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Written by Kayla Jane Barrie Updated on Feb 21, 2025 4 mins read

Blog Getting A Car Safety Inspection And Certificate In Ontario

Ontario Car Safety Inspection Guide

A car safety inspection is always worthwhile. Before investing in a vehicle or selling one, you should be aware of the vehicle's overall condition. To do this you can get a safety standards certificate.

Are you buying a used car or selling a used car in Ontario? You should know about getting a car safety inspection and getting a safety standards certificate. You’ll likely need one to complete the sale or get your vehicle on the road.

In this blog we provide you with a definition of the safety standard certificate. Learn about when you need a car safety inspection, where to get one and how it connects to your car insurance quote.

Three must know things about vehicle safety inspections

  • A safety standards certificate is required for obtaining a license plate in Ontario, regardless of whether the purchase was through a private sale or dealership.
  • It documents a vehicle's compliance with minimum safety standards but does not guarantee its overall condition or act as a warranty for used vehicles.
  • You can buy and register a used vehicle without a safety standards certificate.

What is a safety standard certificate?

A safety standards certificate is a document that outlines the health of a vehicle. You need it to get a license plate for a vehicle. The certificate proves a vehicle meets the minimum required safety standards in Ontario. The certificate does not guarantee the condition of the vehicle and it does not act as a warranty when you purchase a used vehicle.

Do I need a safety standard certificate?

You need a car safety standard certificate when you buy or sell a used vehicle through a private sale. You can buy a used vehicle and register it without a certificate. You cannot get plates for it without a safety standards certificate.

When do I need a car safety inspection in Ontario?

There are four instances when you need to get a car safety inspection. Here is when you need an inspection :

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Black car on side of the road

How much does a vehicle safety inspection cost?

The vehicle safety inspection cost depends on where you get the certificate. The cost of the inspection and certification is different at each Motor Vehicle Inspection Station. They set the price independently. Cost is not set by the government of Ontario. Shop around to find the shop that offers the best price.

Does the seller have to provide a safety standards certificate?

No. Private vehicle sellers do not have to provide you with a certificate. You can request one to be part of the sale. If the seller doesn’t provide a certificate, you will need to get one by getting the car inspected.

mechanic inspecting white car

Where can I get a vehicle safety standards inspection?

There are many locations in Ontario where you can get a safety standards certificate. Most mechanics and local auto shops offer the service. The inspection station must be licensed by the MTO. Locations will have a sign saying they have Motor Vehicle Inspection Station designation.

How do I get a safety standards certificate?

To get a certificate, your vehicle needs to pass the inspection. All vehicles must pass the Passenger/Light-Duty Vehicle Inspection Standard. Upon completion, you will receive the certificate.

What is part of the vehicle safety inspection checklist?

Vehicles go through a thorough inspection. The car safety inspection checklist includes these components :

  • Powertrain
  • Suspension
  • Brake System
  • Steering
  • Auxiliary equipment
  • Lamps
  • Electrical system
  • Body
  • Tires and wheels
  • Coupling devices
  • Road test

What happens if my vehicle doesn’t pass the car safety inspection?

If the vehicle doesn’t pass, the owner cannot register it. This means you cannot drive the vehicle until the repairs are complete, even if you have Ontario car insurance.

What are the reasons my car might fail a car safety inspection?

Here are some common reasons why a car might fail a safety certificate test in Ontario:

  • Brakes: Worn pads/shoes, leaking lines/callipers, faulty master cylinder, handbrake issues.
  • Steering: Worn components, steering wheel play, power steering fluid leaks.
  • Lights: Headlights not aligned, broken/burned-out bulbs, damaged reflectors.
  • Tires: Worn tread, uneven wear, damaged tires.
  • Body: Rust/corrosion, damaged panels, broken/missing windows.
  • Other: Exhaust leaks, worn wipers, damaged mirrors, faulty horn, safety belt issues, loose/missing components.

If you are planning to get a test done, always consult the Ontario Ministry of Transportation website or a certified inspection station for detailed information.

Car safety inspection FAQs

The inspection takes about 90 minutes to complete. It may take longer, depending on the location.

Yes. You can sell a used vehicle without the inclusion of a safety standards certificate. It is common for sellers to include it as part of the used vehicle information package. Without a certificate, buyers may be reluctant to make an offer.

The certificate is valid for 36 days after the inspection is complete. If you fail to register the vehicle within this time period you will need to re-do the inspection before you can register your vehicle.

No. Most minor issues will not prevent your vehicle from failing the test. You don’t have to worry about minor surface issues such as small rust spots, dents, or small windshield cracks.

Yes. You do not need a safety standards certificate if you are transferring vehicle ownership to your spouse.

No. A safety check is not the same as a safety standards certificate. A safety inspection only tests to ensure a car is safe to drive. The certificate inspection is more thorough. It also tests steering, braking, lights and more.

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