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Transfer Plates to a New Car in Alberta: Complete Guide for 2025

Can You Transfer License Plates to Another Person in Alberta?

License plate transfer to someone else in Alberta isn’t possible and you mustn’t allow anyone to keep your licence plate when selling your vehicle. However, you can transfer your plates to a new car as long as the plate registration is valid. If you have a new vehicle and would like to transfer your licence plate in Alberta, you will need to show:

Proof of valid insurance
Your driver’s licence
Proof of ownership for the new vehicle

How to Transfer Car Registration in Alberta

If you want to transfer your car registration to a new car in Alberta, you’ll need to visit a registry agent and show:

Proof of Ownership Document: such as a bill of sale or a lease agreement.
Proof of Valid Insurance Coverage: like a pink card, showing active coverage for your vehicle with an insurance company.
An Acceptable Identification Proof: A driver’s licence or another valid photo ID.
New Vehicle Information Statement: If you’ve purchased a new vehicle, you should bring the NVIS provided by your dealer.

If either the current registration or the ownership document is under two names, then both parties should be present to complete the registration. If one of them can’t be present, they must provide a notarized letter of consent authorizing the transfer.

If you’re changing the registration to the estate of a deceased, you’ll need to provide a legal will to complete the transfer.

How Much Does it Cost to Transfer Vehicle Registration in Alberta?

The cost to transfer registration in Alberta is $28, including goods and services taxes (GST). Additional fees may include:

93$ if you need a new licence plate.
$245 for a personalized licence plate, if you want one.
$15 to $25 for lien checks (optional).

To avoid delay penalties, complete the registration transfer within 14 days of purchase. To learn more about the updated pricing, we recommend checking with a registry agent in Alberta.

Can Licence Plates Be Transferred to Another Person?

You can’t transfer your licence plate to another person in Alberta. However, if you get a new vehicle, you can transfer the registration of your vehicle to your new one, as long as both vehicles are registered under the same name. If you’re not able to be present for your vehicle registration transfer, you can authorize someone else to complete the process on your behalf. This person should have:

The Authorization for Vehicle Services form, which you can download from the Alberta government website.
A copy of your valid government-issued ID.
Your vehicle bill of sale or lease agreement.

Can I Use My Plate on Another Vehicle in Alberta?

You can use your existing plate on another vehicle for up to 14 days as long as both vehicles are registered under the same name. During this period, you must carry proof of ownership for the new car and insurance documents showing that your car is covered. After the 14-day period, you must visit a registry agent in Alberta to transfer the vehicle registration officially. If you have a stolen plate, you must report it to the police immediately and visit a registry agent to request a replacement.

It’s important to note that the 14-day period to transfer your registration does not apply to commercial vehicles, as they must be registered immediately before hitting the road.

Is Vehicle Registration the Same as Ownership?

Vehicle registration and vehicle ownership aren’t the same because:

Vehicle Registration is the process of registering your vehicle with Alberta Transportation and obtaining a licence plate and registration certificate as proof of legal operation.
Vehicle Ownership means owning a vehicle and having a bill of sale or lease agreement to prove you’re the owner of the car.

For example, if you buy a brand-new vehicle in Alberta, you’ll receive a bill of sale as proof of ownership but to be able to drive your car, you need to legally register ownership of the vehicle with Alberta Transportation and obtain a licence plate. If you have an existing registration for a previous vehicle, then you can transfer it to your new vehicle as long as both vehicles are registered under the same name.

Do You Need a Bill of Sale to Register a Car in Alberta?

You need a bill of sale or any other form of ownership proof to register a car in Alberta. Acceptable proof of ownership forms include a bill of sale, lease agreement, New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS), and legal will if the vehicle is inherited.

You’ll also need valid insurance and government-issued ID to complete your vehicle registration. Without proper ownership documentation, insurance, and a valid photo ID, you might not be able to register your vehicle with Alberta Transportation.

How to Transfer Your Registration and Insurance to a New Car

If you’re replacing your car, you can transfer your registration and insurance to your new car. Learn how to complete your car transfer by following these steps:

Contact your insurance company to update your policy and get a new pink card.
Bring proof of ownership like a bill of sale or lease agreement, safety standards certificate, and a valid photo ID.
Visit a registry agent and provide your existing licence plate or request a personalized plate and pay the transfer fees.
After the vehicle transfer process is complete, you’ll get a new registration certificate, ensuring your plate is linked to your new vehicle.

How Long Do You Have to Switch Insurance on a New Car in Alberta?

You have two weeks to update your insurance when purchasing a new vehicle in Alberta. Your insurance policy may cover your new car during this period but you should review your policy first to ensure you have this option. You should contact your insurer once you get a new car to update your policy according to your new car’s requirements and ensure you aren’t missing out on coverage.

If you don’t update your insurance policy after two weeks, you’ll be driving without valid insurance coverage, which can lead to fines and penalties.

How Much Does it Cost to Transfer Insurance to Another Car?

Mostly, you won’t pay any fees for transferring your insurance to another vehicle but your insurance company will recalculate your premium based on the new car. Factors like the vehicle’s value, safety features, and risk level may cause your insurance rate to increase or decrease, and you’ll be requested to pay the difference if your premium changes. Many insurance companies charge an administrative fee of $25 to $50 for policy changes.

Can I Drive a Car I Just Bought Without Plates in Alberta?

If you have existing plates, you can transfer them to your new vehicle and drive for up to 14 days, as long as both vehicles are registered under the same name. However, driving without plates in Alberta can lead to hefty fines and penalties if you get stopped.

Visit a registry agent as soon as possible to complete the registration and obtain valid plates.

Vehicle Registration Renewal in Alberta

Alberta Vehicle registration renewal is required to keep your vehicle legally registered and roadworthy. The renewal period is based on the expiry date listed on your current registration and follows a monthly schedule based on your last name.

Renew Your Registration Online Now

FAQs

How long do I have to transfer my registration after buying a car?

You have 14 days to transfer your vehicle registration after buying a new car. During this period, you can use your existing licence plate as long as both vehicles are registered under your name. You’ll have to carry proof of ownership and valid insurance documents to avoid fines or penalties.

I bought another vehicle – What are my options for registration?

If you have a vehicle registration under your name, you can transfer your existing licence plate to your new car.
If you don’t have an existing licence plate, you’ll have to register your car and obtain new plates.
If you want a personalized licence plate, you can apply for one and pay additional fees.

What happens to my existing licence plate?

You can transfer your existing licence plate to your new vehicle as long as both vehicles are registered under the same name. You can also keep it with you for future use till you buy a new car. If you no longer need it, you can return it to a registry agent, in some cases, you can be eligible for a registration refund.

Can I transfer my Alberta vehicle registration to a different province?

You can’t transfer your Alberta vehicle registration to another province because each province has its regulations and procedures for vehicle registration. So, if you’re moving out of Alberta, you should contact the motor vehicle registration authority in your new province to learn about their specific requirements. After successfully registering your car, you should cancel your Alberta registration and return your plates to avoid unnecessary fees.

Can I transfer my Alberta vehicle registration if I’ve recently changed my name?

Yes, you can transfer your Alberta vehicle registration provided that you’ve updated your identification and legal documents to reflect your new name. You’ll also need to update your insurance policy with your new name then visit a registry agent with legal proof of your name change to start the transfer process.

Can I drive a car without insurance if I just bought it in Canada?

You can’t drive a car without insurance in Canada because it’s illegal in every province. Before hitting the road with your new vehicle, you should get auto insurance that at least meets the minimum requirements for your province.

Can I use an old licence plate in Alberta?

You can use your old licence plate and vehicle registration for your new car in Alberta provided that you own both cars and that they are registered under your name. You have up to 14 days to use the old plates on the new vehicle while carrying proof of valid insurance and proof of ownership.

It’s important to note that the 14-day period does not apply to commercial vehicles, which must be registered before they can be legally driven.

Can you transfer licence plates to a family member in Alberta?

Your standard licence plates can’t be used by anyone but you and can’t be transferred to a family member. However, personalized plates can be transferred to immediate family members, including spouse, parent, child, or sibling. To transfer a personalized licence plate in Alberta, both parties must visit a registry agent to complete the transfer.

Do you get money back for returning licence plates in Alberta?

Yes, in Alberta, you may be eligible for a refund of the unused portion of your registration fee if you cancel your vehicle registration and return your licence plates. The refund will be processed and mailed to you within 4 to 6 weeks of cancelling your registration.