Northwest Territories Vehicle Registration
Need to register a car in the Northwest Territories or renew your plates? Whether you’re buying a vehicle, moving to NWT, or completing a renewal, this 2026 Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) guide explains everything: required documents, fees, renewals, license plates, inspections, and insurance requirements.
Updated for 2026 with the latest Northwest Territories vehicle registration fees and rules.
How to Register a Car in the Northwest Territories (Step-by-Step)
All vehicles in the Northwest Territories must be registered with Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) before they can be legally driven.
Steps to Register a Vehicle in NWT
- Obtain valid NWT auto insurance from a licensed insurer.
- Complete a Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection (for most used or out-of-territory vehicles).
- Visit a DVS issuing office in person.
- Provide required documents (see list below).
- Pay registration fees and applicable taxes.
- Receive your vehicle registration, license plates, and validation sticker.
Required Documents
- Valid driver’s licence or government-issued ID
- Proof of auto insurance (pink slip)
- Bill of Sale or transfer of ownership form
- Previous registration/title (for used vehicles)
- Safety Inspection certificate (valid for 30 days)
- NVIS (New Vehicle Information Statement) for new vehicles
- Payment for registration fees and taxes (5% GST)
- VIN history check (recommended before registration to confirm liens, theft, or accident history)
Northwest Territories Vehicle Registration Fees (2026)
Vehicle Type
Annual Fee
Additional cost: 5% GST applied at registration.
Before paying, it’s smart to check your vehicle’s background with a Northwest Territories VIN Check Report to confirm ownership, lien, or accident history.
Out-of-Province Vehicle Registration in NWT
If you move to the Northwest Territories, you must register your out-of-province vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency.
Steps for Out-of-Province Vehicles
- Obtain proof of NWT auto insurance.
- Complete a mechanical safety inspection.
- Provide proof of ownership (bill of sale, title, or registration).
- Register at a DVS issuing office with required documents.
Residency Requirements
To register in NWT, you must:
- Hold a valid NWT driver’s licence (or apply for one)
- Establish permanent residence in the territory
- Provide proof of residence (lease, utility bill, etc.)
Northwest Territories License Plates
The NWT is famous for its polar bear-shaped license plates, one of the most recognizable designs in Canada.
Standard Plates
- Polar bear-shaped blue and white design
- Rear plate required only (for most passenger vehicles)
- Cost: $35
Personalized Plates
- Initial cost: $125
- Annual renewal: $50
- 2–7 characters allowed
Specialty Plates
- Options include organization or charity plates (fees vary)
How to Renew Your Northwest Territories Vehicle Registration (2026)
All registrations must be renewed annually before expiry.
Renewal Steps
- DVS sends renewal notice before expiry.
- Choose renewal method: online, in person, by mail, or by phone.
- Provide current registration and proof of insurance.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Receive new registration certificate and validation sticker.
Renewal Methods
- Online: Government of NWT website
- In person: At a DVS office
- By mail: Return renewal form with payment
- By phone: Automated renewal service available
Grace Period
15-day grace period allowed, but late fees may apply.
NWT Vehicle Safety Inspections
A safety inspection is required for:
- All out-of-province vehicles
- Used vehicles changing ownership
- Reconstructed or rebuilt vehicles
Inspection validity: 30 days
Covers: brakes, suspension, tires, steering, lights, emissions, frame and body condition.
Average cost: $60–$90.
VIN Check & Vehicle History Reports
Running a Northwest Territories VIN Check before registration helps confirm:
- Ownership and authenticity
- Accident and collision history
- Outstanding liens
- Theft records
- Recalls and odometer readings
A VIN report protects you from registration delays, hidden liens, and legal disputes.
Insurance Requirements in NWT
Auto insurance is mandatory to register a vehicle.
- Proof of valid insurance required (pink slip)
- Must be issued by a licensed NWT provider
- Minimum liability coverage: $200,000
- Policy must match the registered owner
Taxes on Vehicle Registration in NWT
- 5% GST applies to all vehicle purchases.
- Calculated on purchase price or Canadian Red Book wholesale value (whichever is higher).
Family Gift Exemption
Vehicles transferred between immediate family members may be exempt if:
- Gift transfer form is completed
- Both parties present ID and proof of relationship
Quick Tips for a Smooth Registration
- Complete your inspection within 30 days of registering.
- Confirm insurance coverage before visiting DVS.
- Bring multiple payment methods.
- Clear all outstanding fines before attempting renewal.
- Keep your registration and sticker in your vehicle at all times.
Special Vehicle Types in NWT
- Antique Vehicles: Reduced fee ($51), limited use.
- Farm Vehicles: Discounted registration for agricultural vehicles.
- Commercial Vehicles: Fees based on gross weight.
- Government/Diplomatic Vehicles: Fee exemptions apply.
Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) Locations
Office Hours
Most offices: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Services Offered
- Vehicle registration and renewal
- Plate issuance and replacement
- Ownership transfers
- Safety inspection scheduling
Find the nearest location on the Government of Northwest Territories website.
Final Checklist Before Registering Your Vehicle
- Register a used vehicle: within 30 days of purchase
- Register an out-of-province vehicle: within 30 days of residency
- Safety inspection certificate: valid for 30 days
- Insurance must be active before registration
- Clear all outstanding fines before renewal
Ready to register your vehicle?
Start with a Northwest Territories Vehicle History Report to confirm your car’s history and avoid costly surprises.
Contact Information
Vehicle Registration Services
Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS)
Government of NWT Driver and Vehicle portal
Online Services
Customer Service Line