Regulations
Buying a Used Snowmobile, ATV or Spyder from a Private Seller: What to Check
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published November 12, 2026
Quick Answer
What should I check before buying a used vehicle from a private seller in Quebec?
Check the Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights (RDPRM) that no debt is registered on the vehicle: otherwise the creditor could take it back even after the sale. Then make sure the seller is the registered owner and the serial number matches the papers. For a snowmobile, ATV or trailer, the transfer is done in person at the SAAQ, not online.
Buying from a private seller can cost less, but the buyer takes on the checks. This guide sums up the steps to take before paying, according to Éducaloi and the SAAQ.
1. Check for Liens at the RDPRM
The RDPRM is a public register, searchable for a fee. It shows whether a loan or other charge is registered against an item. According to Éducaloi, if the vehicle isn't fully paid off, the creditor has the right to take it back, even though you've become its owner.
Do the search right before paying, not a week before: a debt can be registered in the meantime.
2. Check the Seller and the Serial Number
- The name on the registration certificate must be the seller's, with ID.
- The serial number on the frame must match the one on the papers.
- Ask for maintenance and repair invoices.
- For a motorcycle or Spyder, the SAAQ offers a vehicle history (number of owners, rebuilt vehicle, etc.), for a fee.
3. Inspect the Vehicle
- Start the engine cold and listen to it; watch for smoke and unusual noises.
- Look for oil or coolant leaks.
- Snowmobile: condition of the track, carbides, skis and belt. ATV or side-by-side: tires, suspension, brakes.
- Look for signs of a crash or repair on the frame and panels.
- If in doubt, have a technician inspect the vehicle before buying.
4. The Transfer and Taxes
According to the SAAQ, online transfer in SAAQclic isn't available for a snowmobile, ATV, other off-road vehicle or trailer: it's done at an SAAQ service point. Check the SAAQ website for the documents to bring and the fees.
For a road vehicle sold between individuals, such as a motorcycle, the SAAQ collects QST at registration, on the higher of the sale price or the estimated value, and there's no GST. For an off-road vehicle, confirm the applicable taxes with the SAAQ.
Buying from a Dealer: What Changes
- A merchant is subject to Quebec's Consumer Protection Act.
- The dealer handles the paperwork and registration with you.
- You can trade in your vehicle and finance the purchase.
- See our used vehicles at all 5 branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check the Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights (RDPRM) that no debt is registered on the vehicle: otherwise the creditor could take it back even after the sale. Then make sure the seller is the registered owner and the serial number matches the papers. For a snowmobile, ATV or trailer, the transfer is done in person at the SAAQ, not online.
According to Éducaloi, the creditor can take the vehicle back, even though you paid for it and own it. That's why the RDPRM search is done before paying.
No. According to the SAAQ, online transfer isn't available for snowmobiles, ATVs, other off-road vehicles and trailers; it's done at a service point.
Yes, to ride on federated trails. See our guides on the FCMQ trail permit and on registration.
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