If you’re using your vehicle for business purposes within the province of Ontario then it may not be registered the same as a personal vehicle can is. If you need to register a commercial vehicle in Ontario, and aren’t sure exactly what you need to do in order to complete the process, here’s some more information on how to go about getting your work vehicle registered.

What is defined as a commercial vehicle?

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO), which is the regulating body for vehicles in Ontario, defines a commercial vehicle as a truck or highway tractor with a gross weight of more than 4,500 KGs, a tow truck or a bus with seating capacity for ten or more passengers.

Speed Limitations

Commercial vehicles may be subject to speed limiters for driving. This technology caps the speed these vehicles can go to 105 km/hour, and applies to vehicles that were built after December 31, 1994, are equipped with an electronic control module or has a manufacturers gross weight rating of 11,794 kg or more.

Safety Requirements

A commercial vehicle must pass a safety inspection same as any other vehicle on the road. Owners are responsible for ensuring the vehicles are well maintained and, if anything goes wrong, must fix them as needed.

Safety Inspections

In order to keep your commercial vehicle registration up to date, your vehicle will be subject to regular safety inspections. These inspections can be done on an annual or semi-annual basis, but there may be more maintenance or upkeep required in between these inspections. These safety inspections are a requirement under law, and your vehicle must pass them in order to remain on the road. If your vehicle fails an inspection, you can request to have it re-inspected for free within 10 days if brought back to the same inspection station.

Can anyone drive a commercial vehicle?

While the commercial vehicle needs to be deemed safe to be on the road, the person driving it must also be registered to do so. Each operator of a commercial vehicle must have a CVOR certificate, which stands for Commercial Vehicle Operator Registration.

In order to get a CVOR certificate, an operator must do the following

• Complete the application form
• Provide proof of legal name
• Pay the $250 registration fee
• Pass the written test (if based in Ontario)

The CVOR certificate must be renewed each year, and operators must renew their certificate at least 15 days before the expiry date.

Other Important Information

If you’re using a vehicle for commercial purposes you will have to inform your insurance company and they will adjust your policy accordingly. You’ll also want to make sure your drivers are trained and insured so they are operating the vehicles properly.

You’ll also need to pay fees for license plate stickers every year, same as you would for your personal vehicles. When registering your vehicle with the MTO you’ll need to provide proof of ownership and insurance in order to get the yearly license plate stickers.

Commercial vehicles are registered with the MTO like any personal vehicle is within the province of Ontario, however there are additional safety and operator requirements to stay up to date on ensuring your vehicle can stay on the road.