Buying a Car in Ontario? OMVIC’s Registrar Explains What You Need to Know
- Published On
- November 5, 2025
- Category
Purchasing a vehicle is one of the biggest financial decisions most Ontarians make, and it can feel overwhelming. To help consumers navigate this process with confidence, OMVIC’s CEO and Registrar, Maureen Harquail, sat down with Ross Hull from Global News to share essential tips and reminders. Watch the full video below and read on for key insights that could save you time, money, and stress.
What OMVIC Does for Ontarians
OMVIC’s mission is simple: help Ontarians understand their rights before buying a car. Most importantly, OMVIC is your resource before you even start the car-buying journey.
OMVIC is also the regulator of motor vehicle sales in Ontario. With over 8,000 dealerships and 30,000 salespeople across the province, OMVIC’s role is to register and oversee these businesses to ensure fair and transparent practices.
Walking into a dealership can feel high-pressure but remember: you’re in control. If you’re not happy with the offer, walk away. There’s nothing to lose.
“Ontario does not have a cooling-off period for vehicle purchases. Once you sign the bill of sale, you’re legally committed.”– Maureen Harquail, OMVIC CEO and Registrar |
If you’ve paid a deposit but haven’t signed the bill of sale, you are fully entitled to get your deposit back. A deposit alone does not create a contract. Always confirm the terms before you commit and make sure you feel completely confident in your decision. If you have any doubts or questions, take a moment to pause and reach out to OMVIC at 1-800-943-6002.
Buying Online? Check Registration First
Whether you buy online or in person, use OMVIC’s Dealer/Salesperson Search Tool to verify you are working with an OMVIC registered dealer. OMVIC can only assist when a vehicle is purchased from an OMVIC registered dealer.
Watch Out for Curbsiders
One of today’s biggest challenges is unregistered sellers, also called curbsiders, who illegally trade vehicles without being registered by OMVIC. They often sell rebuilt wrecks with rolled-back odometers or even stolen parts, hidden damage, falsified histories, or re-VINned vehicles. Unlike buying from an OMVIC registered dealer, buyers have little to no recourse if something goes wrong. Visit our shopping tips section for resources, tools, and tips to protect yourself.
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