Importing a US Vehicle into Alberta

 

After importing a vehicle into Alberta, there are several steps to follow before a vehicle can be registered. Any motor vehicle requires a federal inspection as well as a provincial inspection. Federal Inspection locations are appointed by RIV Canada. After the inspection is complete, they will stamp your F1 import form with a green stamp, and provide youlogo.jpg with a paper with your vehicle’s particulars on it.  Provincial inspections (aka out-of-province inspections) have a little more detailed process. First, you must take your F1 import form and proof of ownership to a registry office to have your vehicle searched and created on the Alberta system. We will issue you a white form, which must be taken a garage of your choice as long as they are accredited to perform out of province inspections. (A complete list of accredited locations can be obtained from our office).
The current fee for the form we provide is $9.45.

There is a charge for the out of province inspection, and we would encourage you to call around, as prices can vary.

If needed, an in-transit permit can be purchased once insurance is obtained on the vehicle.  The permit will be good for one week to accomplish the inspections, and is for this purpose only.

After both inspections are completed your vehicle is eligible to be registered. You will need to bring in the following items:

  • original white F1 import form
  • green out-of-province inspection form (not more than 14 days old)
  • Certificate of Title or Certificate of Origin for new vehicles
  • bill of sale (if in joint names, both people will need to be present, or a letter of authorization will need to be filled out by the party that isn’t able to come in.  This form can be found on our website
  • copy of the current Alberta insurance
  • your driver’s licence

At this time, we will keep the original copy of the white F1 import form, as well as the green out-of-province form and authorization, if required.  Please note that trailers being imported do not require an out-of-province inspection, or insurance, to register, but that all the other conditions still apply.

Resources:

Canada Boarder Services Agency

      In Canada:

   1.800.461.9999 (English)
 

   1.800.959.2036 (French)

Registrar of Imported Vehicles (particularly the "How to Import" Section)
 

   1.888.848.8240

Transport Canada

      In Canada:

   1.800.333.0371