When scrapping your car in Canada, most of the attention is on finding a scrapyard, arranging vehicle removal, and completing the necessary paperwork. However, one critical step that often gets overlooked is dealing with your license plates. Proper disposal of your license plates is not just an administrative detail—it’s a legal requirement in Canada and a way to protect yourself from potential liability. In this guide, we’ll explain why handling your plates the right way is important and how to properly dispose of them after scrapping your vehicle in Canada.
Reasons To Properly Dispose of License Plates
Properly disposing of your license plates is crucial for legal compliance. It also protects you from potential fraud. Here’s why it matters:
Legal Requirements
In Canada, license plates belong to the vehicle owner, not the car. When scrapping or selling a vehicle, you must remove and dispose of the plates properly. Regulations vary by province; in Ontario, for instance, you must return plates to a ServiceOntario centre before cancelling registration to avoid fines. Always check your province’s specific requirements for compliance.
Protection Against Fraud and Theft
Disposing of your license plates after scrapping your car is essential for protecting yourself from potential fraud. If your old plates remain linked to your name, they could be misused on another vehicle, leaving you liable for any associated fines, such as parking tickets or traffic violations. By returning your plates, you reduce the risk of being held responsible for actions taken by someone else using your old plates.
What to Do with Old License Plates in Ontario
If you’re scrapping your car in Ontario and won’t be using your old license plates, the best course of action is to return them to a ServiceOntario center. This process is important to properly deregister your plates and prevent any future liability associated with the scrapped vehicle. Knowing how to cancel license plates in Ontario is essential for handling this correctly.
When you return your plates, it’s also necessary to transfer the vehicle permit or ownership to the scrapping company. This involves providing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the make and model of the car, your name and address as the vehicle owner, the plate number attached to the vehicle, and the smaller portion of the license plate validation sticker.
Returning license plates in Ontario is a simple process, but it’s crucial to follow the necessary steps to avoid complications later on.
Can I Keep My Old License Plate in Ontario
License plates are linked to the owner rather than the vehicle itself. This means that if you sell or change vehicles, you retain your license plates and can transfer them to your new vehicle. However, it’s a good idea to notify ServiceOntario that you no longer have the scrapped car to keep your records up to date.
If your old plates are worn or damaged, you have the option to exchange them for free. This can be particularly beneficial if your plates are hard to read or have become unsightly. You can then keep the new plates for your next vehicle, making sure you always have valid and readable registration.
Do You Get Money Back for Returning License Plates in Ontario?
When scrapping your vehicle in Ontario, you might wonder if you can receive any financial benefits from returning your license plates. Fortunately, there are opportunities for refunds and credits, depending on your situation.
In general, if you return your license plates before their renewal date, you may be eligible for a refund or credit for the remaining time on your license plate sticker. This applies to various types of vehicles, including heavy commercial vehicles and snowmobiles.
Steps to Obtain a Refund or Credit
- Visit a ServiceOntario Centre: Bring your license plates and the original vehicle permit.
- Discuss Options: A customer service representative will help you determine your eligibility for a refund or credit based on the remaining time on your sticker.
One-Time Refund for License Plate Sticker Fees
Individual owners of passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and mopeds may be eligible for a one-time refund for license plate sticker fees. However, certain conditions apply. Refunds will not be issued for plates associated with any outstanding fines or tolls, such as unpaid parking tickets. To qualify for a refund, all outstanding fees must be cleared.
Eligible customers can expect to receive a cheque in the mail after settling any outstanding fees. If you’ve moved to another province or territory or out of Canada, you can request that your refund be sent to your new address. To do so, be sure to provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), your Ontario plate number, and your current address.
Refund Amount
The refund amount for returning your license plate sticker depends on your last renewal and payment. Refunds are issued for full months of paid validation only; partial months are not eligible. Here’s a quick overview of potential refund amounts:
Passenger Vehicles and Light Commercial Vehicles
| Region | 1 Year | 2 Years |
| Southern Ontario | $120 | $240 |
| Northern Ontario | $60 | $120 |
Motorcycles and Mopeds
| Region | 1 Year | 2 Years |
| Southern Ontario | $42 | $84 |
| Northern Ontario | $21 | $42 |
Notes to Remember
- Business Vehicles: Refunds are not available for vehicles registered to companies or businesses.
- Deceased Individuals: Specific guidelines must be followed for refunds related to deceased individuals, requiring relevant documentation.
By returning your license plates when scrapping your car, you have the opportunity to receive a refund or credit, making it a smart step in the vehicle disposal process.
Provincial Guidelines Across Canada
Since you already know how to cancel license plates in Ontario, it’s time you learn how it works for other provinces. All the other regions in Canada have specific guidelines for returning, recycling, or safely storing unused license plates to prevent misuse. Here’s a quick guide on how to handle these plates in various provinces:
Alberta
In Alberta, if you no longer need your license plate, you can return it to any registry agent office either in person or by mail. To return it by mail, you must complete a Licence Plate/Parking Placard Cancellation Declaration form. Once the license plate is returned, your file will be updated to show that you no longer possess it. If you have moved out of Alberta, you should also return the plates to cancel your registration.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, when you cancel your vehicle insurance, you are required to return your plates, including personalized ones, to an Autoplan broker to receive a refund on your insurance. However, if your insurance simply expires, you do not need to return the plates.
Saskatchewan
In Saskatchewan, if you are no longer using your vehicle or you sell it, you should return the license plate to SGI or any motor license issuer. If you decide to cancel your registration or move to another jurisdiction, you must ensure the license plate is properly returned and destroyed to prevent misuse.
While each province has different procedures, they all stress the importance of returning old or unused plates to avoid potential misuse. It’s important to remember all of these information so that you know what to do with old license plates in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and other Canadian territories.
How We Can Help
At Scrap Car Removal Toronto, we pride ourselves on offering a hassle-free scrap car removal experience. Whether you’re scrapping a damaged car or an older model that’s no longer worth repairing, we provide competitive cash offers and recycle your vehicle responsibly.
Our team can also assist with removing your license plates and guide you through any necessary paperwork to make the process as smooth as possible.With our free, fast pick-up services, we collect your vehicle at your convenience—often on the same or next day. Our eco-friendly approach means every part of your car is recycled properly. Just give us a call or fill out our online quote form to see how much you can get for your scrap car today!
