Selling or buying a used car in Ontario? Then you need to know about the used vehicle information package.
This document contains important information about the car, such as its history and ownership.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about the used vehicle information package in Ontario, including when you need it, what’s included, and how much it costs. We’ll also answer some of the most commonly asked questions about this document.
Table of Contents
What is the used vehicle information package (UVIP)?
The used vehicle information package (UVIP) is a paper needed for Ontario residents to sell a used car. It contains the vehicle’s description and history, as well as any outstanding liens or issues that need to be addressed. Sellers must buy and finish the document, which they then give to buyers. The UVIP aids purchasers in making an informed decision about purchasing a pre-owned automobile. It is available through the Government of Ontario.
What is included in the used vehicle information package?
The UVIP contains a complete history of the vehicle, including:
- Information about the vehicle, including year, make, model, color, body type, number of cylinders, and power
- The vehicle’s information linked to the plate number
- Whether or not it has had any damage
- In Ontario, vehicle registration history is available and includes the city of residence and odometer reading of all current and previous owners
- Information about vehicle liens, such as whether a third party is owed money or whether a lien claimant has the right to the automobile, or the amount
- The vehicle’s average wholesale value – the minimum value on which Retail Sales Tax (RST) will be charged
- Vehicle condition
- Bill of sale
- Driver suspensions
- Whether the car is physically unfit or has not been granted a Safety Standards Certificate
How much does a UVIP cost in Ontario?
The price of a used vehicle information package is $20. You can pay by credit card (VISA, MasterCard) or Interac. The seller is responsible for purchasing and delivering the package to the buyer.
Where can you get a used vehicle information package?
The UVIP is available in two ways: online and in person. You can purchase a used vehicle information package online through Service Ontario, or you can visit a Service Ontario centre.
What do I need to get a UVIP?
You’ll need the following items to order a used car information package:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN) or the licence plate number of the car
- Your Ontario driver’s licence number or registrant identification number (RIN) and/or
- Your name and address
Who is required to purchase a used vehicle information package?
A UVIP must be obtained in order to sell any car, van, light truck, motor-home, or motorcycle.
When a used car is being sold and purchased, the seller is obligated to obtain a Used Vehicle Information Package. This is required by the Highway Traffic Act, and failing to provide a UVIP is considered an offence.
Depending on whether it’s your first or second offense, you could face fines ranging from $100 to $1000.
How long is the used vehicle information package valid?
The UVIP has no expiry date.
Is a used vehicle information package mandatory?
Yes, used vehicle information packages are mandatory when selling a pre-owned vehicle in Ontario. However, there are some exceptions to this.
According to the Ontario government’s website, you may sell or transfer ownership of a vehicle without this form if:
- You are buying a previously owned vehicle from a registered used vehicle dealer
- It’s a transaction between taxi license holders
- If the sale is between family members
- The vehicle was sold outside of Ontario
- It is a charitable donation to a licensed religious or benevolent organization
- The vehicle is sold or transferred to a hospital, local service board, municipality, school board, university, or college
- It is a prize for registered lotteries or raffles
What if I don’t have a used vehicle information package?
If you’re buying or selling a used car, but there’s no UVIP, then you won’t be able to register your new (or used) vehicle with ServiceOntario. You’ll need both documents for that process – ownership and used vehicle information package.
Is Carfax the same as UVIP?
No, Carfax is not the same as a used vehicle information package. A Carfax report is an important document to have when buying or selling a used car, but it does not replace the need for a UVIP.
A Carfax report includes all of the information contained in a UVIP, such as accidents and liens, as well as other important data like service records and title history. However, it does not include ownership history or registration history.
Does a used vehicle information package include Carfax?
No, the used vehicle information package does not include Carfax. A used car seller is obligated to provide you with a used vehicle information package in Ontario. While it includes some important details about your used car’s history like accidents and liens, there are other things that aren’t included, such as service records and title history.
Does UVIP show accidents?
No, the UVIP will not display any accidents on the report. For a more thorough report, you may get a vehicle history report through Carfax for around $40.
