You and Your Used Car: The Glorious (and Affordable) Dance of Ontario Registration Fees
So, you've snagged yourself a sweet set of wheels (hopefully not literally, because that would be a rough ride). Now comes the not-so-glamorous part: getting it registered in Ontario. Fear not, intrepid car owner! This guide will break down the registration fees like a mechanic explains questionable car noises – easy to understand, even if it sounds a little scary at first.
The Big Ticket: Sales Tax (Brace Yourself, It's Not a Discount)
This is the main event, folks. In Ontario, you'll pay 13% Retail Sales Tax (RST) on the higher of two numbers: the purchase price of your car or its wholesale value. Yes, you read that right. The government isn't interested in your bargaining skills, they just want their cut.
But Wait, There's More! (Except There Isn't, Really)
Thankfully, that's pretty much it! There's a $32 vehicle permit fee and a $59 license plate fee (or $20 for a replacement), but those are like the sprinkles on top of the registration sundae – relatively minor compared to the sales tax. Oh, and any outstanding fines under your name. You wouldn't want to skip out on those, would you?
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| How Much To Register A Used Car In Ontario |
So, How Much am I Looking At?
This depends entirely on your car's value. Let's say you bought a reliable (but slightly beat-up) 2015 sedan for $10,000. The higher value here is likely the purchase price, so you'd pay 13% RST which comes to $1,300. Add the permit and plate fees, and you're looking at around $1,391 to waltz your used car into the world of Ontario registration.
Now for the Fun Part: Saving Money (Maybe)
QuickTip: Take a pause every few paragraphs.
- Be a Northerner: If you live in the glorious north of Ontario, you get a discount! Registration fees are roughly half the price compared to southern Ontario. So, consider yourself lucky if you can convince a moose to deliver your car up there.
- The Age of Wisdom (or Questionable Value): If your car is an antique (20 years or older), you'll need an appraisal to determine its value for the sales tax. This might save you some money, but it depends on the appraiser's mood and your car's ability to impress.
How To FAQs
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How to Register My Used Car?
Head to a ServiceOntario centre with the proper paperwork (proof of ownership, insurance, etc.). https://www.ontario.ca/page/vehicle-registration
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
How to Avoid Paying Sales Tax?
Only if you're buying from a registered dealer and the vehicle is brand new. Sorry, no tax loopholes here!
How Long Do I Have to Register My Car?
You have 6 days from the date of purchase to register your car. Don't make the Ministry of Transportation come after you with ruler-wielding bureaucrats!
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
How Much Does it Cost to Transfer a Plate?
There's no separate fee to transfer a plate you already own. Just pay the registration fees and you're good to go.
How Do I Know How Much My Car is Worth?
Online resources or a used car valuation service can give you a good estimate. Remember, it's the higher value that gets taxed, so don't lowball yourself!
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