Can I Put Plates on a Vehicle Without a Safety Certificate in Ontario?

You cannot skip the safety inspection when registering or plating a used vehicle in Ontario, unless you are exempt. In almost all cases, you need a valid Safety Standards Certificate (SSC). Ontario’s licensing rules ensure all vehicles meet minimum safety standards before they can be plated and driven.

Next, let’s look at when you need a Safety Standards Certificate, the rare exceptions, and how the DriveON inspection program is involved.

Situations Where a Safety Certificate Is NOT Required

Ontario provides a few limited exemptions. You do not need a Safety Standards Certificate when:

• Transferring a vehicle to your spouse

• Registering a used motorized snow vehicle (snowmobile)

• Registering an off-road vehicle (ORV)

• Registering a motor-assisted bicycle (moped)

• Registering a trailer

These categories are either exempt from standard safety inspection requirements for specific reasons or have their own distinct processes.

Can I Get Temporary Plates Without a Safety

Yes, Ontario allows you to apply for a Special Permit (temporary permit), which is valid for a short period.

This allows you to:

• Move the vehicle for repairs.

• Drive it to a safety inspection facility.

• Transport it for appraisal.

You cannot fully register or plate the vehicle until you complete the safety inspection and get an SSC.

What Is a Safety Standards Certificate in Ontario?

A Safety Standards Certificate in Ontario proves your vehicle passed a required safety inspection.

This inspection, now part of the DriveON program, confirms that the vehicle meets minimum standards for critical components, including brakes, suspension, tires, lights, steering, and structural integrity.

The certificate is not a guarantee of future performance, but it is required for registration and licensing.

Do You Need a Safety Certificate to Put Plates on a Vehicle?

Yes—In Most Situations, You Need an SSC to Plate a Vehicle

To plate or register a used vehicle in Ontario, you must present a valid, unexpired Safety Standards Certificate.

This applies when:

• You are registering a used vehicle for the first time in your name.

• You purchased a vehicle—whether in a private sale or from a dealership—and are transferring ownership.

• The vehicle has been unplated for some time, and you want to plate it again.

• You are importing a vehicle from another province or country.

In all these cases, you must prove the vehicle is safe to operate under the Ministry of Transportation rules.

Situations Where a Safety Certificate Is NOT Required

Ontario provides a few limited exemptions. You do not need a Safety Standards Certificate when:

• Transferring a vehicle to your spouse

• Registering a used motorized snow vehicle (snowmobile)

• Registering an off-road vehicle (ORV)

• Registering a motor-assisted bicycle (moped)

• Registering a trailer

These categories are either exempt from standard safety inspection requirements for specific reasons or have their own distinct processes.

Buying a Car "As Is" — Can You Plate It Without a Safety?

Many used vehicles are sold “as is.”

This means:

• The seller is not providing a Safety Standards Certificate.

• You must complete an Ontario vehicle safety inspection before you can plate it.

• The vehicle cannot be driven legally before inspection unless you have a temporary permit.

If it fails, repairs are necessary before qualifying for an SSC.

What Happens If You Try to Plate a Car Without a Safety?

ServiceOntario will not issue licence plates or complete a registration without the required documents.

For most private used-vehicle transactions, the system will not let the clerk proceed unless the Safety Standards Certificate number is entered.

Trying to drive the vehicle without proper plates or registration can lead to:

• Fines

• Towing

• Invalid insurance coverage

How Long Is a Safety Certificate Valid?

A Safety Standards Certificate is valid for 36 days from the date of issue.

If you miss the 36-day deadline, you need a new DriveON inspection.

Can I Get Temporary Plates Without a Safety?

Yes, Ontario allows you to apply for a Special Permit (temporary permit), which is valid for a short period.

This allows you to:

• Move the vehicle for repairs.

• Drive it to a safety inspection facility.

• Transport it for appraisal.

You cannot fully register or plate the vehicle until you complete the safety inspection and get an SSC.

You cannot plate a Vehicle Without a Safety Certificate in Ontario

If your vehicle requires an SSC, you must complete a DriveON safety inspection and obtain a valid Safety Standards Certificate before you can register and plate it.

By law, all used vehicles must meet safety standards before they are plated and driven.

This helps protect drivers, passengers, and everyone on the road.