Guide to Obtaining a RIN in Ontario for Your Business

If your corporation or business needs to register a vehicle in Ontario, you must first obtain a Registrant Identification Number (RIN). This number is required to get a vehicle permit and licence plate under a business name instead of an individual’s driver’s licence.

In this guide, we explain:

• What a RIN is

• Who needs a RIN in Ontario

• The documents required

• Why notarization is needed

• The step-by-step process to obtain a RIN

What Is a Registrant Identification Number (RIN)?

A Registrant Identification Number (RIN) is a unique number issued by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario that identifies a corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship within Ontario’s vehicle registration system.

Businesses must have a RIN before they can:

• Register a company vehicle

• Obtain licence plates

• Transfer ownership of a vehicle into a corporate name

• Purchase a vehicle under a business

Each corporation or business only needs one RIN, regardless of how many vehicles it owns.

Who Needs a RIN in Ontario?

You need a RIN if you are:

• An incorporated company

• A registered partnership

• A sole proprietorship operating under a registered business name

• A business purchasing or leasing vehicles in Ontario

Individuals registering a vehicle in their personal name do not need a RIN.

Why Is a Notary Public Required for a RIN?

To create a new RIN, the Service Ontario requires a sworn statement confirming the identity and authority of the business.

A Notary Public in Ontario is required to:

• Verify your identity

• Confirm your authority to act on behalf of the corporation or business

• Review your corporate documentation

• Administer the oath or affirmation

• Affix the official Notarial Seal

In-person notarization ensures compliance and helps avoid delays or rejection of your application.

Documents Required to Obtain a RIN in Ontario

Before attending your notary appointment and visiting Service Ontario, you will need:

1. Business Formation Documents

One of the following:

• Articles of Incorporation

• Business Name Registration

• Master Business Licence

These must show the legal business name and registered address.

2. Two Pieces of Official Business Mail

Examples include:

• Corporate tax documents

• Utility bill

• Commercial lease agreement

• Bank statement

The documents must clearly show the business name and registered address.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a RIN in Ontario

Step 1: Gather Your Business Documents

Ensure your corporate documents and two pieces of official mail match your registered business name and address.

Step 2: Meet with your Notary Public

Bring your identification and corporate documents to your Notary Public.

During the appointment:

• Your identity will be verified

• Your authority to act for the business will be confirmed

• You will swear or affirm the RIN statement

• The Notarial Seal will be applied

You will leave with a properly commissioned sworn statement ready for submission.

Step 3: Visit Service Ontario

Attend a Service Ontario location with:

• Your sworn statement

• Articles of Incorporation, Business Registration, or Master Business Licence

• Two pieces of official business mail

Service Ontario will verify the documentation and issue your Registrant Identification Number (RIN).

You may also provide the documentation to a dealership if they are obtaining the RIN on your behalf.

Common Reasons RIN Applications Get Delayed

• Business name inconsistencies across documents

• Incorrect registered address

• Improperly sworn statements

• Insufficient proof of business address