve recently bought a vehicle and need to drive it home or to get it registered, you can apply for a temporary vehicle permit through the ServiceOntario website. All you need is to have the required documents ready, like proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or purchase agreement), proof of valid insurance, and your personal ID.

To get started, simply visit the ServiceOntario website and navigate to the section for vehicle registration and permits. You’ll be asked to fill out a few details about the vehicle and pay a small fee, typically around $10. Once everything is processed, you’ll either get your temporary permit immediately through a downloadable PDF or have it mailed to you, depending on your choice.

Just make sure your insurance is active, as you can’t drive without it, even with temporary plates! It’s an easy way to get legal access to your vehicle while you wait for your permanent plates.

Final Thought

Getting a temporary license plate in Ontario is a simple process that allows you to drive your vehicle legally while waiting for permanent registration. You can easily apply online through ServiceOntario with the required documents and valid insurance. If you need assistance or have questions, our team is here to help make the process smooth and hassle-free.

How Ontario Insurance Can Help with Temporary Plate Coverage?

Navigating temporary plates in Ontario? Make sure you’re fully covered before hitting the road. Our insurance experts can guide you through the process, help you find the right coverage, and ensure you’re legally protected. Don’t take risks—get the right insurance today!