Out of province inspection in Calgary.

Alberta requires an out of province inspection before you can register a vehicle that was last registered in another province. That applies whether you are moving to Alberta or bought the car or truck from outside the province. It must be done regardless of the vehicle's age or mileage.

The inspection follows criteria set by the Province of Alberta. The technician has to fail any item that does not meet them. It is not a judgement call.

Get the request form

Pick up an out of province inspection request form at any Alberta registry office and bring it with you.

Get the vehicle ready

• Clear out extra cargo so every part of the vehicle can be reached. If we cannot get to an area, the appointment may have to be rebooked.
• Take children's car seats out. Every seat belt is tested, and a car seat often blocks one. If we have to remove a car seat, it is not put back in.
• Leave the wheel lock key on the passenger seat or in the cup holder. The wheels come off for this inspection. Without the key, the appointment may need to be rebooked, or the locks removed by force, which destroys them.

Plan on about 3 hours for the physical inspection and the government paperwork. Most people drop the vehicle off and go about their day. An early morning appointment helps: if a repair is needed, there is time to do it without a second visit.

If something fails, you get a quote that lists the required repairs and their prices. Nothing is done without your yes. Once the vehicle passes, you get the paperwork you need to register it in Alberta.

Do not leave it to the last minute. Most drivers expect their vehicle to pass, but the province's criteria are strict, so give yourself time to deal with any repairs. Common fixes include brakes, suspension and steering and tires.