Nunavut Vehicle Registration
Need to register a car in Nunavut or renew your plates? Whether you’re buying a vehicle, moving to Nunavut, or completing a renewal, this 2026 Motor Vehicles guide explains everything: required documents, fees, renewals, license plates, inspections, and insurance requirements.
Updated for 2026 with the latest Nunavut vehicle registration fees and rules.
How to Register a Car in Nunavut (Step-by-Step)
All vehicles in Nunavut must be registered with the Department of Economic Development and Transportation before they can be legally driven.
Steps to Register a Vehicle in Nunavut
- Obtain valid Nunavut auto insurance from a licensed insurer.
- Complete a Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection (for most used or out-of-territory vehicles).
- Visit a Motor Vehicles 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)
Nunavut 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 Nunavut VIN Check Report to confirm ownership, lien, or accident history.
Out-of-Territory Vehicle Registration in Nunavut
If you move to Nunavut, you must register your out-of-territory vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency.
Steps for Out-of-Territory Vehicles
- Obtain proof of Nunavut auto insurance.
- Complete a mechanical safety inspection.
- Provide proof of ownership (bill of sale, title, or registration).
- Register at a Motor Vehicles office with required documents.
Residency Requirements
To register in Nunavut, you must:
- Hold a valid Nunavut driver's licence (or apply for one)
- Establish permanent residence in the territory
- Provide proof of residence (lease, utility bill, etc.)
Nunavut License Plates
Nunavut features distinctive license plates with traditional Inuktitut symbols and Arctic design elements.
Standard Plates
- Blue and white design with Inuktitut characters
- Rear plate required only (for most passenger vehicles)
- Cost: $38
Personalized Plates
- Initial cost: $130
- Annual renewal: $52
- 2–7 characters allowed
Specialty Plates
- Options include organization or charity plates (fees vary)
How to Renew Your Nunavut Vehicle Registration (2026)
All registrations must be renewed annually before expiry.
Renewal Steps
- Motor Vehicles sends renewal notice before expiry.
- Choose renewal method: in person or by mail.
- Provide current registration and proof of insurance.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Receive new registration certificate and validation sticker.
Renewal Methods
- In person: At a Motor Vehicles office
- By mail: Return renewal form with payment
Grace Period
15-day grace period allowed, but late fees may apply.
Nunavut Vehicle Safety Inspections
A safety inspection is required for:
- All out-of-territory 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: $65–$95.
VIN Check & Vehicle History Reports
Running a Nunavut 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 Nunavut
Auto insurance is mandatory to register a vehicle.
- Proof of valid insurance required (pink slip)
- Must be issued by a licensed Nunavut provider
- Minimum liability coverage: $200,000
- Policy must match the registered owner
Taxes on Vehicle Registration in Nunavut
- 5% GST applies to all vehicle purchases.
- Calculated on purchase price or Canadian Red Book wholesale value (whichever is higher).
Family Gift Exemption
- 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 Motor Vehicles.
- 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 Nunavut
- Antique Vehicles: Reduced fee ($53), limited use.
- All-Terrain Vehicles: Special registration requirements for ATVs and snowmobiles.
- Commercial Vehicles: Fees based on gross weight.
- Government Vehicles: Fee exemptions apply.
Motor Vehicles Office 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 Nunavut website.
Final Checklist Before Registering Your Vehicle
- Register a used vehicle: within 30 days of purchase
- Register an out-of-territory 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 Nunavut Vehicle History Report to confirm your car’s history and avoid costly surprises.
Contact Information
Vehicle Registration Services
Motor Vehicles
Government of Nunavut Motor Vehicles portal
Online Services
Customer Service Line