Waterloo Regional Police remind drivers to renew their licence plates even though they are now free of charge.
In March, the Ontario government did away with the licence plate renewal fee saving drivers $120 a year, but the actual renewal process is still required in the province.
Drivers must still renew their vehicles registration, even though there is no fee, and no sticker is required on their plate.
Waterloo Regional Police Staff Sergeant, Scott Griffiths from the Traffic Services Unit, warns motorists that they could face a serious fine of up to $500 if they fail to renew their plate.
“I think there’s a little bit of confusion when our officers stop people for not having a current valid permit or licence plate. They are still confused as to why they are having to do this anymore,” Griffiths said.
“It may not cost anything, but you are still required to go online and renew your registration.”
Griffiths said there are two ways that drivers can be fined under the Highway Traffic Act.
“One is called a Part 1 Provincial offence notice which is a ticket that you would normally receive on the side of the road. Those have a set fine, and nothing has changed when it comes to licence plate validation,” Griffiths said.
“Although the government refunded and is no longer charging validation fees for vehicles, you are still obliged to go online or go into a ServiceOntario office and renew your ownership, and validation of you licence plate to show that it is current. If you are stopped, you could be given a $110 ticket.”
If found to repeating or consistently disobeying the offence, Griffiths said drivers can be fined by a Part 3 summons and those fines can be up to $500 or above.
Expiry typically falls on the owner’s birthday and it’s their responsibility to renew their validation.
To get emails, texts or phone calls 60-30 days before an expiry, the province has a digital reminder service available.
“Keeping you licence plates up to date serves a very important purpose in the province,” Griffiths said.
“It helps keep track of ownerships and helps us to ensure your vehicle isn’t being operated improperly."
Ontario drivers can renew their licence plates at a ServiceOntario location, online or by mail.
