Everything You Need to Know About Updating, Transferring, and Replacing a RIN in Ontario
What Is a RIN?
A RIN (Registrant Identification Number) is a unique business identifier issued by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO).
It links your business entity to all vehicle ownership, registration, and insurance records in Ontario.
If your business details change, your RIN must be updated — and if it’s lost or corrupted in the system, you may need to replace it.
Update, transfer, or replace your RIN properly to ensure your business stays compliant with Ontario vehicle laws.
1. Updating a RIN: When and How to Do It
When to Update
You must update your RIN any time the following changes occur:
— Business name change or rebranding
— New business address or postal code
— Change in directors or signing officers
— Merger or restructuring of the business
How to Update
You can update your RIN by visiting a ServiceOntario centre or submitting a written update request on company letterhead. Also bring:
— Business registration documents (e.g., Articles of Amendment or new Master Business Licence)
— Government-issued ID of the authorized signer
— Your current RIN or RIN Declaration
Processing time: Updates are usually completed the same day.
2. Transferring Ownership Under a RIN
A RIN is tied to the business entity, not to individual vehicles.
However, when vehicles are sold, leased, or transferred, the RIN plays a key role in tracking ownership history.
When a Transfer Transaction Is Required
— Selling a business vehicle to another company or individual
— Leasing or financing through a different legal entity
— Restructuring ownership (e.g., moving assets to a holding company)
Note that a transfer of the vehicle does not equal a transfer of the RIN. The business owns the RIN.
Steps to Transfer a Vehicle Registered Under a RIN
— Gather proof of ownership and bill of sale.
— Complete a Vehicle Ownership Transfer Form (available at ServiceOntario).
— Present your RIN or RIN Declaration and identification.
— Pay transfer and registration fees.
MTO updates the records under the buyer’s RIN or driver’s licence number.
Tip: The RIN itself does not transfer — the new owner (if a business) must have its own RIN.
3. Replacing a Lost or Invalid RIN
If your RIN is lost, damaged, or rejected by the MTO system, it may need to be reissued or replaced.
Reasons You Might Need a Replacement
— You’ve lost documentation containing your RIN.
— The RIN was linked incorrectly (e.g., duplicate records).
— The RIN was issued under an outdated business name that no longer exists.
— ServiceOntario cannot locate your RIN in the database.
How to Replace a RIN
— Bring proof of business registration or incorporation.
— Provide valid photo ID and business contact details.
— Complete a new RIN Declaration (sworn or affirmed).
ServiceOntario will issue a replacement RIN and merge the records.
Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy of your RIN Declaration and RIN number in your business records and insurance files.
What Not to Do
Avoid:
— Using your driver’s licence number for business transactions
— Creating multiple RINs for one business
— Failing to update RIN details after corporate changes
These mistakes cause record duplication, insurance delays, and potential rejection of vehicle registrations.
Maintaining an Accurate RIN Record
To keep your RIN compliant and problem-free:
— Review your RIN data annually
— Update it after any major business change
— Keep digital and physical copies of all declarations and permits
— Ensure your insurance broker uses the same RIN details on all policies
FAQs About RIN Updates and Replacements
1. How do I find my RIN if I’ve lost it? Visit ServiceOntario with your business name, ID, and incorporation documents — they can look it up for you.
2. Can I transfer my RIN to another business? No. Each business entity must have its own RIN. You can, however, transfer vehicles between businesses.
3. What if my RIN shows the wrong business name? Submit proof of your correct name (e.g., new MBL or Articles of Amendment) and request an update at ServiceOntario.
4. Can I replace my RIN online? You can re-swear a declaration online and use it to apply for a replacement RIN through ServiceOntario.
5. How long does it take to update or replace a RIN? Usually within 1–3 business days, depending on verification and documentation.
Key Takeaways
A RIN must be updated whenever business information changes.
You can transfer vehicles, but not the RIN itself.
Lost or duplicate RINs can be replaced or merged at ServiceOntario.
Online RIN declaration services make updates and replacements faster.
Keep your RIN current to avoid vehicle registration delays.
A RIN (Registrant Identification Number) is a unique business identifier issued by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO).
It links your business entity to all vehicle ownership, registration, and insurance records in Ontario.
If your business details change, your RIN must be updated — and if it’s lost or corrupted in the system, you may need to replace it.
Update, transfer, or replace your RIN properly to ensure your business stays compliant with Ontario vehicle laws.
1. Updating a RIN: When and How to Do It
When to Update
You must update your RIN any time the following changes occur:
— Business name change or rebranding
— New business address or postal code
— Change in directors or signing officers
— Merger or restructuring of the business
How to Update
You can update your RIN by visiting a ServiceOntario centre or submitting a written update request on company letterhead. Also bring:
— Business registration documents (e.g., Articles of Amendment or new Master Business Licence)
— Government-issued ID of the authorized signer
— Your current RIN or RIN Declaration
Processing time: Updates are usually completed the same day.
2. Transferring Ownership Under a RIN
A RIN is tied to the business entity, not to individual vehicles.
However, when vehicles are sold, leased, or transferred, the RIN plays a key role in tracking ownership history.
When a Transfer Transaction Is Required
— Selling a business vehicle to another company or individual
— Leasing or financing through a different legal entity
— Restructuring ownership (e.g., moving assets to a holding company)
Note that a transfer of the vehicle does not equal a transfer of the RIN. The business owns the RIN.
Steps to Transfer a Vehicle Registered Under a RIN
— Gather proof of ownership and bill of sale.
— Complete a Vehicle Ownership Transfer Form (available at ServiceOntario).
— Present your RIN or RIN Declaration and identification.
— Pay transfer and registration fees.
MTO updates the records under the buyer’s RIN or driver’s licence number.
Tip: The RIN itself does not transfer — the new owner (if a business) must have its own RIN.
3. Replacing a Lost or Invalid RIN
If your RIN is lost, damaged, or rejected by the MTO system, it may need to be reissued or replaced.
Reasons You Might Need a Replacement
— You’ve lost documentation containing your RIN.
— The RIN was linked incorrectly (e.g., duplicate records).
— The RIN was issued under an outdated business name that no longer exists.
— ServiceOntario cannot locate your RIN in the database.
How to Replace a RIN
— Bring proof of business registration or incorporation.
— Provide valid photo ID and business contact details.
— Complete a new RIN Declaration (sworn or affirmed).
ServiceOntario will issue a replacement RIN and merge the records.
Pro Tip: Keep a digital copy of your RIN Declaration and RIN number in your business records and insurance files.
What Not to Do
Avoid:
— Using your driver’s licence number for business transactions
— Creating multiple RINs for one business
— Failing to update RIN details after corporate changes
These mistakes cause record duplication, insurance delays, and potential rejection of vehicle registrations.
Maintaining an Accurate RIN Record
To keep your RIN compliant and problem-free:
— Review your RIN data annually
— Update it after any major business change
— Keep digital and physical copies of all declarations and permits
— Ensure your insurance broker uses the same RIN details on all policies
FAQs About RIN Updates and Replacements
1. How do I find my RIN if I’ve lost it? Visit ServiceOntario with your business name, ID, and incorporation documents — they can look it up for you.
2. Can I transfer my RIN to another business? No. Each business entity must have its own RIN. You can, however, transfer vehicles between businesses.
3. What if my RIN shows the wrong business name? Submit proof of your correct name (e.g., new MBL or Articles of Amendment) and request an update at ServiceOntario.
4. Can I replace my RIN online? You can re-swear a declaration online and use it to apply for a replacement RIN through ServiceOntario.
5. How long does it take to update or replace a RIN? Usually within 1–3 business days, depending on verification and documentation.
Key Takeaways
A RIN must be updated whenever business information changes.
You can transfer vehicles, but not the RIN itself.
Lost or duplicate RINs can be replaced or merged at ServiceOntario.
Online RIN declaration services make updates and replacements faster.
Keep your RIN current to avoid vehicle registration delays.