What Happens if You Forget to Renew Your Vehicle Registration in Alberta December 5th, 2025 • 5 min read Vehicle registration is a fundamental part of driving in Alberta. Not only is it required by law, it also identifies you as your vehicle’s owner and ensures compliance with vehicle safety standards. With busy lifestyles, it’s easy for certain tasks to fall by the wayside, and renewing your vehicle’s Alberta registration can get pushed aside. That said, renewal is relatively easy, and failing to do so on time can lead to unwanted consequences, including tickets and towing or impound fees. In this blog, we’ll look at what happens if you forget to renew your Alberta vehicle registration: Consequences of Failing to Renew Your Vehicle Registration in Alberta Driving without registration can lead to serious consequences, including: Vehicle Impoundment Your vehicle could be impounded, particularly if your registration has expired for an extended period of time. To avoid vehicle impounding, along with the associated fees, renew your Alberta vehicle registration before it expires. Insurance Issues If your unregistered vehicle is in an accident, your insurance company may not cover damages, leaving you financially responsible. While driving with expired registration does not result in demerits in Alberta, there is no grace period on registration renewals. Therefore, you will be found in violation of Alberta’s motor vehicle regulations as soon as your registration expires. To avoid fines and other consequences, prioritize your Alberta vehicle registration renewal. Reinstating a Lapsed Vehicle Registration You can easily renew your vehicle registration in Alberta, either online or in person. At Registrations Are Us, we can help ensure your information is accurate, up-to-date, and complete for a quick and easy renewal process. Prior to renewing your registration, ensure your vehicle insurance is current. Under the Alberta Insurance Act, your vehicle’s insurance must include public liability and property damage coverage under the owner’s auto insurance policy. It’s important to note that it’s illegal to apply for or obtain Alberta vehicle registration for a vehicle that isn’t insured. To renew your Alberta Vehicle Registration, you’ll need: Your previous vehicle registration or license plate number Proof of valid Alberta liability insurance (a current pink card in the same name(s) as listed on the vehicle registration) One piece of Government-issued photo ID, or support document If vehicle registration has expired for 1 year or more, you will be required to provide ownership documents. Paying Your Ticket Before renewing your Alberta vehicle registration, visit Registrations Are Us to pay any outstanding fines or penalties. Unresolved fines, such as traffic tickets, can prevent the renewal process, leaving you without a vehicle. Address these issues promptly to ensure a smooth renewal experience and avoid potential complications. Registrations Are Us offers in-person fine payment services for various types of tickets, including traffic violations, parking tickets, and photo radar tickets. To process your payment, bring in: Valid government-issued photo ID The violation ticket you received Renew Your Alberta Vehicle Registration with Ease at Registrations Are Us Renewing your Alberta vehicle registration has never been easier. Whether you prefer to renew online or in person, Registrations Are Us can simplify the process. The Alberta Government no longer sends out registration expiry reminders, which means it’s up to you to stay on top of your renewal. Sign up for convenient email or text reminders, and you’ll be notified two months before your registration expires—and again two weeks prior—so you never miss a deadline. Ready to renew your Alberta vehicle registration? Visit us today or contact Registrations Are Us to get started!
