Nov 30, 2023
Do you need a used vehicle information package to sell your car?
Ontario requires a document called the used vehicle information package (UVIP) if you sell or buy a used car.
This document ensures the buyer knows the car's history, liens, and other important information. It’s an essential component for making an informed vehicle purchase.
This blog contains everything you need about Ontario's used vehicle information package if you sell or buy a preowned vehicle. Learn about what it is, its rules, costs, when you'll need it, and what to do with your Ontario car insurance during the process.
What's on this page:
What is the used vehicle information package (UVIP)?What is included in the used vehicle information package?
Is a used vehicle information package mandatory in Ontario?
How much is the used vehicle information package?
Are there used vehicle information package exemptions?
Can the buyer purchase a used vehicle information package?
What do I do with the completed used vehicle information package?
Can I register a vehicle without the UVIP?
What’s the difference between the used vehicle information package and Carfax?
What do I do if a used vehicle information package is damaged or has the wrong information?
Used Vehicle Information Package FAQs
What is the used vehicle information package (UVIP)?
When buying or selling a pre-owned vehicle in Ontario, getting a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) is mandatory. This document contains important details about the car's history and condition. It’s beneficial in private sales.
The UVIP ensures a fair and transparent transaction by providing information to buyers and sellers. The vehicle history report contains essential information like registration history, outstanding liens, and recorded odometer readings. With this information, potential buyers can make informed decisions about the vehicle's condition and history.
Sellers can get a UVIP package from the government and complete it before giving it to the buyer. Alternatively, the buyer can purchase a UVIP before the sale or when registering vehicle ownership at a ServiceOntario center.
What is included in the used vehicle information package?
A proper vehicle information package will include the following information :
- Vehicle details (year, make, model, etc.)
- Vehicle registration history including all present and previous owners
- Vehicle lien information
- The average wholesale value of the vehicle
- Retail Sales Tax (RST) information
- Vehicle condition (Safety Standards Certificate)
- Bill of sale
Is a used vehicle information package mandatory in Ontario?
Yes, sellers of pre-owned vehicles in Ontario must provide buyers with a used vehicle information package. Under the Highway Traffic Act, not providing a UVIP to purchasers is an offence. You could face fines if you buy or sell a vehicle without a UVIP. You face a fine of $100 to $500 for the first offence. The penalty for a second conviction is $200 to $1000.
You must provide a UVIP when selling a car, van, light truck, motorhome, or motorcycle.
How much is the used vehicle information package?
A used vehicle information package costs $20. You can pay by credit card (VISA, MasterCard) and Interac.
You will need the VIN or licence plate number, your Ontario driver’s licence or RIN, or your name and address to order. It can also be purchased in person at ServiceOntario and issued the same day if you want to expedite the process.
Are there used vehicle information package exemptions?
There are specific instances when you do not need a used vehicle information package. You do not need a UVIP if :
- You are transferring ownership between family members.
- You are buying a pre-owned car from a registered used car dealer.
- You sold your vehicle outside of Ontario.
- You are donating your vehicle to a registered charity (check the Canadian Income Tax Act to confirm).
- The vehicle is a prize for a registered raffle or lottery.
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Can the buyer purchase a used vehicle information package?
If the seller still needs to provide the used vehicle information package, it is essential to communicate with them and ask for the document. You may want to declare in the agreement who will take care of the UVIP – in that case, you could obtain one.
If the seller is facing difficulties getting the UVIP, it is recommended that they seek guidance on how to proceed from the appropriate authorities or ServiceOntario.
What do I do with the completed used vehicle information package?
The vehicle seller must provide the buyer with the used vehicle information package. You are to give the buyer the vehicle portion of the owner's permit. The seller keeps the plate portion.
A signed UVIP is required for car registration with ServiceOntario. It acts as a legal bill of sale and must be signed by both the buyer and seller to be considered valid.
Can I register a vehicle without the UVIP?
UVIP is essential for vehicle registration in Ontario. It provides history details and is vital for used vehicle transactions. If you need UVIP, contact the authorities or ServiceOntario for accurate information on alternative processes.
What’s the difference between the used vehicle information package and Carfax?
The UVIP and Carfax are two different things. You need a used vehicle information package to purchase the used car. Carfax is an optional report you can buy for a fee.
Carfax and CarProof provide a vehicle history report. It gives you information about:
- If the car has been in an accident.
- If the car has been stolen.
- If there are safety recalls on the vehicle.
- If there is a lien on the car.
What do I do if a used vehicle information package is damaged or has the wrong information?
To sell a used vehicle, you need an undamaged information package with an unaltered serial number and an attached tear-off stub on page 1. Contact the seller if the information package is damaged.
If there are any errors in the vehicle information package, contact ServiceOntario toll-free at 1-800-387-3445 (Canada) or 416-235-2999 (GTA).
Used Vehicle Information Package FAQs
There are two places where you can get the UVIP. You can get it online and in person. You can order a UVIP online through Service Ontario. You can order a UVIP online. You will be mailed the package within five business days. You can also purchase a UVIP package at any Service Ontario centre in person.
To get a used vehicle information package, you will need either the vehicle identification number (VIN) or the license plate number. In addition to either your Ontario driver's license number or your full name and address.
There is no expiration date on the used vehicle information package. However, you should be wary of a UVIP over a few months old, as its information could need to be updated. A dishonest seller may even try to supply you with an older UVIP to conceal more recent changes to the history or condition of the vehicle. Spending another $20 to order a new UVIP could save you money and hassle.
A bill of sale is included on the last page of the UVIP document, but it does not supplement it.
Safeguard your pre-owned vehicle purchase with a UVIP
The Used Vehicle Information Package is a must-have guide for anyone investing in a used truck or vehicle. It provides crucial information about the vehicle's history and is mandatory.
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