Updated October 1, 2026 · checked against official Government of Alberta sources
What to bring
- Proof of ownership: bill of sale, transfer document, lease agreement or the previous registration.
- Valid insurance for the vehicle, in the applicant's name.
- Acceptable identification.
- An inspection certificate if the vehicle is from out of province, was branded salvage, or is commercial.
The vehicle must be in Alberta and you cannot have outstanding unpaid fines. New residents have 90 days to register.
Renewing online
Eligible passenger vehicles can be renewed through Alberta eServices from $102, service charge included. You need your registration details and a payment card. If your vehicle is not eligible online (for example a commercial vehicle or one with unpaid fines), renew at a registry.
Costs at a registry
| Service | Government fee | Max. service charge | Most you pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger vehicle registration, first or renewal (1 year) | $87.00 | $15.00 | $102.00 |
| Motorcycle or off-highway vehicle registration | $52.00 | $15.00 | $67.00 |
| Transfer plates and registration (incl. ownership change) | $20.00 | $15.00 | $35.00 |
| Licence plate exchange | $20.00 | $15.00 | $35.00 |
| Duplicate registration certificate | $20.00 | $15.00 | $35.00 |
| In-transit permit | $15.00 | $15.00 | $30.00 |
| Antique motor vehicle (one-time) | $30.00 | $15.00 | $45.00 |
| Trailer pulled by a licensed vehicle (one-time) | $150.00 | $15.00 | $165.00 |
Registration fees include the $12 Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund fee. Electric vehicles may also pay the provincial EV tax. From the Registry Agent Product Catalogue (October 2026).
Selling or buying a used vehicle
The buyer registers the vehicle in their name with the bill of sale and their own insurance. The seller keeps the plates and can move them to their next vehicle. A Vehicle Information Report on a used vehicle is also available at registries.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my Alberta vehicle registration online?
Yes, eligible passenger vehicle registrations can be renewed through Alberta eServices. The online price starts at $102, which includes the service charge. Electric vehicles may also pay the provincial EV tax.
How much is vehicle registration in Alberta?
A passenger vehicle registration is an $87.00 government fee per year (it includes a $12 Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund fee) plus up to $15.00 registry service charge: $102.00 at most.
How long do new residents have to register a vehicle?
New Alberta residents must register their vehicle within 90 days of moving to the province. A vehicle coming from another province needs an out-of-province inspection first.
What do I need to transfer a vehicle after buying it?
Proof of ownership (bill of sale or transfer document), valid Alberta insurance in your name and acceptable ID. The transfer of plates and registration is a $20.00 government fee plus up to $15.00 service charge, on top of the registration if it needs renewing.
Do licence plates stay with the car in Alberta?
Plates are registered to the owner. When you sell a vehicle you can transfer your plates to your next vehicle at a registry.
Related guides
All registry fees
Every capped and uncapped fee.
Driver's licence renewal
Documents and cost.
Registries open late
After-work appointments.
Sources: Register a vehicle (Alberta.ca) · Renew passenger vehicle registration (eServices) · Registry Agent Product Catalogue (October 2026). Alberta Registry Offices is independent and not affiliated with the Government of Alberta. Rules and fees can change: confirm with your registry.