What Is a CVOR Number?
A CVOR number is your Commercial Vehicle Operator's Registration certificate number, issued by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) under the Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. H.8, Section 16.
Every individual or company operating commercial motor vehicles exceeding 4,500 kg registered gross weight in Ontario must hold a valid CVOR certificate. The CVOR number follows a standard format: XX-XXX-XXX (two digits, three digits, three digits). This number identifies your carrier profile in MTO's safety monitoring system.
Official Sources
How to Find Your CVOR Number
Check Your CVOR Certificate
Your CVOR number appears on the original certificate issued by MTO. Keep a copy in your office and in each power unit. The number is in XX-XXX-XXX format at the top of the certificate.
Contact MTO Carrier Sanctions
Call MTO Carrier Sanctions & Investigation Office directly. Toronto: 416-246-7166. Toll-free: 1-800-387-7736. They can confirm your CVOR number, certificate status, and abstract.
Ontario.ca Online
Visit ontario.ca/page/commercial-vehicle-operators-registration for information on applying for, renewing, or confirming your CVOR. Note that CVOR numbers are not publicly searchable — you must contact MTO directly.
Check Your Cab Card
Your CVOR cab card (carried in each vehicle) displays the CVOR number. If you have a cab card but no certificate copy, the number is the same.
CVOR Number Decals
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CVOR Number Display Requirements
Under the Highway Traffic Act and Ontario Regulation 424/97, your CVOR number must be permanently displayed on every power unit:
Common Questions About CVOR Numbers
Is the CVOR number the same as the carrier profile number?
Yes. Your CVOR certificate number and your MTO carrier profile number are the same. This number tracks your safety record, inspections, collisions, and convictions in MTO's system.
Do I need a CVOR for a pickup truck?
Only if the vehicle has a registered gross weight exceeding 4,500 kg. Most standard pickup trucks fall below this threshold. However, if you add a plow, dump insert, or heavy equipment that pushes the GVW over 4,500 kg, a CVOR is required.
How long does a CVOR last?
A CVOR certificate does not expire. However, you must notify MTO of any changes to your fleet, address, or ownership. MTO may suspend or cancel a CVOR based on your carrier safety rating.
Penalties for Missing CVOR Numbers
Operating without proper CVOR number display carries serious consequences:
- ✕Vehicle placed out of service immediately at roadside inspection
- ✕Fines of $200 to $2,000 per offence under O.Reg 199/07
- ✕Violation recorded on your CVOR abstract
- ✕Carrier safety rating affected — impacts insurance rates
- ✕Repeat violations can trigger a facility audit by MTO
- ✕Each vehicle missing lettering is a separate offence
Related Compliance Guides
Quick Reference Checklist
Verify these items before every trip:
- CVOR number matches your current certificate exactly
- Number displayed on both sides of the power unit
- Lettering is minimum 50 mm (2 inches) in height
- Contrasting colour to the vehicle body
- Permanently affixed — not magnetic or temporary
- Registered owner name displayed on both sides
- GVW displayed in kilograms
- Lettering is clean, legible, and not faded or peeling
CVOR Number Decals
From $49.99 CAD — Ships 1-2 business days
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