What documents are required to purchase a car?

Buying a car in Calgary requires preparing a number of documents to legalize the transaction and register the vehicle. Whether you are buying a car from a dealer or a private individual, here is a complete list of documents you will need.

1. Bill of Sale

For private transactions:

  • Standard Bill of Sale (template from the Alberta government):
  • Required fields:
  • Names, addresses, and signatures of the seller and buyer.
  • VIN (vehicle identification number).
  • Year, make, model, color.
  • Sale price.
  • Optional:
  • Mileage (odometer).
  • Condition of the vehicle (“as is” or with warranty).

For dealership transactions:

  • New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS): For new vehicles.
  • Safety Certificate: For used cars older than 12 years.

2. Proof of insurance

  • Car insurance policy: Must include:
  • Third-Party Liability (from $200,000 CAD).
  • Accident Benefits Coverage.
  • Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD).
  • “Pink Card”: Insurance certificate with owner details and validity period.

3. VIN and vehicle history check

  • Carfax/FAX-VIN report ($40–50 CAD):
  • Accidents, number of owners, recalls, mileage. - Lien Search through Personal Property Registry:
  • Cost: $10 CAD.
  • Outstanding debts may result in vehicle confiscation.

4. Technical documents

For vehicles from other provinces:

  • Out-of-Province Inspection:
  • Performed by a licensed service (cost: $150–275 CAD).
  • Brakes, suspension, and environmental standards are checked.

For salvage vehicles:

  • Inspection after restoration: Required for registration.

5. Registration documents

For new vehicles:

  • Dealer registration certificate: Contains the VIN, owner information, and technical specifications.

For used cars:

  • Previous owner's registration certificate: Transferred with the car.

6. Documents for registration with Alberta Registries

  1. ID: Alberta driver's license or passport.
  2. Proof of address: Utility bill or lease agreement.
  3. Fees:
  • Registration: From $84 CAD/year (passenger vehicles).
  • GST (5%): Payable on the value of the vehicle.

7. For commercial vehicles

  • Safety Fitness Certificate (SFC):
  • Required for transporting goods or passengers.
  • Issued after completing the Pre-Entry Program (course + test).
  • Cost: $150 CAD (new SFC), $110 CAD (renewal).

Tips

  • Use the services of registration centers (AMA, Registry Express) for help with documents.
  • Have your car checked by a mechanic: Spending $100–200 CAD can save you thousands on repairs.
  • Beware of “salvage” cars: They require additional inspection and have limited value.

Penalties for missing documents

  • Driving without registration: Up to $2,875 CAD].
  • Failure to pay GST: 10% penalty + interest for late payment.

Important: All documents must be originals or notarized copies. Don't ignore legal details – they will protect your investment!