Buying and registering a car

Buying a car, especially a new one, is a significant investment. Before you buy, make sure that your income is sufficient to meet the financial obligations involved.

Many people find it more economical to buy a second-hand car. But before doing so:

• take the time to properly assess the car’s condition
• have it verified by a professional mechanic if necessary.

You can buy a used car from a car dealer or an individual. The classified sections of daily newspapers are full of cars for sale.

	PRACTICAL ADVICE
	Whether you are looking for a new or second-hand vehicle, find out about your rights and the verifications you are entitled to make by contacting the Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC - Consumer protection bureau). Before signing the sales contract for a car, read it carefully to make sure there are no hidden costs and that all the options and guarantees you have agreed upon with the vendor are included.

Registration

In Québec, all road vehicles must be registered, except for certain exemptions under the Highway Safety Code. To register your vehicle, go to a SAAQ office with required documents.

Registration for your vehicle is not free and must be renewed annually by the date specified. With your first registration, the SAAQ will give you a certificate which you must keep and a license plate which must be attached to the back of your vehicle. Thereafter, you simply need to pay the annual fee; the bill will be sent to your home by mail.

Liability insurance for property damage

Under the Automobile Insurance Act, all drivers who drive a vehicle on Quebec roads must have liability insurance. Liability insurance policies vary from one private insurance company to another. You might want to contact several companies and compare policies and prices. To ensure you get proper coverage, specify the use of the vehicle, i.e., business or leisure, and identify those authorized to drive your car.

Useful links

• Office de la protection du consommateur
• Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec - Vehicle Registration