What Is License Plate Replacement In Quebec?
License plate replacement in Quebec refers to the process of obtaining new license plates when your current plates are lost, stolen, damaged, or otherwise need to be replaced. This process is administered by the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), the government agency responsible for vehicle registration and driver licensing in the province.
Replacing your license plates is crucial to ensure your vehicle is identified correctly and compliant with Quebec's vehicle registration laws. Driving without valid license plates can result in fines and other legal consequences.
When Do You Need To Replace Your Quebec License Plate?
You need to replace your Quebec license plate in the following situations:
• If your license plate is lost or stolen
• If your license plate is damaged or deteriorated to the point where it is no longer legible
• If you have changed your name or address and need to update your vehicle registration
• If you have sold your vehicle and need to transfer ownership
In any of these situations, replacing your license plate as soon as possible is essential to avoid potential legal issues and ensure your vehicle is properly registered.
How Can You Get A Replacement License Plate In Quebec?
To get a replacement license plate in Quebec, you can follow these steps:
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Visit an SAAQ service center or contact the SAAQ by phone or online to report your lost, stolen, or damaged license plate.
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Provide the required information, such as your driver's license number, vehicle registration number, and personal identification.
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Pay the replacement fee (as of 2024, the cost is $2.60).
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You will receive your new license plates by mail within 10 to 20 business days.
For more information or to initiate the replacement process, visit the SAAQ's website or contact the SAAQ at:
Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ)
Address: 333 Boulevard Jean-Lesage, Québec, QC G1K 8J6
Phone Number: 1-800-361-7620
Where Can You Replace A License Plate In Quebec?
You can replace your license plate at any SAAQ service center located throughout Quebec. To find the nearest service center, you can:
• Use the SAAQ's online service center locator
• Call the SAAQ's customer service line at 1-800-361-7620
• Check your vehicle registration renewal notice for the address of the nearest service center
When visiting an SAAQ service center to have your license plate replaced, bring a valid piece of identification, such as your driver's license or passport, and be prepared to pay the replacement fee.
Can You Replace A Quebec License Plate Online?
No, you cannot replace a Quebec license plate entirely online. While you can report a lost, stolen, or damaged license plate through the SAAQ's website, you will still need to visit an SAAQ service center in person to complete the replacement process and pay the associated fee.
The SAAQ requires individuals to provide proof of identity and vehicle ownership when replacing license plates, which can only be done in person at a service center. This helps prevent fraud and ensures that license plates are issued to the vehicle's rightful owner.
When Must You Replace Your License Plate In Quebec?
In Quebec, you must replace your license plate as soon as possible if it is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition. Driving with a missing, illegible, or improper license plate violates Quebec's Highway Safety Code and can result in fines and other penalties.
Additionally, if you have changed your name or address, you must update your vehicle registration and obtain new license plates within 30 days of the change. This ensures that your vehicle registration remains accurate and up to date.
Do You Need Insurance To Get Replacement Plates In Quebec?
Yes, you need to have valid vehicle insurance to get replacement plates in Quebec. According to the Automobile Insurance Act, all vehicles registered in Quebec must be insured with a minimum of $50,000 in civil liability coverage.
When replacing your license plates, you may be required to provide proof of insurance, such as your insurance certificate or policy number. The SAAQ may verify this information with your insurer to ensure your coverage is active and meets the minimum requirements.
Failure to maintain valid insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties, in addition to the risks associated with driving without coverage.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A License Plate In Quebec?
Go to the website for the cost of replacing a license plate in Quebec in 2024.
Remember that additional fees may apply if you need to update your vehicle registration or replace a specialized license plate, such as a personalized or veteran plate.
How Long Does It Take To Get Replacement License Plates In Quebec?
After completing the license plate replacement process at an SAAQ service center and paying the associated fees, your new license plates will be mailed to you within 10 to 20 business days. The plates will be sent to the address on file with the SAAQ, so make sure your address is up to date before requesting a replacement.
In the meantime, the SAAQ service center will issue you a temporary registration certificate, which you should keep in your vehicle until your new plates arrive. This certificate serves as proof of registration and allows you to drive your vehicle while waiting for your replacement plates legally.
If you have not received your new license plates within 20 business days, contact the SAAQ at 1-800-361-7620 for assistance.
Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ)
Address: 333 Boulevard Jean-Lesage, Québec, QC G1K 8J6
Phone Number: 1-800-361-7620
Official Website: https://saaq.gouv.qc.ca/en/