New Brunswick is set to modernize its vehicle registration system by eliminating licence plate renewal stickers, aligning with most other Canadian provinces and territories. If approved by the legislature, the change will see the removal of the annual renewal stickers that vehicle owners currently purchase.
Service New Brunswick Minister Aaron Kennedy highlighted that this move brings the province in line with modern digital practices, stating that stickers are outdated in today’s digital age. Despite the absence of physical stickers, New Brunswick drivers will still be required to renew their registrations online or in person. They will have the option to obtain a proof of registration document to carry in their vehicles.
While the visual indicator of an expired vehicle will no longer be present, Kennedy reassured that law enforcement can verify registration status by running licence plate checks. He expressed confidence in New Brunswickers’ compliance with registration requirements.
Vehicle owners will receive renewal reminders via mail or text under the new system. The transition away from stickers will apply to all vehicle types in the province, including off-road and commercial vehicles, while motor vehicle inspection stickers on windshields remain unaffected.
This change marks a significant shift from the tradition of using stickers on New Brunswick licence plates for over six decades. The proposed legislation aims to implement the new system in the spring, following legislative approval. The move is considered more of an administrative adjustment rather than an operational change by the RCMP, who already have mechanisms in place to verify registrations efficiently.
In previous years, New Brunswick has made adjustments to licence plate regulations, such as eliminating front licence plate requirements in 2019. The province’s decision to move away from traditional stickers reflects a broader trend towards digital solutions in vehicle registration across Canada.