Some of the most common reasons car owners need to cancel their vehicle registration are a stolen plate, or they’re moving out of the province or country. When cancelling your vehicle registration, you’ll need to fill out a Licence Plate/Parking Placard Cancellation Form and visit the registry or send your cancellation request by mail.

If you’re replacing your existing vehicle with a new one, you are not required to cancel your vehicle registration. If the registration is under your name, you can transfer the registration and the licence plate to your new car.

When Should You Cancel Your Vehicle Registration?

Cancelling your vehicle registration isn’t something most people think about—until they need to. Here are common situations where you should consider it:

• You’ve sold or gifted your vehicle
  Once ownership has changed, you should cancel your registration to protect yourself from any liability.
• You’re moving out of Alberta
  If you’re registering your vehicle in another province, cancel your Alberta registration to avoid overlapping records or renewal notices. If you have moved out of Alberta, you can return your licence plate to any registry agent office in person or by mail. Your file will be updated on the motor vehicle registry systems to reflect that you no longer possess the licence plate.
• Your vehicle has been scrapped or written off
  If the vehicle is no longer roadworthy and has been dismantled, cancelling the registration is a necessary final step.
• You no longer drive the vehicle
  If the car is sitting unused and you’ve removed it from insurance, cancelling registration can help close the loop.
• Your vehicle was stolen and not recovered
  Cancelling the registration may be needed after a report has been filed and the situation is finalized through your insurer.

Cancelling a Lost or Stolen Licence Plate in Alberta

If your plate has been lost or stolen, you’ll need to obtain a police report before cancelling your vehicle registration in person or by mail. You can replace your lost or stolen licence plate at the registry once a police report has been filed. You can report your stolen plate to the following local police services:

Vehicle Registration Cancellation Fees & Refund

Based on the remaining time on your vehicle registration, you may be eligible for a refund if you cancel it. If you are eligible for a refund, you will receive a cheque in the mail in 4-6 weeks. Please note:

• A $10 cancellation fee will be deducted from the refund
• If you have not received your funds, your address on the motor vehicle systems may be outdated
• Your refund will be applied to any outstanding fines that remain unpaid
• If you have not received your refund after 6 weeks, you can contact Service Alberta Refund Inquiries at refundinquiries@gov.ab.ca or Service
• Alberta Financial Reporting and Policy, Motor Vehicle Refund at (780) 422-1761 ext. 6

Cancelling Your Vehicle Registration the Easy Way

Leaving your vehicle registered when it is no longer needed can lead to unnecessary insurance costs, renewal notices, or even legal liability, especially if someone else ends up using the vehicle. It’s a small task that can save you from big headaches later.

Still have questions or want help in person? Visit us anytime at Riverbend Registry in South Edmonton. Our friendly team is here to walk you through the process and make cancelling your vehicle registration quick and easy!

Vehicle Registration Cancellation FAQ

Do I need to cancel my vehicle registration if I sell my car within Alberta?

Yes. Once you’ve sold or transferred ownership of your vehicle, it’s a smart move to cancel the registration. This helps protect you from any future liability associated with that vehicle, such as tickets or accidents.

Can I keep my licence plates after cancelling my registration?

Yes, you can keep your plates if you plan to transfer them to another vehicle registered under the same name. Just make sure the transfer happens within 14 days.

What happens if I don’t cancel the registration after selling my vehicle?

You could still be held responsible for any traffic fines, parking tickets, or incidents involving the vehicle. Cancelling registration ensures your name is removed from the system.

How long does it take to get a refund after cancelling registration?

If you’re eligible for a refund based on time remaining on your registration, it usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks to process. A $10 + GST fee is deducted for the cancellation.

Can I cancel registration if the vehicle is not in my name?

No. Only the registered owner of the vehicle can request a cancellation. If multiple names are on the registration, both parties may need to be present or provide written consent.