Just bought a used car? Here’s how to register and plate it
Are you the proud new owner of a car you bought from a friend, family member or online seller? Before you can legally get behind the wheel of your new ride, you’ll need to make sure you have a licence plate. Don’t worry if you’ve never done this before: registering your car and getting a licence plate is a fast and simple process. In this article, the team at Auto Value walks you through the required steps.
Visiting the SAAQ
While many government services are now available online, to register a new car you need to head to your local Société d’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) branch. Since you bought the vehicle used, the seller will need to accompany you so that the transfer of ownership can be completed. If the seller is unable to travel, he or she will need to fill out and sign a power of attorney form and entrust it to someone who can represent him or her.
At the SAAQ, you’ll also need to pay the obligatory Quebec Sales Tax (QST). This step is required by law after purchasing a used vehicle.
Required documents
There are a couple of things you’ll need to bring with you to the SAAQ:
• A piece of photo ID, ideally your driver’s licence (the seller needs to present their ID too)
• The vehicle’s current registration certificate (provided by the seller)
Payment methods
Note that credit cards aren’t accepted when registering a vehicle. You can pay by:
1. Cash
2. Debit
3. A cheque or money order made out to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec.
New licence plate
Once the payment is made, a registration certificate will be issued for your car. You’ll also receive a new licence plate if you don’t already have one. The seller can keep the licence plate that was previously on the car and use it on a future car if he or she chooses.
Personalized licence plates
Do you want to add a personal touch to your licence plate? Once your car has been properly registered, you can order a personalized licence plate for just over $250. Note that this service is only available online and that the combination of letters and numbers you choose must comply with certain criteria.
Now you’re ready to roll! Just install your licence plate and you can hit the highway with your new set of wheels.
When considering buying a used vehicle, make sure to get it inspected before making your purchase. For dependable inspection services, make an appointment at an Auto Value Certified Service Center near you.
Service is the difference. We get it!