Documents Needed to Sell a Car in Ontario

Selling a car in Ontario involves a series of necessary steps, paperwork, and legal duties. Here’s a breakdown of the important documents needed to sell a car in Ontario privately. This ensures a smooth and legally binding transaction:

Vehicle Ownership

The cornerstone document is the vehicle ownership, also known as the car’s title or registration. This document serves as proof of your ownership and contains important information such as the vehicle identification number, make, model, year, plate number, driver’s license number, and a transfer application on the reverse side. Without the vehicle ownership, selling the car is impossible. If you find yourself without this document, you can obtain a replacement at MTO offices.

Used Vehicle Information Package

The UVIP is an important document for anyone looking to sell a used vehicle in Ontario. It contains important information like the vehicle’s registration history, whether there are any outstanding liens, past ownership details, recorded mileage, and if the vehicle has a rebuild title. It’s a legal requirement for sellers in Ontario to provide a UVIP to potential buyers. You can purchase a UVIP from any MTO offices.

Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report is also needed when selling a car in Ontario. Prospective buyers usually want detailed historical information about the vehicle before making a purchase. While the UVIP gives a broad overview, buyers can obtain a more detailed report from various online sources. An online history report costs about $50.

Safety Standards Certificate

In Ontario, a Safety Standards Certificate is a document required to plate a vehicle. This certificate ensures that the car meets the minimum safety standards set by the province. It covers essential safety components such as brakes, lights, tires, steering, and more. Without an SSC, you can sell a car AS IS in Ontario, but you cannot get plates for it. You can get a safety certificate from any service centers (mechanics) licensed by MTO.

Bill of Sale

A bill of sale is a legal document that records the transaction between a seller and a buyer. It contains details such as the purchase price, vehicle identification information, names and signatures of both parties, and the sale date. When selling privately, you can use a bill of sale from the UVIP package or acquire one from online sources.

Service Records and Maintenance History

Furnishing the buyer with service records and maintenance history can increase the value of your vehicle. It shows that the car has been properly maintained and looked after throughout its life. These records can include receipts for repairs, oil changes, inspections, and any other services.

Vehicle Insurance

Before the sale, ensure that your car has valid insurance coverage. This protects you and the buyer in case of accidents or damages that may occur during test drives.

Valid Identification

Both the seller and the buyer must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license, during the sale transaction at the MTO offices. This helps verify the identities of the parties involved and is necessary for completing the paperwork.

Payment Documentation

Make sure to document the payment method and amount received for the sale of the vehicle. Whether it’s cash, a certified cheque, or electronic transfer, keep records of the transaction for your records and for tax purposes.

Lien Release

A lien release is a document released by financial institutions or the lien holder that holds an interest in the vehicle. If you make monthly payments for your vehicle, your vehicle will have a lien registered against it. It’s against the law to sell a vehicle with a lien. After you pay off the lien, the lien holder will issue a lien release form within 2 weeks. After that, your vehicle is considered lien-free, and you can sell it.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary documents in order, you can sell your car in Ontario with confidence and comply with legal requirements. If you prefer a convenient and hassle-free selling experience consider Sell My Car, we only require the vehicle ownership and your driver license. Remember to double-check the specific regulations and requirements, as they may vary depending on the type of vehicle and other factors.