NOVA SCOTIA — A new provincial levy on electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles took effect October 1, adding to regular registration charges.

Owners of battery-electric passenger vehicles, light trucks and vans under 5,001 kilograms now pay $500 with a two-year vehicle permit. Plug-in hybrid owners pay $250. Conventional hybrids that cannot be plugged in are exempt.

The province says the levy is intended to make drivers who buy less or no gasoline contribute to road construction and maintenance. It was approved in April as part of Nova Scotia’s 2026–27 budget.

When drivers pay

The charge applies when an eligible vehicle is first registered and when its permit is renewed. Owners who sell partway through a permit period may qualify for a partial refund, alongside any registration-fee refund.

The levy does not apply to electric motorcycles, off-highway vehicles or vehicles registered over 5,000 kilograms. Drivers should confirm their own vehicle classification and renewal date through the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

Sources: Nova Scotia government news release, September 25; official levy guide.

Lead image: TNC archive AI-generated illustration of an electric-vehicle battery project; not a Nova Scotia registration office or specific vehicle.