What is an “out-of-province inspection,” and do I need to undergo one?

Out-of-Province Inspection (OOP) is a mandatory technical inspection of a vehicle imported into Alberta from another Canadian province or from abroad. The purpose is to ensure that the vehicle meets the province's safety and environmental standards. In Calgary, this procedure is an integral part of the vehicle registration process. Let's take a look at who needs an inspection, how it is carried out, and what exceptions there are.

Why is an Out-of-Province Inspection necessary?

  • Safety: The inspection rules out serious technical defects (e.g., frame corrosion, faulty brakes).
  • Legal requirements: Without an inspection, it is impossible to obtain Alberta license plates.
  • Market protection: Alberta has banned the registration of vehicles with significant structural modifications (e.g., raised clearance without certification).

Who needs to undergo an inspection?

Mandatory:

  • Cars from other provinces: Even if they were purchased in British Columbia or Saskatchewan.
  • Imported cars: From the US or other countries.
  • Salvage cars: After restoration following an accident.

Exceptions:

  1. New cars: Purchased in Canada less than 90 days ago.
  2. Cars from BC, Saskatchewan, Manitoba: Up to 4 years old (previous registration certificate required).
  3. Trucks weighing over 11,794 kg: They require a commercial inspection, not an OOP.

Inspection process in Calgary

Step 1: Obtain a request form

  • Where: At any registration center (e.g., AMA, Southland Registrations).
  • Documents:
  • Proof of ownership (driver's license, passport).
  • Proof of ownership (purchase agreement, registration from another province).
  • Form cost: $9 CAD.

Step 2: Pass the inspection

  • Where: At a licensed service center (e.g., Venture Motorworks, Revolution Motors).
  • What they check:
  • Brakes, suspension, electronics, body, exhaust system.
  • Compliance with environmental standards.
  • No structural damage.
  • Duration: 2–3 hours.
  • Cost:
  • Passenger cars: ~$169 CAD.
  • Trucks: from $200 CAD.

Step 3: Fix any issues (if applicable)

  • Deadline: 10 days from the date of the initial inspection.
  • Re-inspection: $79–100 CAD.

Step 4: Register your vehicle

  • Deadline: 14 days after receiving the certificate.
  • Documents:
  • Inspection certificate.
  • Insurance.
  • Request form.

Penalties for violations

  • Late registration: The vehicle cannot legally drive on Alberta roads.
  • Driving without inspection: Fine of up to $2,875 CAD + confiscation of license plates.

Special features for Calgary

  • Local services:
  • Venture Motorworks: Specializes in OOP, offers repair assistance.
  • Auto Imports: Inspection for imported vehicles.
  • Seasonal discounts: Some services (e.g., Murray Hyundai) offer inspections for $134.95.

Tips

  1. Choose a morning time slot: There are fewer lines at registration centers.
  2. Check your car in advance: Replace tires, brake pads, and light bulbs.
  3. Pay attention to electric cars: They also require inspection (except for new ones).

Conclusion

Out-of-Province Inspection is a mandatory step for legalizing a car in Calgary. Exceptions apply only to new or low-mileage cars from neighboring provinces. To pass the inspection successfully: choose a licensed service, prepare your car, and meet the deadlines. Don't ignore the requirements — it will save you time and money!