What Is a License Plate in Newfoundland and Labrador?
In Newfoundland and Labrador, a license plate is an official metal plate that must be visibly displayed on the rear of all motor vehicles registered in the province. The plate contains a unique combination of letters and numbers assigned by the Motor Registration Division (MRD) to identify the specific vehicle.
Newfoundland and Labrador license plates follow a standard format consisting of one letter, three numbers, and two letters (e.g., A 123 BC). The plate also includes the provincial name "Newfoundland and Labrador" at the bottom. Specialty and personalized license plates with different designs and configurations are also available for an additional fee.
Are License Plates Considered Public Records In Newfoundland and Labrador?
Yes, license plates are considered public records in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Motor Registration Division maintains information about a vehicle's registration, including the license plate number, and it is publicly accessible, subject to certain restrictions.
However, the Highway Traffic Act has provisions to protect individuals' privacy. Personal information like vehicle owners' names and addresses is not publicly disclosed. Law enforcement agencies can access more detailed information from license plate records when necessary for official purposes.
How Can I Obtain a License Plate In Newfoundland and Labrador?
You must first register your vehicle with the Motor Registration Division to obtain a license plate in Newfoundland and Labrador. You will need to provide:
- A vehicle registration application
- Proof of vehicle ownership (e.g., bill of sale, transfer of ownership document)
- Proof of valid automobile insurance
- A passed vehicle inspection report (if applicable)
- Payment for registration fees
Once these requirements are met, the license plate will be issued immediately at the Service NL branch.
How Much Does It Cost To Get a License Plate In Newfoundland and Labrador?
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the cost of obtaining a license plate varies depending on the type of vehicle and the specific registration requirements. Here are the critical fees for various categories of vehicle registrations:
- Passenger Vehicle: $90 ($80 if done online)
- Taxi: $90 ($80 if done online)
- Light Truck (0 to 4000kg): $90 ($80 if done online)
- Light Truck (4001 to 4500kg): $125 ($115 if done online)
- School Bus (10500kg and above): Contact for specific fees
- Motorcycle: $95 ($80 if done online)
- Antique Vehicle: $90
- Construction Vehicle: $230
- Recreational Trailer: $63 ($50 if done online)
- Semi Trailer: $63 ($50 if done online)
- Commercial Trailer (0 to 4500kg): $63 ($50 if done online)
There is no fee for specialty plates such as Veteran and Firefighter Plates. Additional costs include fees for in-transit permits and duplicate vehicle registration.
How Long Does It Take To Receive a License Plate In Newfoundland and Labrador?
In Newfoundland and Labrador, the process of receiving a standard license plate is typically immediate. When registering a vehicle and purchasing insurance through a Service NL center, the license plate is usually issued on the spot, allowing for immediate use.
Is It Illegal To Drive Without a License Plate In Newfoundland and Labrador?
Yes, driving without properly displaying a valid license plate on your vehicle in Newfoundland and Labrador is illegal. [Section 30(1)](https://www.assembly.nl.ca/legislation/sr/statutes/h03.htm#30_:~:text=30.%20(1,of%20the%20vehicle.) of the Highway Traffic Act requires that the current number plates relating to the vehicle and issued under this Act be exposed in a conspicuous position on the vehicle.
The only exceptions are for dealers moving unlicensed vehicles between locations and for newly purchased vehicles being driven directly from the place of purchase to an MRD office for registration, provided a temporary transit permit is obtained.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without a License Plate In Newfoundland and Labrador?
Driving without a license plate is a punishable offense under the Newfoundland and Labrador Highway Traffic Act. If you are caught driving an unregistered vehicle or one without license plates properly attached, you may face:
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A fine of up to $500
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Demerit points added to your driver's record
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Possible impoundment of your vehicle
Police officers routinely run license plates to check for valid registration, so displaying your plates properly is essential. Unregistered vehicles also risk being denied insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
Can I Drive With a Newfoundland and Labrador License Plate to Another Province?
Yes, vehicles with Newfoundland and Labrador license plates can be driven to other provinces within Canada. The Motor Vehicle Transport Act of Canada allows interprovincial travel with vehicles registered in any Canadian province or territory.
While Newfoundland and Labrador license plates are valid for travel in other provinces, it's important to note that if a person becomes a resident of another province, they may be required to register their vehicle in that province after a certain period.
Which Vehicles Are Required To Have License Plates In Newfoundland and Labrador?
Most motorized vehicles driven on public roads in Newfoundland and Labrador require license plates, including:
- Passenger cars and vans
- Trucks
- Buses
- Motorcycles
- Motorhomes and camper trailers
Which Vehicles Are Exempt From Having License Plates In Newfoundland and Labrador?
Very few vehicles are fully exempt from registration and license plate requirements in Newfoundland and Labrador. The limited exceptions include:
- Farm tractors and implements used solely for agricultural work
- Snow removal equipment and road maintenance vehicles
- Motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters
Does Newfoundland and Labrador Require Front License Plates?
Newfoundland and Labrador does not require vehicles to display front license plates. The province follows a single-plate system where only a rear license plate is mandatory for most vehicles.
This single-plate requirement applies to most vehicle types, including passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and motorcycles.
What Information Can Police Officers Access From License Plates In Newfoundland and Labrador?
When a police officer runs a license plate number through their database, they can access critical details about that vehicle and its registered owner, including:
- Make, model, year, and colour of the vehicle
- Status of the vehicle's registration and insurance
- Name and address of the registered owner(s)
- Driver's license numbers of the owner(s)
- Any driving convictions or suspensions linked to the owner(s)
This information helps officers identify registration and insurance violations, stolen vehicles, unlicensed drivers, and those with active warrants. Additional personal information about the vehicle owners is restricted and only accessible for official police investigations, not routine traffic stops.