Many people are happy the Government of Ontario has scrapped the fee for license plate renewals along with the sticker system. They were also pleasantly surprised to get a refund for fees paid after March 2020.
However, that doesn’t mean you can drive around with an expired license. The changes to this system in the last couple of years have caused a lot of confusion. It’s important to know that if you own a passenger vehicle you still need to renew your license plate for free through Service Ontario.
“Since March 31, 2022, police have charged 16 people under Section 7(1)(a) of the Highway Traffic Act for driving a motor vehicle without a currently validated permit. Another 29 individuals have been warned,” shared Cornwall Police Service’s Director of Corporate Strategy & Communications, Stephanie MacRae in response to our email asking when police are going to start enforcing the new system.
License plate renewals can be completed in person or online every one or two years. You can renew your plate up to 180 days before it expires, usually before your birthday. Even though you no longer get a sticker, law enforcement will see that your plate was renewed immediately.
To renew your license plate, you need your:
- license plate number
- vehicle permit number
- insurance company name and policy number
- odometer reading
- to pay any defaulted fines, tolls, or fees
Keep in mind that the process for commercial and heavy vehicles (over 3,000 kg) is a little different. Also, snow vehicles still require a plate sticker.
Did you know? You can sign up for free digital reminders (offered by the province of Ontario) via email, text, or phone call so you never miss another expiry date! Reminders are sent 60 and 30 days before your license plate renewal is due.
