Transport Canada is leading the initiative to update the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations with the aim of aligning the regulations with international standards and simplifying compliance for manufacturers and vehicle importers. The public consultation is open and will close on 23rd September, 2025.
1. Removing Dates From Test Method References
A significant amendment is the removal of dates from the eight test methods under the MVSR, including those for built-in restraint systems, school bus structure strength, rear-impact guards, and LPG/CNG fuel system integrity. Removing the dates will ensure the regulation is aligned with the most recent test methods and will ensure the relevant safety requirements are met.
2. Simplifying Transition Provisions
There are several outdated transition provisions in the MVSR—sections that refer to phased-in dates that have passed a long time ago. It is proposed by Transport Canada to either delete or modify these provisions to remove obsolete schedules. The proposed changes will make the regulation easier to read and maintain.
3. Revising Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) Systems Requirements
CMVSS 108 for vehicle lighting incorporates SAE J3069 for Adaptive Driving Beam Systems as of June 2016. The amendment proposes updating this to the March 2021 version and considers the removal of the version-specific references to allow future updates. Input is being sought from manufacturers on their use of SAE J3069 and whether the references should change to a more flexible format.
4. Fixing Unit Conversion Issues In Visibility Requirements
In CMVSS 111 (Mirrors and Visibility Systems), there are inconsistencies between metric and imperial systems. The proposed fix amends 2.5 metres to 2.4 metres and 10.6 metres to 10.7 metres to align Canada’s requirements more closely with U.S. safety standards.
5. Merging Noise Emission Rules With The UN
The other planned updates fix the outdated references of the U.N. rules on noise emissions so that they align with the current international regulations and support unified vehicle safety regulations worldwide.
Enhancing Safety Through Clarity And Consistency
These updates aim to modernize the regulations while simplifying compliance. The elimination of date marks and obsolete timetables leads to a more flexible set of rules, which helps both the manufacturers and the general public safety. Since the consultation is still open until September 23, 2025, stakeholders are invited to give their feedback.
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