We still get complaints from members from time to time about incorrect enforcement by police in some areas with respect to the proper use of dealer plates, but these complaints are much more rare than they once were.

Personal Use

Personal use of dealer-owned “passenger-class” vehicles with dealer plates is absolutely legal but not on “commercial vehicles” (ie. cargo vans, ambulances etc.) where the cargo area is separate from the passenger compartment.

Dealer Plates may also be used on dealer-owned vehicles for all purposes related to the sale of the vehicle and this includes commercial vehicles.

Documents Needed!

The dealer plate is not restricted to use by the owner of the dealership. It may be used by anyone that has the permission of the dealership; that would include staff and potential buyers who have the vehicle for testing purposes.

Three documents must be with the vehicle whenever a dealer plate is used … not just when used for private purposes:

1. a true copy (meaning a clear copy of the front and back) of the permit for the dealer plate
2. the Insurance certificate (pink slip)
3. * a true copy of the vehicle permit.

* If the vehicle has recently been purchased, a copy of the Bill of Sale may be accepted by the police.

Please call the UCDA if you would like a handy wallet card you can show the police if you are stopped and asked about your use of the Dealer Plate.

Newer Developments

As of January 1, 2021:

• Dealer plates can be used on a light-duty commercial vehicle (ie. Pickup Trucks), that is part of a dealer’s inventory of motor vehicles and that is “loaded with goods” of a private nature, for private use, provided the manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the pickup truck does not exceed 3,400 kg (Reg 628). Pickup trucks displaying Dealer plates while being operated for private use may not tow another vehicle.

The MTO has also issued communications to the enforcement community to clarify that the current Dealer plate regulations support using a Dealer plate in the following situations:

• On a used motor vehicle being transported from auction with no vehicle registration permit, and
• While transporting a new unregistered motor vehicle where only the New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS) is present.

As always, if you are charged in circumstances you do not believe to be fair or accurate just give us a call at 416-231-2600 or 1-800-268- 2598. We have helpful documents you can show the crown prosecutor or the judge.