Every year, there are many Canadians who purchase used cars from the United States. The reasons Canadians buy a used car from the US can include: they found a car at a cheaper price, they located a specialty car that cannot be found in Canada, or they are buying a used car from a private seller. If you are planning to buy a used car from the US and bring it to Canada, it is important to understand what the process involves so you do not get held up at the border crossing.

Used cars that are at least 15 years old are allowed to be imported from the U.S. without having to be checked to see if they meet Canada's emission and safety standards. The age of the vehicle is determined from the month the vehicle was built. Transport Canada's Registrar of Imported Vehicles (RIV) program is responsible for making sure all imported vehicles meet Canada's safety standards. Used cars that are imported from the US are normally carried by a flat bed truck or driven across the border. Once you have purchased the car, you have to go to that particular state's Department of Motor Vehicle office to acquire that state's title. On the state's motor vehicle department website, you will find the information on how to get temporary registration for the car. Remember, before you can travel with the vehicle, you will need to provide proof of insurance because it is illegal to drive in the US without auto insurance.

To be permitted entry into Canada with a used car, you will need the copy of the vehicle's foreign registration document. This document provides information about the county of export and the age of the vehicle. You should also have a bill of sale that details information about the vehicle such as the vehicle identification number, make, year, and model, the names and addresses of the seller and purchaser and how much you paid for the used car.

When arriving at the border, a customs official will enter the car's data into the RIV program. There will be a registration fee of $182.00, except for Quebec, which is $197.00. If the car has to be brought up to Canadian standards, you will have 45 days to do so. You won't be able to register and license the car in Canada until it is modified and inspected. When you have met all of the import criteria, customs will provide you with a Vehicle Import Form, which is given to your province's licensing officials. Once the used car meets the standards and passes inspection, you can then get the car registered. As well, you will be responsible for such fees as provincial sales tax on the amount you paid for the vehicle and registration fees.

When buying a car from the US to bring to Canada, it is important to remember that you will not be able to secure leasing or a financing plan, or qualify for any rebates. When purchasing a used car from the US instead of Canada, you have to be aware of the extra fees associated with the import. As with any purchase, always do your research so you do not end up having your car denied access at the Canadian border.