What Is a License Plate in Yukon?
A license plate in Yukon is an official alphanumeric identifier issued by the territorial government for vehicles registered within the territory. It serves as a unique identification mark for each vehicle, allowing law enforcement and other authorities to recognize it easily.
The design of Yukon license plates typically features the territory's name, a slogan, and a combination of letters and numbers. These plates are issued by the Department of Highways and Public Works and must be displayed on all registered vehicles operating on public roads within the territory.
Are License Plates Considered Public Records In Yukon?
Yes, license plates are considered public records in Yukon. The Motor Vehicles Branch maintains information about a vehicle's registration, including the license plate number, and it is publicly accessible, subject to certain restrictions.
However, the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act of Yukon 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 Yukon?
To obtain a license plate in Yukon, you need to register your vehicle. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're registering a new or used vehicle.
- Registering a New Vehicle:
Bring the following documents to any Yukon Motor Vehicles office:
- New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS)
- Signed and dated bill of sale
- Valid insurance
- Registering a Used Vehicle:
For a used vehicle, bring the following documents:
- Signed and dated bill of sale
- A copy of the previous owner's registration
- Valid insurance
Once you provide these documents and the registration process is complete, you will be issued a license plate for your vehicle.
How Much Does It Cost To Get a License Plate In Yukon?
In Yukon, а staggered registration system has been implemented to spread vehicle registration over twelve months. Vehicle registration fees depend on the type of vehicle, its weight, and the length of the registration period:
Private Vehicle Registration Fees:
Cars (wheelbase):
- Up to 300 cm: $3.00/month
- Over 301 cm: $4.00/month
Trucks (including motorhomes and farm vehicles):
- Up to 2,999 kg: $3.00/month
- 3,000 to 4,999 kg: $4.00/month
- 5,000 to 11,999 kg: $6.00/month
- 12,000 kg and above: Fees increase incrementally according to vehicle weight.
Commercial Vehicles, Leased, or Rented Vehicles:
- Up to 4,999 kg: $5.00/month
- 5,000 to 9,999 kg: $8.00/month
Fees increase with vehicle weight, up to $144.00/month for vehicles over 64,000 kg, plus $3.00 for each additional 1,000 kilograms.
Additional fees apply based on passenger capacity and weight for heavier vehicles or specific categories (e.g., buses).
How Long Does It Take To Receive a License Plate In Yukon?
License plates are typically issued immediately upon completing the vehicle registration process. When registering a vehicle at a Motor Vehicles office, applicants can expect to receive their license plate on the same day, provided all required documentation is in order and fees are paid.
Due to manufacturing requirements, the process may take longer for specialty or personalized plates. In such cases, temporary permits may be issued to allow the vehicle to be legally operated while waiting for the custom plate to be produced. The exact timeframe for receiving specialty plates can vary, and applicants should inquire about estimated delivery times when placing their order at the Motor Vehicles office.
Is It Illegal To Drive Without a License Plate In Yukon?
Yes, it is illegal to drive without a license plate in Yukon. The Motor Vehicles Act of Yukon ( Section 60) mandates that all vehicles operated on public roads must display a valid license plate issued by the territory. Driving without an adequately displayed license plate violates territorial law and can result in significant penalties.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without a License Plate In Yukon?
Driving without a license plate in Yukon can result in severe penalties as outlined in the Motor Vehicles Act. The specific consequences may include:
- Monetary fines
- Demerit points on the driver's license
- Potential vehicle impoundment
- Court appearances
The severity of the penalties can increase for repeat offenders or if additional violations are present. It is important to note that these penalties are subject to change, and the exact fines or consequences may vary based on the circumstances of the offence.
Can I Drive With a Yukon License Plate to Another Province?
Yes, you can legally drive a vehicle with Yukon license plates in any other Canadian province or territory. Your Yukon vehicle registration remains valid when travelling interprovincially.
However, if you move to another province or territory, you must register your vehicle there and obtain new plates from that jurisdiction. Most provinces require new residents to switch their registration within 30-90 days. If staying in another province temporarily (e.g., for work or school), check their regulations about when you need to change plates.
Which Vehicles Are Required To Have License Plates In Yukon?
Most motorized vehicles driven on public roads in Yukon require license plates, including:
- Passenger cars and vans
- Trucks and buses
- Motorcycles
- Motorhomes and camping trailers
- Trailers and semi-trailers
Plates must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle.
Does Yukon Require Front License Plates?
Yukon follows a single-plate system, where only a rear license plate is mandatory for most vehicle types. This policy helps reduce costs associated with plate production and simplifies vehicle registration processes.
What Information Can Police Officers Access From License Plates In Yukon?
Police officers in Yukon have access to various information through license plate queries. When a license plate is run through the territorial database, officers can typically access:
- Vehicle registration details
- Insurance status
- Outstanding fines or warrants associated with the vehicle
- Stolen vehicle reports
This information is accessed through secure law enforcement databases and is governed by privacy laws. Its use is strictly regulated and intended for law enforcement purposes only.