Getting a Safety Standards Certificate in Ontario

What the safety inspection checks, when you need one, and how to avoid a surprise fail.

If you buy a used vehicle in Ontario and want plates on it, you’ll usually need a Safety Standards Certificate from a licensed inspection station.

What gets checked

The inspection covers things like brakes, tires, steering, suspension, lights, windshield and wipers, exhaust, and the body for rust that affects safety.

It only lasts 36 days

A certificate is valid for 36 days from the inspection, so time it with the sale or registration.

Avoid a surprise fail

• Replace burnt-out bulbs and worn wiper blades first. They’re cheap and easy.
• Check tire tread and look for cracks in the windshield.
• Listen for grinding brakes and clunks over bumps.

Questions to ask the shop

• What is the price for the inspection itself?
• If it fails, do I get a written list, and is the re-inspection included?
• Can I take the car elsewhere for the repairs?

A good shop will show you anything that failed and explain it in plain words.