The "one stop" for people on the go
one-stop-insurance-inc
The "one stop" for people on the go

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to register my vehicle?

To register a vehicle you will require

  • proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will)
  • proof of valid insurance (pink slip in the name of the registrant or policy number, insurance company and expiry date)
  • acceptable identification
  • if the vehicle is new you will also need a new vehicle information statement (NVIS)
  • if the vehicle was imported into Canada, you will require a Vehicle Import Form from Transport Canada

used Vehicles previously registered outside of the province require a safety inspection

Do I need the renewal form that I received in the mail in order to renew my driver's licence and vehicle registration?

No, you are not required to present the renewal form if you don’t have it. Simply present your existing photo licence and / or registration along with your insurance to One Stop Licence Shop and pay the required fee. If non-photo licence is presented, acceptable identification is required.

Do I need a medical report to renew my driver's licence?

A medical report is required when applying for or renewing a class 1, 2 or 4 licences.

In addition, if you have a condition code C (periodic satisfactory medical report) or code D (periodic vision report) on your licence, you must submit a medical report.

If you have a medical condition that may affect your driving ability, you must submit a medical report.

If you are 75 years of age or older you will be required to submit a medical report and provide a vision screening.

My children are not residents of Alberta but are attending school full time in Alberta. Do they have to register their vehicles and change their operator licences in Alberta?

No. Provided they are full time students and the vehicle is registered in their home jurisdiction in their name.

At what age can a person obtain a learner's licence?

In Alberta, an individual must be at least 14 years of age to apply for a learner’s licence with parental consent if under 18.

What is considered acceptable identification to obtain an Alberta driver's licence or identification card?

To ensure that driver’s licences and ID cards are issued to the correct person, all registry agents must follow strict government, identity confirmation requirements. You must satisfy each of the following three categories:

Who you are:

Photo document that MUST contain your legal name and date of birth.

Some examples of acceptable documents include:

  • your driver’s licence or identification card,
  • government issued photo ID,
  • your image on the motor vehicle system,
  • Citizenship, Immigration, Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card,
  • Passport
  • Municipal, Provincial or Federal Police Force ID.

(This list is not inclusive. Contact us if you need assistance.)

What you have:

Support documents that contain two data elements such as name, DOB, signature, address, etc. They should be originals or certified true copies.

Some examples of acceptable documents include:

  • Birth or Marriage Certificate
  • Credit, Debit or Account Card (must contain your name and signature)
  • Municipal, Territorial, Provincial, or Federal Employee card
  • Chequing or savings account statements
  • Cancelled cheque with imprinted name and address
  • Utility, telephone, gas or cable TV bill in the applicants own name
  • Property tax bill or receipt, land title or mortgage documents
  • Income tax receipts
  • Insurance documents (life, auto, home, etc.)

Some examples of unacceptable documents include:

  • Interim/temporary driver’s licence
  • Business cards
  • Cheque cashing cards
  • Library Card
  • Video club membership card
  • Insurance Liability Cards (pink slips)

What you know:

Verification of personal information against the motor vehicle system

Note:

All documents presented must be originals or certified true copies. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Falsifying information while applying for a driver’s licence or identification card is a criminal offence.

What is considered acceptable identification for motor vehicle purposes?

To obtain motor vehicle services you will need either an Alberta operator’s licence, government issued photo ID, or two pieces of identification.

I forgot to renew my driver's licence ­­--- do I need to take a road test?

Not necessarily. If your licence has been expired for less than 3 years you do not need to take a road test to renew it. If it has been expired for 36 months or longer you will need to take both a knowledge and road test.

You cannot use an expired driver’s licence to drive or for identification purposes.

How do I obtain my out of province driver's abstract?

One Stop Licence Shop can help you obtain your out of province driver’s abstract. Complete an Out of Province Abstract Form or contact us and we will order it for you.

How do I obtain my Alberta abstract if I am unable to come into the office in person?

If you are unable to come into the office in person, complete a Letter of Authorization and send someone in to obtain your driver’s abstract on your behalf. The individual you send must produce two pieces of identification and must have your driver’s licence number.

How do I question or make corrections to the information on my driver's abstract?

You will find telephone numbers on the back of your driver’s abstract that can be used to inquire about the traffic violations that appear on your driving record.

Can I take my road test at One Stop Licence Shop?

Road testing is provided by experienced Examiners that have been in the business for many years. Their pleasant, calm and relaxed attitudes are sure to put you at ease. We provide all Classes of tests at both our North and South locations.
Your appointment must be booked at the location that you want to conduct your test:

  • To book at our NORTH location call — 403 341 7867 (press 0 for reception)
  • To book at our SOUTH location call – 403 348 5200

I have recently moved to Alberta. How do I exchange my out of province driver's licence for an Alberta driver's licence?

If you have moved to Alberta you must surrender your out-of-province driver’s licence within 3 months. You will be asked to provide proof of Alberta residency, Canadian citizenship or immigration documents, acceptable identification and will be asked to take a vision test.

Driver’s who are over age 75, or have a medical condition that may affect the safe operation of a vehicle, will be asked to provide a medical examination form.

What do I need to register a vehicle that is coming in from a province outside Alberta?

To register an out-of-province vehicle you will be asked to provide the following:

Acceptable identification

  • Proof of Ownership ( bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will)
  • Proof of Insurance (pink slip in the same name as the applicant or policy number, insurance company and expiry date)
  • An out-of-province safety inspection (by an authorized mechanic)

If the vehicle is coming from outside of Canada you will also need to produce a Canada Customs Vehicle Import Form. To obtain additional information about importing a vehicle into Canada refer to Registrar of Imported Vehicles or Canada Customs web sites.

How do I transfer my vehicle registration to another vehicle?

To transfer a vehicle you will require:

  • proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will),
  • proof of valid insurance (pink card in the same name as registrant)
  • acceptable identification
  • if the vehicle is new you will need a new vehicle information statement (NVIS),
  • if the vehicle was imported into Canada, you will require a Vehicle Import Form from Transport Canada
  • used Vehicles previously registered outside of the province require a safety inspection

Can I use the plate that was left on the vehicle that I purchased?

No, that plate is already registered to another person. The previous owner should have retained or cancelled the plate if they did not plan on transferring it to their new vehicle. You can return the plate to One Stop Licence Shop and we will ensure that it is disposed of properly. You will need to purchase your own plate and vehicle registration.

Should I cancel my registration when I sell my vehicle?

If you do not plan on transferring your plate and registration to a new vehicle then yes, you should cancel your plate and registration. All traffic convictions and tickets assigned to your plate are your responsibility. Cancelling your plate or advising One Stop Licence Shop if it is lost or stolen can be very important. Doing so will ensure that it does not get into the wrong hands.

What are the different driver's licence classes ?

Class 1 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles, other than a motorcycle
  • class 6 type vehicles, for learning only

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Class 2 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that the holder of a Class 3, 4 and 5 operator’s licence may operate
  • any bus
  • classes 1 and 6 type vehicles, for learner only.

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written and road test, and medical report, airbrake certificate for vehicle with airbrakes.

Vehicle for road test: a bus with a seating capacity exceeding 24 including the operator.

Class 3 Licenc e permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles that the holder of a Class 5 operator’s licence may operate a single motor vehicle with three or more axles
  • a motor vehicle with three or more axles towing a trailer with one or more axles, if the trailer is not equipped with airbrakes
  • classes 2 and 4 type vehicles without passengers all motor vehicles included under Class 1, 2 and 6, for learning only

No holder of a Class 3 operator’s licence shall operate a motor vehicle:

  • that has a seating capacity of more than 15, while that vehicle is transporting any person in addition to the operator
  • to transport passengers for hire

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written and road test, airbrake certificate if the vehicle is equipped with airbrakes.

Vehicle for road test: Any single motor vehicle having three or more axles.

Class 4 Licence Permits an operator to drive:

a taxi, ambulance or bus (including school or kindergarten buses) where seating capacity is not over 24, excluding the operator

  • all motor vehicles included under Class 5
  • all motor vehicles included under Classes 1, 2, 3 and 6, for learning only
  • The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written test, medical report, road test required if operator does not hold a class 1, 2 or 3 licence.

Vehicle for road test: any two-axle motor vehicle, excluding a motorcycle.

Class 5 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a two axle single motor vehicle, excluding a motorcycle
  • a two axle motor vehicle towing a trailer with one or more axles, if the trailer is not equipped with airbrakes
  • a recreational vehicle or any combination of a recreational vehicle and a trailer, if the trailer has not more than two axles and is not equipped with airbrakes
  • a moped
  • Classes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 type vehicles, for learning only

No holder of a Class 5 operator’s licence shall operate a motor vehicle:

  • that has a seating capacity of more than 15, while that vehicle is transporting any person in addition to the operator
  • to transport for hire

The minimum learning age is 14.
The minimum licencing age is 16.

Requirements: road test.

Vehicle for road test: any two-axle motor vehicle excluding a motorcycle.

Class 6 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a motorcycle or a moped
  • all motor vehicles under Class 5, for learning only

The minimum learning or licencing age is 16.

Requirements: Written test and vision screening and a road test for applicants with a class 7 or if no licence presented. Written test, vision screening and skill test for applicants with a class 5 or better.

Vehicle for road test: motorcycle without sidecar.

Class 7 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a moped
  • a motor vehicle referred to in the Class 5 category, as a learner only
  • a motorcycle, as a learner only, if the operator is at least 16 years of age

The minimum learning or licencing age is 14.

Requirements: written test and vision screening.

What are the guidelines for parental consent?

If you are applying for a driver’s licence or ID Card for the first time, are under age 18 and not self supporting or married, your parent or guardian must accompany you to the office to sign a Parent/Guardian Consent form.
Your parent or guardian will only have to accompany you our office to sign the form once . Should you not pass your knowledge test, we will stamp the consent form, and ask that you to produce it to us when you come back in to rewrite your knowledge test.

If a guardian is signing your consent rather than your natural parent, the guardian must produce documents to show that they are your legal guardian(s).

Out of Province Clients

If you are moving to Alberta from outside the province and your parent or legal guardian is not available or present in the province, you can arrange for a notarized Parent/Guardian Consent form. We can accept either an original or a faxed copy of the notarized consent form.

Married or Self Supporting

If you are under age 18 and married, you can produce your marriage certificate . Parental consent would not be required in you are legally married. If you are under age 18 and self supporting you must produce proof to verify that you are self supporting such as:

  • Pay stubs
  • Utility bills
  • A letter from your employer
  • Cancelled cheques
  • Bank account information

Parental Consent is not required if you are self supporting.

Withdrawal of Parental Consent

The parent or guardian, who signed the original consent form, can withdraw their consent by sending a written request to:

Alberta Transportation
Driver Fitness and Monitoring
1st Floor, Twin Atria Building
4999 – 98 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB T6B 2X3
(FAX) (780) 422-6612

One Stop Licence Shop has provided this page for your general information only. Policies may change without notice. Contact One Stop Licence Shop for more information.

What do I need to register my vehicle?

To register a vehicle you will require

  • proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will)
  • proof of valid insurance (pink slip in the name of the registrant or policy number, insurance company and expiry date)
  • acceptable identification
  • if the vehicle is new you will also need a new vehicle information statement (NVIS)
  • if the vehicle was imported into Canada, you will require a Vehicle Import Form from Transport Canada

used Vehicles previously registered outside of the province require a safety inspection

Do I need the renewal form that I received in the mail in order to renew my driver's licence and vehicle registration?

No, you are not required to present the renewal form if you don’t have it. Simply present your existing photo licence and / or registration along with your insurance to One Stop Licence Shop and pay the required fee. If non-photo licence is presented, acceptable identification is required.

Do I need a medical report to renew my driver's licence?

A medical report is required when applying for or renewing a class 1, 2 or 4 licences.

In addition, if you have a condition code C (periodic satisfactory medical report) or code D (periodic vision report) on your licence, you must submit a medical report.

If you have a medical condition that may affect your driving ability, you must submit a medical report.

If you are 75 years of age or older you will be required to submit a medical report and provide a vision screening.

My children are not residents of Alberta but are attending school full time in Alberta. Do they have to register their vehicles and change their operator licences in Alberta?

No. Provided they are full time students and the vehicle is registered in their home jurisdiction in their name.

At what age can a person obtain a learner's licence?

In Alberta, an individual must be at least 14 years of age to apply for a learner’s licence with parental consent if under 18.

What is considered acceptable identification to obtain an Alberta driver's licence or identification card?

To ensure that driver’s licences and ID cards are issued to the correct person, all registry agents must follow strict government, identity confirmation requirements. You must satisfy each of the following three categories:

Who you are:

Photo document that MUST contain your legal name and date of birth.

Some examples of acceptable documents include:

  • your driver’s licence or identification card,
  • government issued photo ID,
  • your image on the motor vehicle system,
  • Citizenship, Immigration, Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card,
  • Passport
  • Municipal, Provincial or Federal Police Force ID.

(This list is not inclusive. Contact us if you need assistance.)

What you have:

Support documents that contain two data elements such as name, DOB, signature, address, etc. They should be originals or certified true copies.

Some examples of acceptable documents include:

  • Birth or Marriage Certificate
  • Credit, Debit or Account Card (must contain your name and signature)
  • Municipal, Territorial, Provincial, or Federal Employee card
  • Chequing or savings account statements
  • Cancelled cheque with imprinted name and address
  • Utility, telephone, gas or cable TV bill in the applicants own name
  • Property tax bill or receipt, land title or mortgage documents
  • Income tax receipts
  • Insurance documents (life, auto, home, etc.)

Some examples of unacceptable documents include:

  • Interim/temporary driver’s licence
  • Business cards
  • Cheque cashing cards
  • Library Card
  • Video club membership card
  • Insurance Liability Cards (pink slips)

What you know:

Verification of personal information against the motor vehicle system

Note:

All documents presented must be originals or certified true copies. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Falsifying information while applying for a driver’s licence or identification card is a criminal offence.

What is considered acceptable identification for motor vehicle purposes?

To obtain motor vehicle services you will need either an Alberta operator’s licence, government issued photo ID, or two pieces of identification.

I forgot to renew my driver's licence ­­--- do I need to take a road test?

Not necessarily. If your licence has been expired for less than 3 years you do not need to take a road test to renew it. If it has been expired for 36 months or longer you will need to take both a knowledge and road test.

You cannot use an expired driver’s licence to drive or for identification purposes.

How do I obtain my out of province driver's abstract?

One Stop Licence Shop can help you obtain your out of province driver’s abstract. Complete an Out of Province Abstract Form or contact us and we will order it for you.

How do I obtain my Alberta abstract if I am unable to come into the office in person?

If you are unable to come into the office in person, complete a Letter of Authorization and send someone in to obtain your driver’s abstract on your behalf. The individual you send must produce two pieces of identification and must have your driver’s licence number.

How do I question or make corrections to the information on my driver's abstract?

You will find telephone numbers on the back of your driver’s abstract that can be used to inquire about the traffic violations that appear on your driving record.

Can I take my road test at One Stop Licence Shop?

Road testing is provided by experienced Examiners that have been in the business for many years. Their pleasant, calm and relaxed attitudes are sure to put you at ease. We provide all Classes of tests at both our North and South locations.
Your appointment must be booked at the location that you want to conduct your test:

  • To book at our NORTH location call — 403 341 7867 (press 0 for reception)
  • To book at our SOUTH location call – 403 348 5200

I have recently moved to Alberta. How do I exchange my out of province driver's licence for an Alberta driver's licence?

If you have moved to Alberta you must surrender your out-of-province driver’s licence within 3 months. You will be asked to provide proof of Alberta residency, Canadian citizenship or immigration documents, acceptable identification and will be asked to take a vision test.

Driver’s who are over age 75, or have a medical condition that may affect the safe operation of a vehicle, will be asked to provide a medical examination form.

What do I need to register a vehicle that is coming in from a province outside Alberta?

To register an out-of-province vehicle you will be asked to provide the following:

Acceptable identification

  • Proof of Ownership ( bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will)
  • Proof of Insurance (pink slip in the same name as the applicant or policy number, insurance company and expiry date)
  • An out-of-province safety inspection (by an authorized mechanic)

If the vehicle is coming from outside of Canada you will also need to produce a Canada Customs Vehicle Import Form. To obtain additional information about importing a vehicle into Canada refer to Registrar of Imported Vehicles or Canada Customs web sites.

How do I transfer my vehicle registration to another vehicle?

To transfer a vehicle you will require:

  • proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale , lease agreement, previous registration or will),
  • proof of valid insurance (pink card in the same name as registrant)
  • acceptable identification
  • if the vehicle is new you will need a new vehicle information statement (NVIS),
  • if the vehicle was imported into Canada, you will require a Vehicle Import Form from Transport Canada
  • used Vehicles previously registered outside of the province require a safety inspection

Can I use the plate that was left on the vehicle that I purchased?

No, that plate is already registered to another person. The previous owner should have retained or cancelled the plate if they did not plan on transferring it to their new vehicle. You can return the plate to One Stop Licence Shop and we will ensure that it is disposed of properly. You will need to purchase your own plate and vehicle registration.

Should I cancel my registration when I sell my vehicle?

If you do not plan on transferring your plate and registration to a new vehicle then yes, you should cancel your plate and registration. All traffic convictions and tickets assigned to your plate are your responsibility. Cancelling your plate or advising One Stop Licence Shop if it is lost or stolen can be very important. Doing so will ensure that it does not get into the wrong hands.

What are the different driver's licence classes ?

Class 1 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles, other than a motorcycle
  • class 6 type vehicles, for learning only

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Class 2 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that the holder of a Class 3, 4 and 5 operator’s licence may operate
  • any bus
  • classes 1 and 6 type vehicles, for learner only.

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written and road test, and medical report, airbrake certificate for vehicle with airbrakes.

Vehicle for road test: a bus with a seating capacity exceeding 24 including the operator.

Class 3 Licenc e permits an operator to drive:

  • any motor vehicle, or combination of vehicles that the holder of a Class 5 operator’s licence may operate a single motor vehicle with three or more axles
  • a motor vehicle with three or more axles towing a trailer with one or more axles, if the trailer is not equipped with airbrakes
  • classes 2 and 4 type vehicles without passengers all motor vehicles included under Class 1, 2 and 6, for learning only

No holder of a Class 3 operator’s licence shall operate a motor vehicle:

  • that has a seating capacity of more than 15, while that vehicle is transporting any person in addition to the operator
  • to transport passengers for hire

The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written and road test, airbrake certificate if the vehicle is equipped with airbrakes.

Vehicle for road test: Any single motor vehicle having three or more axles.

Class 4 Licence Permits an operator to drive:

a taxi, ambulance or bus (including school or kindergarten buses) where seating capacity is not over 24, excluding the operator

  • all motor vehicles included under Class 5
  • all motor vehicles included under Classes 1, 2, 3 and 6, for learning only
  • The minimum learning or licencing age is 18.

Requirements: vision screening, written test, medical report, road test required if operator does not hold a class 1, 2 or 3 licence.

Vehicle for road test: any two-axle motor vehicle, excluding a motorcycle.

Class 5 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a two axle single motor vehicle, excluding a motorcycle
  • a two axle motor vehicle towing a trailer with one or more axles, if the trailer is not equipped with airbrakes
  • a recreational vehicle or any combination of a recreational vehicle and a trailer, if the trailer has not more than two axles and is not equipped with airbrakes
  • a moped
  • Classes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 type vehicles, for learning only

No holder of a Class 5 operator’s licence shall operate a motor vehicle:

  • that has a seating capacity of more than 15, while that vehicle is transporting any person in addition to the operator
  • to transport for hire

The minimum learning age is 14.
The minimum licencing age is 16.

Requirements: road test.

Vehicle for road test: any two-axle motor vehicle excluding a motorcycle.

Class 6 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a motorcycle or a moped
  • all motor vehicles under Class 5, for learning only

The minimum learning or licencing age is 16.

Requirements: Written test and vision screening and a road test for applicants with a class 7 or if no licence presented. Written test, vision screening and skill test for applicants with a class 5 or better.

Vehicle for road test: motorcycle without sidecar.

Class 7 Licence permits an operator to drive:

  • a moped
  • a motor vehicle referred to in the Class 5 category, as a learner only
  • a motorcycle, as a learner only, if the operator is at least 16 years of age

The minimum learning or licencing age is 14.

Requirements: written test and vision screening.

What are the guidelines for parental consent?

If you are applying for a driver’s licence or ID Card for the first time, are under age 18 and not self supporting or married, your parent or guardian must accompany you to the office to sign a Parent/Guardian Consent form.
Your parent or guardian will only have to accompany you our office to sign the form once . Should you not pass your knowledge test, we will stamp the consent form, and ask that you to produce it to us when you come back in to rewrite your knowledge test.

If a guardian is signing your consent rather than your natural parent, the guardian must produce documents to show that they are your legal guardian(s).

Out of Province Clients

If you are moving to Alberta from outside the province and your parent or legal guardian is not available or present in the province, you can arrange for a notarized Parent/Guardian Consent form. We can accept either an original or a faxed copy of the notarized consent form.

Married or Self Supporting

If you are under age 18 and married, you can produce your marriage certificate . Parental consent would not be required in you are legally married. If you are under age 18 and self supporting you must produce proof to verify that you are self supporting such as:

  • Pay stubs
  • Utility bills
  • A letter from your employer
  • Cancelled cheques
  • Bank account information

Parental Consent is not required if you are self supporting.

Withdrawal of Parental Consent

The parent or guardian, who signed the original consent form, can withdraw their consent by sending a written request to:

Alberta Transportation
Driver Fitness and Monitoring
1st Floor, Twin Atria Building
4999 – 98 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB T6B 2X3
(FAX) (780) 422-6612

One Stop Licence Shop has provided this page for your general information only. Policies may change without notice. Contact One Stop Licence Shop for more information.

I have a very small business. Should I form a corporation or should I register a trade name?

We suggest that you seek legal advice if you are not sure if you should have a trade name or a corporation. A lawyer will help you decide which is best for your business. It is very important for you to know your legal rights and liabilities. Our staff can’t give legal advice. One Stop Licence Shop does carry Legal Ease publications that have been published by an Alberta lawyer. These helpful kits may also be useful to you.

What's the difference between a trade name (sole proprietorship) and a corporation?

Trade names are business names registered to an individual or a corporation. You must register a trade name through an authorized service provider if you or your business:

  • is engaged in business for trading, manufacturing, contracting or mining purposes
  • is not associated in partnership with any other person or persons
  • uses as his business name some name or designation other than his own
  • uses his own name with the addition of “and company” or some other word or phrase indicating a plurality of members in the firm.

If I register a trade name, can anybody else use that name?

Many people can use the same trade name. Registering the name in Alberta does not mean that you own that name. You could have legal problems if you use a name that is the same, or nearly the same, as an existing trade name, partnership name, corporation name, or trade mark. Choose your trade name carefully.

We recommend you get an Alberta Business Name Report (also known as NUANS report to see if the name is already in use. You can get a name search report from One Stop Licence Shop. Your trade name cannot contain: “Limited”, “Incorporated”, “Corporation”, or “Limited Partnership”, or any version of these words.

Is there any government office that can give me information about starting a small business?

You can get information on starting a small business by calling The Business Link – The Business Service Centre – at (780) 422-7722.

Their web site address is http://www.cbsc.org/alberta/.

This page is a joint initiative of Western Economic Diversification Canada, Economic Development Edmonton and Alberta Economic Development.

The federal Business Development Bank (780) 495-2277 also offers advice to small businesses.

One Stop Licence Shop can also provide you with useful information, services and products to help you start a business. For example, Legal Ease publications, minute books, corporate seals, business insurance, NUANS searches and Corporate Registry filing services. We are the “one stop” for people on the go.

What is a corporation?

The Business Corporations Act defines a corporation as “a body corporate incorporated or continued under this Act and not discontinued under this Act”. A corporation has the capacity, and, subject to the Business Corporations Act, the rights, powers and privileges of a natural person. A corporation has the capacity to carry on its business, conduct its affairs and exercise its powers in any jurisdiction outside Alberta to the extent that the laws of that jurisdiction permit.

What is a corporate annual return? Does it have anything to do with taxes?

An annual return is information that the corporation must file for the year ending on the anniversary date of its incorporation or registration, or otherwise coming under the authority of the Business Corporations Act. A corporate annual return details:

  • the corporate access number
  • the name of the corporation
  • the corporation address
  • the applicable period the report applies to
  • whether changes have been made to the directors
  • a list of shareholders, their addresses, and what percentage of voting shares they hold.
  • A Corporate Registry Annual Return has nothing to do with taxes. Contact Corporate Tax within the federal government or Alberta Corporate Tax at Alberta Treasury for more information on filing a corporate tax return.

How long do I have to file an annual return?

An annual return is due no later than the last day of the month following the anniversary month. For example, if the corporation was incorporated in June 1995, its annual return would be due no later than July 31, 1996 and all years ending July 31 thereafter.

What will happen if I do not file my annual return?

Your corporation will eventually be struck from the register. For example, if the annual return was due June 1995 and it is not filed with the Registrar, the corporation would be struck off the register December 1, 1996.

How do I register to become a charitable organization?

Registration of charitable organizations in Alberta is governed by the Charitable Fund-Raising Act. It lays out rules that must be followed when asking for contributions from Albertan’s. If your organization is soliciting contributions for a charitable purpose, you may be required to register with Government Services. For more information please contact the Consumer Division.

The federal government grants charitable status for tax purposes. Call Revenue Canada – Charities Division Ottawa at 1-800-267-2384.

How do I find the "status" of a Corporation?

Contact us to obtain a Certificate of Status search.

What is the difference between an incorporated name search and a business name search?

The incorporated name search is reserved for 90 days for the exclusive use of the person requesting it. The business name search looks at similar names but the name being searched is not reserved.

Can I mail my documents to the Personal Property Registry for registration and/or a search?

No, documents can be sent to One Stop Licence Shop. Our professional team will be pleased to process them for you.

Can I mail my documents to the Personal Property Registry for registration and/or a search?

No, not on the Alberta Personal Property database. A search must be performed in the province where the interest is registered. However, One Stop Licence Shop has access to every provincial database in Canada. Be sure to specify which provincial databases you want us to search. We will be pleased to do an out-of-province lien search for you.

How can I tell what the registration date is of a registered document?

Consider the following example – registration number 99081203457

  • the first two digits are the year – 99 (1999)
  • the third and fourth digits are the month – 08 (August)
  • the fifth and sixth digits are the day of the month – 12

The full 11 digits together constitute a registration number. Each registration number is unique and is not duplicated. Each and every document is assigned a new number reflecting the date.

How do you enter the debtor name for the estate of a deceased person?

On a registration, select ‘B’ (Other) for the field titled ‘Name Type’. Record the first name, middle name and last name of the deceased followed by the word ‘Estate’.

The federal Business Development Bank (780) 495-2277 also offers advice to small businesses.

One Stop Licence Shop can also provide you with useful information, services and products to help you start a business. For example, Legal Ease publications, minute books, corporate seals, business insurance, NUANS searches and Corporate Registry filing services. We are the “one stop” for people on the go.

Is there a fee for a discharge?

Yes, One Stop Licence Shop charges a service fee of $6.00.

Why does the garage keeper have to file the lien within 21 days?

The Garage Keepers’ Lien Act specifies 21 days.

A garage keeper has failed to register his interest within 21 days from the date he released the vehicle. What can he do now?

The garage keeper may make application to the Civil Division of the Provincial Court to file a civil claim by contacting the Clerk of the Court.

What can a garage keeper do if he does not have a Court Order to extend the time of the lien and the registration expires tomorrow?

The garage keeper may make application to the Civil Division of the Provincial Court to file a civil claim by contacting the Clerk of the Court.

Why can't a farm vehicle be registered as the serial # collateral for some types of registration?

A farm vehicle (category code FV) is defined only in the Garage Keepers’ Lien Act.  Because of this, a FV is only recognized when registering a Garage Keepers’ Lien, or other registrations that are associated with a Garage Keepers’ Lien ( i.e. Writ of Enforcement, Attachment Order, Court Order ).

I have paid my mortgage off, how do I remove it from my title?

Generally a discharge document will be sent to you from the lending institution. Forward the original discharge document along with the prescribed Land Title Fees to the Land Titles Office for registration.

What are the different types of land ownership?

There are three common types of land ownership.

  • Sole Ownership – either a person or a registered company is the sole owner of the land.
  • Tenancy-in-Common – in this type of ownership there are two or more owners called tenants-in-common. When a tenant-in-common dies, that person’s share in the land goes to his or her estate, not automatically to the other co-owner(s).
  • Joint Tenancy – this type of ownership also involves two or more owners but each owner has the right of survivorship. When one owner dies, that person’s interest automatically passes to the other owner(s).

If you wish to become a joint tenant you must specify this on the transfer document, otherwise, you will automatically become a tenant-in-common.

One of the registered owners has died, how can their name be removed from the title?

  • If it is a Joint Tenancy ownership, a statutory declaration may be completed by the surviving joint tenant or some other party who is able to declare the necessary facts. An original death certificate issued by the Vital Statistics Registry, Medical Examiner’s certificate, funeral director’s certificate, cremation certificate or by a comparable authority if the death occurred outside Alberta must accompany the declaration. The original death certificate will be returned to you.
  • If it is a Tenants-in-Common ownership or Sole Ownership an Application for Transmission on Death form may be completed. An original or court certified copy of the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration under seal of the Surrogate Court of Alberta must be attached to the application. A notarized copy or photocopy is unacceptable. If it is issued from a court in a jurisdiction other than Alberta, it must be re-sealed by the Surrogate Court of Alberta.

In either situation, the appropriate documents must be submitted for registration to Land Titles along with the associated Land Titles Fees.

How do I add my spouse's name to my title?

A Transfer of Land form must be completed and submitted for registration to Land Titles along with the associated Land Titles Fees.

Do I require my spouse's consent in order to dispose of an interest in my property?

Yes. The Alberta Dower Act gives both spouses the right to prevent a disposition of their homestead, regardless of whose name appears on the title. A homestead is defined as a parcel of land on which you live and can consist of up to four adjoining lots in a city, town, or village or not more than one quarter section elsewhere.

If you are married and wish to dispose of an interest, you must first obtain your spouse’s consent or obtain an order of the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta, which allows you to dispose of your interest in land without your spouse’s consent.

What is the difference between a copy of title and a Certified Copy of a title?

A copy of title, also known as a title search, shows who the registered owner is, the legal description of the land, and any instruments registered against the land.

A certified copy of title contains the same information as a title search, except it is certified under seal. One of the main reasons for requesting a certified copy of title is for court purposes. Many financial institutions require a certified copy of title prior to advancing funds on a mortgage.

Copies and certified copies of titles are available from One Stop Licence Shop.

Who can file a Builders' Lien?

Any person who does work in respect of an improvement or furnishes any material to be used in an improvement for an owner, contractor or subcontractor has a lien on the estate or interest of the owner of the land in respect of which the improvement is being made. The lien is created when the work is started or the first material is furnished but ceases to exist if it is not registered within the time period provided by the act.

The time limit is within 45 days of when the work was completed or the materials were last furnished (or 90 days if in respect to an oil or gas well or well site). The lien must be for a minimum amount of $300.

You must know the legal description of the property and complete a Statement of Lien form, which is available from the Land Titles office. The completed form along with the prescribed fees can be submitted to Land Titles for registration. A builders’ lien against untitled minerals can only be registered with the Minister of Resource Development.

Where can I get a copy of a Real Property Report?

A Real Property Report is a legal document that illustrates the location of all visible public and private improvements relative to property boundaries. A registered Alberta Land Surveyor is the only individual who can legally prepare a Real Property Report.

Visit Alberta Land Surveyors Association home page or see your local Yellow Pages directory under Surveyors – Alberta Land for the names of registered land surveyors working in your area.

Where can I get copies of aerial photos?

You can obtain aerial photos from :

Air Photo Services
Main floor
9920-108 Street
Edmonton, Alberta, T5K 2M4,
Phone: (780) 427-3520
Fax: (780) 422-9683.

Where do I get a Certificate of Incorporation for a Condominium corporation?

Pursuant to the Condominium Property Act, a corporation under the name ” Condominium Corporation No.__________ ” (the number to be specified being the number given to the plan on registration) is created on the registration of a condominium plan.

The Companies Act and the Business Corporation Act do not apply to a condominium corporation. A copy of a plan and a copy of the additional sheet are sufficient to prove the formation of the corporation.

Where do I get a copy of the Registered Condominium By-Laws?

You may obtain a copy of registered by-law changes from One Stop Licence Shop. The plan number of the registered condominium is required to obtain a search of the condominium additional sheet. This search will reveal any registered changes of by-laws.

NOTE : If there are no changes registered, the by-laws in the Condominium Property Act govern.

How do I go about subdividing my land?

An application to subdivide land must be made with the subdivision authority. Check with the municipality in which the land proposed to be subdivided is located regarding the application form and the procedure to follow.

I have multiple lots in my title. Do I need subdivision approval to issue separate titles for each lot?

It depends on when the plan was registered. If the plan was registered prior to July 1, 1950, then subdivision approval will be required. Any plan number prior to 1966HW in the Edmonton Land Titles office or any Plan number prior to GD series in the Calgary Land Titles office will require subdivision approval. If the plan was registered after July 1, 1950, only full lots can be transferred without subdivision approval.

How do I consolidate two or more lots on one title?

There are three methods by which lots may be consolidated.

  1. By registering a Consolidation of Title form, a Certificate of Title can be issued with all the lots in one title (e.g., Plan 9520001, Block 1, Lots 1 to 3). You must remember that if you change your mind and want separate titles later, subdivision approval is required if the plan was registered prior to July 1, 1950. This method only applies if the lots are in the same plan and block. If not, see method number three.
  2. You may apply to the municipality for a by-law authorizing Land Titles to cancel the lots and create a new lot. The effect of the by-law is to delete the dividing line between the lots and make it into one parcel. This method only applies if the lots are in the same plan and block. If not, see method number three.
  3. You may have an Alberta Land Surveyor prepare a plan of survey or descriptive plan of survey consolidating the lots. For this method, the lots may be on the same plan or different plans, and may include an un – subdivided parcel, closed roads, etc.

Check with your municipality as to the best method to achieve your objective.

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