Many Ontario drivers don’t realize that licence plate renewals aren’t automatic for everyone. Since July 2024, most passenger cars, motorcycles, mopeds and light commercial vehicles under 3,000 kilograms renew automatically as long as the driver has insurance and no unpaid fines or tolls.
But several types of vehicles are not included. Commercial and business vehicles, motorhomes, buses, snowmobiles and any vehicle made before 1983 still require manual renewal. Drivers with unpaid tickets or insurance issues are also removed from the automatic system.
If your vehicle doesn’t qualify, you must renew online or at ServiceOntario. The province sends reminders before your expiry date, but once your plate expires, it’s your responsibility to fix any issues and renew.
Fines for driving with expired plates start at $125 for personal vehicles and $400 for commercial ones. In serious cases, they can reach $1,000 for personal vehicles or up to $2,500 for commercial vehicles.
The province recommends checking your plate status online to avoid tickets and keep your vehicle legal on the road.
