This page contains information related to the Traffic Safety Act that is not currently in effect. This information is provided to help Nova Scotians prepare for the Traffic Safety Act, expected to take effect in 2026. Continue to follow the Motor Vehicle Act until then.
Dealerships
The Traffic Safety Act (TSA) passed in the Nova Scotia Legislature in October 2025 and will come into effect in 2026. The Act will modernize the rules of the road and improve safety for Nova Scotians on roads and highways across the province. The Act will replace the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA), in place since the early 1900s. The Traffic Safety Act has greater flexibility, enabling government to respond more quickly to modern and evolving transportation needs.
This page highlights the key changes that will affect dealerships and explains what these changes mean for your operations. The goal is to provide clear, straightforward information so you can prepare for the transition.
If you have any questions or require clarification, contact the TSA team at tsa@novascotia.ca.
Upcoming changes that will impact dealerships
Dealer requirements
What is being changed
TSA has standardized operational requirements for regulated vehicle businesses, including dealerships:
- dealers must keep records, paper or digital, for three years
- notification to the Registrar of change of ownership moving to 10 days from 14 days
- requirement for regular business hours and signage moved to the regulations
- new offences include:
- an offence for issuing temporary permits to vehicles they do not own or are selling
- an offence for when dealerships are not aware of the locations of their dealer plates
Action required
No action is required. This is for awareness only.
Regulated vehicle activities
What is being changed
The TSA groups several businesses together (dealerships, Motor Vehicle Inspection (MVI) stations, driving schools and commercial carriers) under a new licensing category called Regulated Vehicle Activities.
The following processes will be introduced:
- formalizing the ability for the Registrar to suspend a vehicle activity licence
- establishing clear requirements for reinstatement if suspended
- cancelation of a vehicle activity licence if the licence is being used contrary to the act or public interest
Licences issued under the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) will remain valid until they expire.
Action required
No action is required. This is for awareness only.