Ontario Temporary Licence Plates: Everything Drivers Need to Know

Co-Author by Michelle Bragg, VP Personal Lines, RIBO-Licensed Broker | Last Reviewed: July 2026

Can You Drive a Car Without Plates in Ontario After Buying It?

Yes, but you need the right documentation. In Ontario, temporary licence plates aren't issued the way they are in other provinces. Instead, when you buy a vehicle, you receive a Bill of Sale and a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP), which allow you to drive the car home. You must carry these documents, proof of insurance, and a valid driver's licence. However, you can only drive directly to your home or to a ServiceOntario location to register the vehicle—no detours or errands.

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. Consult a licensed insurance broker for advice specific to your situation and review current laws and requirements set by the Government of Ontario.

How Do Temporary Licence Plates Work in Ontario?

Ontario doesn't use traditional paper temporary plates like many U.S. states or other provinces. Instead, the province relies on a permit system that allows you to legally operate an unplated vehicle for a short period after purchase.

When you buy a car—new or used—the dealer or private seller provides you with a Bill of Sale. This document, combined with the Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) for used vehicles, acts as your temporary authorization to drive. According to the Government of Ontario, you must register your vehicle and obtain licence plates within six days of the sale date.

During those six days, you can drive the vehicle without plates, but only under specific conditions. You must:

• Have valid auto insurance coverage in place
• Carry the Bill of Sale and UVIP (if applicable)
• Have your driver's licence with you
• Drive directly to your home or to a ServiceOntario location
• Not use the vehicle for personal errands, work, or pleasure driving

This system is designed to give buyers a narrow window to complete registration, not to allow extended use of an unplated vehicle.

What Documents Do You Need to Drive a Car Home Without Plates in Ontario?

You'll need three key documents to legally drive an unplated vehicle in Ontario:

1. Bill of Sale – Must include the seller's name, buyer's name, vehicle identification number (VIN), sale date, and purchase price. Both parties should sign it.
2. Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) – Required for used vehicles purchased from private sellers. This package includes the vehicle's registration history, lien information, and details about previous damage. Dealers typically provide this automatically.
3. Proof of Insurance – You must have active auto insurance coverage before you drive the vehicle. Without it, you're breaking the law and risking fines, licence suspension, and personal liability.

If you're buying from a private seller, they're responsible for providing the UVIP. If they don't have one, you can purchase it from a ServiceOntario location or online for approximately $20.

Never assume you can drive without insurance. Even if you're just going a few blocks, you need coverage. Many buyers make the mistake of thinking they can "add the car later" or rely on a grace period. In Ontario, there is no grace period. You need insurance the moment you get behind the wheel.

Read our blog on what happens if you drive without insurance to learn more about the consequences and risks.

How Do You Get Insurance for a Car You Just Bought?

Getting car insurance before you drive a newly purchased vehicle home is easier than most people think. If you already have an active auto policy in Ontario, many insurers offer automatic coverage for a newly acquired vehicle—typically for 14 days. However, this coverage usually only applies if you're replacing a vehicle, not adding one.

If you're buying your first car, adding a second vehicle, or switching from a private sale, you should contact a broker before you pick up the car. A BIG broker can set up immediate coverage over the phone or online. You'll receive a temporary insurance slip (pink slip) via email that you can print or show on your phone.

Here's what you'll need to provide:

• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Year, make, and model
• Odometer reading
• Purchase price or estimated value
• Your driver's licence number

Once your policy is active, you can legally drive the vehicle. Remember, according to the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA), driving without insurance in Ontario can result in fines starting at $5,000, licence suspension, and vehicle impoundment. It's not worth the risk.

For information on what auto insurance Ontario drivers need, read our blog about what car insurance covers in Canada.

How Long Are Temporary Permits Valid in Ontario?

You have six days from the date of sale to register your vehicle and obtain licence plates, according to the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). This is not an optional timeline, it's the legal limit; enforced by the provincial government via the MTO.

During those six days, you can only drive the vehicle for registration purposes. Once the six-day period expires, you cannot legally operate the vehicle on public roads without registered plates. If you're caught driving an unplated vehicle after this window closes, you could face fines and potential impoundment.

If you need more time—for example, if you're waiting on financing approval or arranging an out-of-province inspection—you should not drive the vehicle. Instead, arrange for towing or storage until you can complete registration.

What Happens If You Drive Without Plates After the Six-Day Window?

Driving an unregistered vehicle beyond the six-day period is illegal. If stopped by police, you could face:

• Fines up to $1,000 for operating an unregistered vehicle
• Additional fines for driving without valid plates
• Vehicle impoundment
• Demerit points or licence suspension if insurance is also missing

Even if you have a Bill of Sale and insurance, you cannot extend the six-day window. Ontario's system is clear: register the vehicle or don't drive it.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Vehicle and Get Plates in Ontario?

Registration costs vary depending on whether you're registering a new or used vehicle and the type of plates you need. As of 2026, according to the MTO’s documentation on registering a vehicle, and used vehicle information packages, standard fees include:

• Licence plate fee: $59 for a new set of plates
• Vehicle permit (registration): $32 annually
• Used Vehicle Information Package: $20 (if required)
• Drive Clean test: Not required as of April 2019
• Safety Standards Certificate: Approximately $80–$150 (required for used vehicles; not government regulated)

If you're transferring plates from another vehicle you own, you can avoid the $59 plate fee. However, you'll still need to pay for the permit and provide a safety certificate if buying used.

Do You Need a Permit to Drive an Unplated Vehicle for Other Reasons?

If you need to drive an unplated vehicle for reasons other than initial purchase—such as moving a project car, transporting a vehicle to a repair shop, or driving a car you're selling—you may need a Special Permit to Operate an Unplated Vehicle.

This permit, available from ServiceOntario, allows limited operation of an unplated vehicle for a specific purpose. According to ServiceOntario, permit costs range from $23.50 up to $205 in specific circumstances and are valid for 10 days. You'll need to provide:

• Proof of ownership
• Valid driver's licence
• Proof of insurance
• A valid reason for the permit

This permit is not a substitute for proper registration. It's a short-term solution for specific circumstances.

What Should You Do If You Buy a Car from a Private Seller?

Buying from a private seller requires extra diligence. Here's a step-by-step checklist:

1. Arrange insurance before you pick up the car – Contact a broker at least a day in advance. A BIG broker can set up coverage quickly and email you a temporary pink slip.
2. Verify the UVIP – The seller must provide this. Check for liens, outstanding loans, or branded titles (salvage, rebuilt, etc.).
3. Complete a Bill of Sale – Both parties should sign. Include all required details: VIN, sale date, price, and contact information.
4. Obtain a Safety Standards Certificate – Required for used vehicles. The seller typically arranges this, but confirm before finalizing the sale.
5. Drive directly home or to ServiceOntario – No side trips. Register the vehicle within six days.

For more tips on buying used, read Tips for Buying a Used Car.

Can You Drive a New Car Home Without Insurance?

No. Even if you're buying from a dealership, you must have insurance in place before driving off the lot. Reputable dealers will not release the vehicle until you provide proof of coverage.

Some dealers may offer temporary insurance through their own providers, but this is often more expensive than arranging your own policy. It's smarter to contact a broker before you visit the dealership. You can provide the VIN once the sale is complete, and your broker can finalize coverage on the spot.

Never assume the dealer's insurance covers you. If you're involved in an accident on the way home and you're not insured, you'll be personally liable for damages, injuries, and legal costs.

It is important to remember different rules apply whether you're replacing a car in your policy, or adding one. For more information on managing your insurance after buying a new vehicle, review our blog on transferring your auto insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Temporary Plates in Ontario

Can I drive a car without plates if I just bought it in Ontario?

Yes, you can drive a car without plates for up to six days after purchase if you have a Bill of Sale, UVIP (for used cars), and valid insurance. You must drive directly to your home or a ServiceOntario location—no detours allowed.

How do I get temporary plates in Ontario?

Ontario doesn't issue traditional temporary plates. Instead, you use your Bill of Sale and UVIP as proof of purchase. You must register your vehicle and obtain permanent plates within six days of the sale date.

How much does it cost to get a permit to drive an unplated vehicle in Ontario?

A Special Permit to Operate an Unplated Vehicle costs approximately $15 and is valid for 10 days. This permit is for specific purposes like moving a vehicle for repair, not for post-purchase use.

Can I drive a car home without insurance in Ontario?

No. You must have active auto insurance before you drive any vehicle in Ontario. Driving without insurance can result in fines starting at $5,000, licence suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Contact a broker before you pick up the car.

How long are temporary permits valid in Ontario?

You have six days from the date of sale to register your vehicle. This is the legal window to drive without plates. After six days, driving an unplated vehicle is illegal and subject to fines and impoundment.

What documents do I need to drive a car home after buying it in Ontario?

You need a Bill of Sale, Used Vehicle Information Package (for used cars), proof of insurance, and a valid driver's licence. Keep all documents with you while driving the unplated vehicle to avoid fines.

Just Bought a Car? Make Sure Your Insurance Is Sorted Before You Drive It Home

Don't wait until you're at the dealership or the seller's driveway to think about insurance. A BIG broker can set up coverage in minutes, email you a temporary pink slip, and make sure you're fully protected before you turn the key.

Whether you're buying new, used, or adding a second vehicle, we'll find you the right coverage at the best rate. Contact us today or get a car insurance quote online in under five minutes.