Glossary
AMVIC
Automotive Business Regulation (Alberta)
Definition: Alberta's automotive business regulator — all vehicle dealers in Alberta must be licensed with AMVIC and comply with its advertising, disclosure, and conduct standards.
What AMVIC regulates
AMVIC — Automotive Business Regulation — is the Alberta regulator for automotive businesses, administered under the Tourism Levy Act and the Automotive Business Regulation. Any business or individual who sells, exchanges, or offers to sell motor vehicles in Alberta as part of a business requires an AMVIC automotive business license.
AMVIC's scope is broader than just dealers — it also covers automotive repair facilities, salvage dealers, and consignment sellers. As a used car dealer, you require a Dealer class license.
Key differences from Ontario's OMVIC
Both OMVIC and AMVIC require dealer licensing, mandatory training, and ongoing compliance with advertising and disclosure standards. Key differences: AMVIC operates under different legislation and has its own course requirements (the Industry Conduct and Practice Course). Alberta has no provincial sales tax — only the 5% federal GST applies, making Alberta vehicles less expensive than comparable vehicles in HST provinces.
AMVIC also requires dealers to contribute to the AMVIC Assurance Fund — a consumer protection fund that compensates buyers in cases of dealer fraud or misrepresentation. This fund is unique to Alberta and is built into the licensing fee structure.
What Alberta dealers must do
Complete the mandatory AMVIC course before applying for a license. Secure and pass a site inspection of your business location. Display your AMVIC license number at your place of business and in all advertising. Provide written disclosures of known defects before every sale. Renew annually.
AMVIC conducts unannounced inspections of licensed businesses. Maintaining compliant records and practices at all times — not just when an inspection is expected — is the only reliable approach.
Common questions
Do I need an AMVIC license to sell cars from home in Alberta?
If you are selling vehicles as part of a business (regularly buying and reselling for profit), yes — you need an AMVIC license regardless of whether you operate from a commercial lot or another type of location. Residential properties typically do not qualify as an approved business location.
What is the AMVIC Assurance Fund?
The AMVIC Assurance Fund compensates consumers who suffer financial loss due to fraudulent or dishonest conduct by a licensed automotive business. It is funded by dealer license fees and provides a safety net for buyers dealing with AMVIC-licensed businesses.
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