Automobiles

In Nova Scotia, most people find it necessary to own a car. This is especially true if you choose to live outside the larger metropolitan cities. Of course, if you need a car but choose not to buy one, you can rent any kind of car you might need.

Automotive Fuel (Gasoline)

Along with the maintenance and repair costs that are involved with operating a vehicle, there is also the cost of automotive fuel. Most cars in Nova Scotia run on unleaded gasoline, though some do use diesel fuel. The cost of fuel in Canada is usually a bit more than the cost of fuel in the United States, but less than the cost in Europe.

Automotive Insurance

In Nova Scotia, it is illegal to drive a car without being insured. Insurance protects you in the event of an accident, your car is stolen, or if your car sustains damage.

Driver's License and Car Registration In Nova Scotia

You must have a valid driver's license to drive a motor vehicle. Licenses from some countries are recognized in Nova Scotia, but some are not. You may be required to take a written test and a road test to be issued with a valid Nova Scotia driver’s license. For more information visit Registry of Motor Vehicles.

If you own a car, truck or motorcycle, you must register your motor vehicle and obtain a license plate from the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Registry of Motor Vehicles Service Centres can be found throughout Nova Scotia.

Driver and Public Safety

To protect drivers from serious injury, Nova Scotia has passed a law making the use of seatbelts mandatory. Failure to use a seatbelt by all passengers will result in a substantial fine.

Nova Scotia also requires, by law, infant car seats, child seats and booster seats for all children who are BOTH under the age of 9 years and under 145 cm (4’9”) tall. Again, failure to comply with these laws will result in a substantial fine.

Car Rental

Cars, vans and trucks can be rented from many different companies in Nova Scotia. There are some general requirements to be met before renting. Please check with the rental company for their individual policies. You must be 21 years of age to rent a car, your driving record will be checked by the rental company and you must provide a valid drivers license and credit card.

Vehicle Safety

Nova Scotia law requires that all licensed and registered vehicles in the province undergo a thorough safety inspection every year. A car without a valid inspection sticker on its windshield is subject to fines.

Buying a Car

Purchasing a new or used car in Nova Scotia can sometimes be a challenging task. There are many options to consider when purchasing a vehicle. Whether you want to buy new or used, purchase or lease, and the type of vehicle.

Buying a new car from a dealership usually means that you might pay more money than if you buy a used car, but you get a car that will have fairly low maintenance for the first few years.

Buying a used car can sometimes save you a lot of money. There are many used cars with low mileage that are in good condition. They can give you years of repair free driving without having to pay the ‘brand new’ dealer prices.