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Against this backdrop, vehicle registration ensures that residents and visitors can explore British Columbia’s wonders safely and responsibly, enabling access to its breathtaking scenery, diverse cultures, and thriving economy.
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC): a provincial crown corporation responsible for providing vehicle insurance, driver licensing, and vehicle registration services in British Columbia. It is the sole provider of basic auto insurance in the province. Contact Information: Website: ICBC; Phone: 1-800-663-3051.
Service BC: a government agency that provides access to various government services, including vehicle registration-related services.
Contact Information: Website: Service BC; Phone: 1-800-663-7867.
Before registering a vehicle in British Columbia, it’s essential to meet specific residency and age criteria. Compliance with these is crucial as it forms the initial step in the vehicle registration process. Here’s what you need to know:
- Residency Criteria
- Hold a valid B.C. driver’s license.
- File yearly income taxes in B.C.
- Hold B.C. medical coverage.
- Residency Verification
- If you’ve recently moved to B.C., switch over your driver’s license and begin filing taxes in the province before registering your vehicle.
- Provide documents such as utility bills or a rental agreement to demonstrate residency.
- Age Requirement: Vehicle registration, licensing, or transfer applications are accepted in British Columbia for individuals who are at least 18 years old. For underage applicants, the following conditions should be met:
- Parental or guardian consent: The application must be co-signed by a parent or guardian.
- Alternative proof of independence: If obtaining a parent or guardian’s signature is not possible, underage applicants must prove to the ICBC that they are self-supporting and unable to get the signature, or that they are married. These provisions ensure that the responsibilities of vehicle ownership are managed appropriately while allowing some flexibility for minors who are financially independent or married. Source: B.C. Motor Vehicle Act.
Before registering a vehicle in British Columbia, prepare these documents in advance to streamline the registration process.ensure you have the necessary documentation ready. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Proof of Ownership
| Vehicle Registration Status | Required Documentation |
| Registered in Another Province or State | Current registration or title |
| Vehicles Previously Registered in B.C. | Transfer/Tax Form signed by the previous owner |
| Brand New Vehicles | Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO) or Certificate of Origin |
- Bill of Sale: Signed and dated bill of sale or purchase agreement if the vehicle is not registered in your name.
- Identification: Valid government-issued ID verifying your identity, address, and legal name. A B.C. driver’s license is preferred, but other forms of ID are acceptable.
- Proof of Insurance: Before registering your vehicle in British Columbia, you must obtain auto insurance through ICBC. Purchase a basic auto insurance or purchase optional coverage. An Autoplan broker can help you understand your options and recommend suitable coverage based on your situation.
Autoplan brokers, licensed by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), offer vehicle registration, licensing, and insurance services. With over 900 locations across BC, finding a nearby broker is convenient. Use the online broker locator on the ICBC website by entering your address or postal code to find the closest one. Many brokers allow online appointment booking for quicker service. Remember to bring necessary documentation like the bill of sale, out-of-province inspection report, proof of insurance, and your BC driver’s license. The broker will assist you throughout the registration process.
Here are the basic steps for vehicle registration in BC:
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the Application for Vehicle Registration (APV9T) with details such as VIN, year, make, model, and registered owner’s information.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect necessary documents like bill of sale, out-of-province inspection certificate, vehicle import form, and proof of valid BC insurance.
- Submit Paperwork and Payment: Present completed application form, supporting documents, and payment for registration fees and taxes to ICBC.
- Review and Processing: Your Autoplan broker will review the application, process payment, and issue registration decal.
- Receive License Plates: Once registration is complete, you’ll receive license plates for your vehicle.
| Fee Type | Description | Amount |
| Registration Fee | Administrative costs for registering the vehicle. Ranges from $30-90 based on vehicle type. | Cars, SUVs, and light trucks: $53; Motorcycles: $30 |
| PST | 7% Provincial Sales Tax (PST) on purchase price for new vehicles. For used vehicles, PST is on depreciated value. | Based on purchase price or value |
| Recycling Fees | Fees for sustainable disposal and recycling programs. Passenger cars: $35; Motorcycles: $10. | $35 (cars), $10 (motorcycles) |
Can I register a vehicle in British Columbia if I’m not a resident?
No, vehicle owners must meet residency requirements, including holding a valid B.C. driver’s license, filing income taxes in B.C., and having B.C. medical coverage.What if my vehicle fails the safety inspection?
If your vehicle fails the safety inspection, you’ll need to address any issues or defects identified by the inspector before it can pass. Once repaired, you can obtain a valid inspection report and proceed with registration.Are there any exemptions from the safety inspection requirement?
Vehicles previously registered in B.C. may be exempt from inspection if registration lapsed for less than one year. New vehicles purchased from a dealer in B.C. are also exempt. However, an inspector can require an inspection if deemed necessary.What types of optional auto insurance coverage can I purchase?
Optional coverage includes collision (for crash damage), comprehensive (for non-collision incidents like theft or fire), and vehicle damage deductible waiver (waives collision claim deductible).Can I renew my vehicle registration online?
Yes, you can renew your vehicle registration online through the ICBC website for policies expiring within 44 days Alternatively, you can renew in-person at an Autoplan broker office or by mail. Certain policies and vehicles, like jointly owned vehicles, leased vehicles, and expired policies, are ineligible for online renewal.The most comprehensive Automotive Data & Analytics
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