Buying or selling a used car in Ontario? Then there’s one document you absolutely need to understand: the used car information package (UCIP). Whether you’re a private seller trying to list your vehicle or a buyer ensuring you’re making a sound purchase, the UCIP is a legal requirement and a practical necessity.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the used car information package—what it is, why it’s important, what it includes, and how to get one. Let’s make your vehicle transaction smoother, more transparent, and 100% compliant with Ontario law.
What Is a Used Car Information Package (UCIP)?
The used car information package is a document required by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) whenever a privately owned vehicle is being sold. It provides accurate, government-issued details about the car’s registration history, lien status, and current ownership.
Key Point: The UCIP must be provided by the seller to the buyer in every private used car sale in Ontario. It is not required for dealer-to-customer sales.
Why the Used Car Information Package Matters
✅ Legal Requirement
Under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, it’s mandatory for private sellers to provide the UCIP before completing the sale. Failure to do so could result in legal consequences or a voided sale.
✅ Transparency for Buyers
The UCIP helps buyers verify key facts about the car—its ownership history, whether it has any liens, and if it’s legally registered.
✅ Essential for Transfer of Ownership
The buyer will need information from the UCIP to register the vehicle in their name at a ServiceOntario location.
Who Needs a Used Car Information Package?
- Private Sellers: Required by law to provide it before finalizing the transaction.
- Private Buyers: Use it to verify vehicle details and complete the ownership transfer.
- New Vehicle Owners: Useful for peace of mind, even if you’re receiving a car as a gift.
- Estate Executors: When selling a vehicle from a deceased person’s estate.
What’s Included in a Used Car Information Package?
Here’s what you’ll find inside a UCIP:
1. Vehicle Details
- Year, make, model
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Plate number
- Colour
- Fuel type
2. Current Owner Information
- Registered owner’s name and address
- Date of purchase
3. Lien Information
- Any debts registered against the vehicle (through the Personal Property Security Registration system)
- Creditor’s name and contact details
- Loan type and amount
4. Registration History
- All previous registered owners in Ontario
- Date of each registration
5. Retail Sales Tax (RST) Information
- Estimated value of the car (used for calculating tax at the time of ownership transfer)
- Tax amount payable based on value or sale price (whichever is higher)
6. Bill of Sale Template
A blank form where the seller and buyer can write details of the sale including:
- Sale date
- Buyer and seller names
- Sale price
- Signatures
7. Instructions for Completing Ownership Transfer
- What to bring to ServiceOntario
- How to fill out the vehicle portion of the permit (ownership document)
Where and How to Get a Used Car Information Package
🏢 In Person at ServiceOntario
- Go to any ServiceOntario location
- Provide the license plate or VIN
- Pay the fee (currently $20)
- Receive the printed UCIP instantly
💻 Online via ServiceOntario Website
- Visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/order-used-vehicle-information-package
- Enter vehicle details
- Pay online via credit card
- UCIP is mailed to the registered owner’s address
⚠️ Only the current registered owner can order a UCIP.
Step-by-Step Guide for Sellers
- Order the UCIP
Visit ServiceOntario (in person or online) and get the package. - Review the Details
Check that the vehicle info, lien status, and owner history are correct. - Clear Any Liens
If there’s a loan, make sure it’s paid off and removed before the sale. - Complete the Bill of Sale
Use the included template to document the transaction properly. - Provide the UCIP to Buyer
It must be handed over before or at the time of sale. - Sign the Vehicle Permit (Part A)
Fill out the back of the ownership document.
Step-by-Step Guide for Buyers
- Ask for the UCIP Before Paying
Do not complete the sale unless you’ve reviewed the UCIP. - Check Vehicle History
Confirm that the seller is the legal owner and there are no liens. - Review the Estimated Value
Ontario applies sales tax on the greater of the sale price or the estimated value listed in the UCIP. - Fill Out the Bill of Sale
Ensure both parties sign and date it. - Go to ServiceOntario
Bring the UCIP, completed permit, bill of sale, and payment for tax and registration fees.
How the Used Car Information Package Helps Buyers
🔍 Verifies Legal Ownership
Protects against purchasing a stolen or improperly transferred vehicle.
💵 Identifies Liens
You don’t want to unknowingly inherit someone else’s car loan. The UCIP tells you if there’s a registered lien against the vehicle.
🚗 Ensures Accurate Vehicle History
Understanding who previously owned the car and how often it was sold helps you evaluate its condition and value.
📉 Helps in Price Negotiation
The UCIP includes an estimated vehicle value, which you can use to assess whether the asking price is fair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a UCIP needed if I’m giving my car as a gift?
A: Yes. You still need the UCIP, even if there’s no exchange of money. It helps complete the transfer of ownership.
Q: How long is the UCIP valid?
A: There is no specific expiry, but the information is most accurate if it’s recent. Try to use it within 30 days of issuance.
Q: What if I buy from a dealership?
A: UCIPs are only required for private sales. Dealerships are exempt.
Q: What if there’s a lien listed?
A: Contact the lender to confirm if it’s active. The seller should clear any liens before completing the sale.
Q: Can I order a UCIP for someone else’s car?
A: No. Only the registered owner can request a UCIP.
Tips to Avoid Common Pitfalls
❌ Don’t Rely on Verbal Agreements
Use the Bill of Sale included in the UCIP to document every transaction detail.
❌ Don’t Skip Checking the Lien Status
This is a crucial step. Unresolved liens stay attached to the vehicle—not the owner.
❌ Don’t Forget to Pay the Tax
The Ontario government calculates tax based on the higher of the sale price or the UCIP estimated value—be prepared.
Selling a Car Without a UCIP: What Can Go Wrong?
- Legal Liability: Selling without a UCIP is against the law in Ontario.
- Buyer Hesitation: Savvy buyers will walk away if you don’t have it.
- Registration Issues: The buyer can’t legally register the vehicle without the UCIP.
The Role of UCIP in Estate Vehicle Sales
If the owner has passed away and you are handling the estate:
- You must still request a UCIP.
- Provide a copy of the death certificate and proof of executor status when visiting ServiceOntario.
- This ensures legal and accurate transfer of ownership to the new buyer.
Cost of the Used Car Information Package
As of 2025, the cost of a UCIP is $20 CAD (subject to change). This fee is payable online or at a ServiceOntario center. It’s a small investment for the legal protection and clarity it provides.
Summary: Quick Checklist
| For Sellers | For Buyers |
|---|---|
| ✅ Order the UCIP | ✅ Ask for the UCIP |
| ✅ Review and confirm accuracy | ✅ Check for liens |
| ✅ Clear any outstanding liens | ✅ Confirm current owner info |
| ✅ Complete the bill of sale | ✅ Review estimated vehicle value |
| ✅ Sign the ownership permit | ✅ Bring all documents to register |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re buying or selling, the used car information package is a non-negotiable part of the private vehicle sales process in Ontario. It ensures transparency, legal compliance, and peace of mind for both parties.
Skipping the UCIP might seem like a shortcut—but it’s one that could lead to expensive complications down the road. Take the extra step, get the information, and make sure your transaction is smooth and safe.
