Licence Plate Q & A

Print

Lately I have been noticing licence plates that have a "continuous" sticker in the spot that typically displays a valid-thru date? How does this work?

This past February SGI introduced a continuous registration program for customers who choose the AutoPay option for registering their vehicle. Under the program, continuous monthly payments are automatically withdrawn from the customer's bank account, as authorized by the customer. Vehicle registration will be valid as long as the automatic withdrawals are in good standing and not otherwise cancelled. An annual declaration must, however, be completed to ensure continued eligibility for Saskatchewan registration. Detailed information about the program is available from any motor licence issuer.

I am new to the province and have seen many different styles of Saskatchewan licence plates. How many options are there?

In addition to regular licence plates, SGI offers some specialty plates. In particular, registered vehicle owners may opt for a personalized licence plate for a fee. Personalized plates are generally restricted to a maximum of six characters, meaning letters or numbers, and cannot imply offensive messages or criminal connotations. Additionally, war veterans are eligible for a stylized veteran licence plate honouring their service. Eligibility is determined in conjunction with the Royal Canadian Legion. And most recently SGI teamed up with the Saskatchewan Roughriders to create a special Roughrider licence plate to commemorate the team's 100th anniversary. These licence plates are also available for a fee and will continue to be available in coming years. All Saskatchewan plates use the familiar green and white colour combination and have a similar look and format.

I am thinking about moving out of province and possibly selling my vehicle. What happens to my licence plates?

Regardless of whether you sell your vehicle here or in another province, it is very important to physically remove the license plate(s) and turn them in to SGI to ensure that they are no longer associated with your name. Failure to do so is an offence and can result in messy legal situations in the event of an accident or other traffic violation. If you do move out of province and decide to licence the vehicle elsewhere you may be required to turn your licence plates over to the new licence issuer. In this case make sure to provide SGI with a notice of surrender, again to ensure that they are no longer associated with your name.

I purchased a 1985 convertible from California. The front of the vehicle still displays an older California licence plate that I'd like to keep as is. Is this a problem?

Generally speaking a vehicle registered in Saskatchewan can only display a rear licence plate. There are some exceptions for vehicles and plates older than 1977 or in cases where the front and rear plate are identical, as is an option with some specialty plates. It is an offence to display outdated plates from another jurisdiction or a novelty item that could be confused with a legitimate licence plate.

I drive my vehicle a lot on dirt back roads that tend to be either really dusty or muddy. I always ensure my driving view is not obscured but a friend said I better make sure that my plate numbers are always visible as well. Is this true?

It is an offence to operate your vehicle if your licence plate is obstructed in any manner that could prevent it from being accurately recorded by a red light camera system. Generally speaking your licence plate must be secured in such a way as to be distinctly visible and legible. To this end, licence plates should be kept free from dirt, debris or packed snow. A current validation sticker must also always be displayed.