How to Buy a Used Car in Ottawa

If you are in Ottawa, Ontario and need to buy a used car, you will find that some of the process is similar to buying a used car in the United States. When you buy a used car in Canada, one of the major differences is that you can get a "Used Vehicle Information Package," which details the history of the vehicle. It is similar to a CarFax report, with much more detail. It is an important part of Canadian car buying because it lists any liens on the vehicle, which you become liable for if you buy a car with a lien.

Instructions

1

Inspect the proposed vehicle or take it to a local mechanic for inspection. The Ontario Ministry of Transportation recommends asking for the "Used Vehicle Information Package" (UVIP). The UVIP delineates the registration history, lien information, market value and bills of sale. If you are buying a used car via a private seller, the seller is also required to have a UVIP.

2

Get a completed and signed bill of sale and vehicle permit transfer paper from the seller when you buy the used car. You must have these items, along with the UVIP, to register the vehicle in your name.

3

Locate the nearest Driver and Vehicle License Issuing Office by using the locator on the Service Ontario for Residents website. Take your bill of sale, UVIP and vehicle permit transfer paperwork to the local office. You will need to pay the retail tax on the used car, which is based on the larger of the sales price or the wholesale value.

4

Pay your licensing and permit fees. As of October 2010, the fee for a used car plate and permit is $20. If you are using plates you already own, the fee is $10. The validation sticker fee for your plate varies. You must present proof of auto insurance before the plates will be issued.