Ohio License Plates: How to Get, Transfer, and Replace Them
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An Ohio license plate is a must for Ohio drivers, whether it's a standard or custom license plate in Ohio. This guide shares information on obtaining, transferring, and replacing license plates as well as license plate designs, specialty plates, special interest plates, vehicle details, and more for vehicle owners in Ohio.
Requirements for New Vehicle Registration in Ohio
If you are looking to get a new Ohio license plate or manage vehicle registration for the first time, you will need the following documents:
- A financial responsibility statement that proves you can pay for potential damages if you cause a car accident. This can include your car insurance policy, a bond, a certificate of self-insurance, or an Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles certificate that shows you have deposited $30,000 with the state's treasurer.
- An Ohio Certificate of Title
- An Ohio driver's license and proof of Social Security number
- If you live in certain counties in northwest Ohio, you will also need to provide an E-check certificate that shows proof of emissions testing.
Finally, if you are leasing your motor vehicle, you will also need to show a copy of the lease agreement and power of attorney.
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Ohio License Plates
License plates in Ohio can be obtained by completing these steps:
- Visit an Ohio deputy registrar license agency to sign a proof of Financial Responsibility statement.
- Go to an Ohio County of Clerks title office to complete an Ohio Certificate of Title that shows vehicle identification.
- Present your Ohio driver's license, proof of auto insurance, and proof of Social Security number.
- Provide your E-check certificate, if you live in a Northwest Ohio county that requires proof of emissions testing.
Transferring License Plates Between Vehicles
To transfer a license plate between vehicles, you will first need to complete the Duplicate Registration Card, Transfer Replacements Plates/Validation Sticker Application form from the Ohio Department of Public Safety Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Then, pay the $6 transfer fee at an Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles location.
While license plates typically transfer when you sell a car, you may also need a plate transfer if you have moved to Ohio from out of state or purchased a new car.
Replacing Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License Plates
Here are the steps to take if your Ohio license plates have been lost, stolen, or damaged:
- If your plates were stolen, make sure that you first file a police report. It is also important to maintain a comprehensive vehicle history.
- Complete the Duplicate Registration Card, Transfer Replacements Plates/Validation Sticker Application form and pay the required $12 fee for one license plate or $13.25 for two.
- You can either visit an Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles location in person or use the Bureau of Motor Vehicles' online services to submit the form and fee.
Exploring Ohio's Specialty and Personalized Plate Options
The Buckeye State has a wealth of Ohio license plate options when it comes to specialty and personalized license plates that go beyond standard plate design to incorporate personal interests and passions. These are some options for customized license plates in Ohio:
- Special interest plates: You can make a special request for specialized interest plates that support a group or cause you care about. These plates will incur extra fees, unless they are related to military service. Ohio also has a large selection of specialty plates that support conservation, such as wildlife, scenic rivers, and natural areas in the state.
- Personalized license plates: These custom plates must contain at least four and less than eight characters and can be used to share a nickname, profession, or other personalized option.
Understanding Ohio License Plate Fees and Renewal Timelines
If you live in Ohio, you must renew your license plates every year and can do so up to 90 days ahead of the deadline, which is typically your birth date. Local taxes will vary based on the county you live in.
Annual registration fees for Ohio drivers also vary by vehicle type, with upcharges for hybrid and electric vehicles:
- Passenger vehicle: $31
- Motorcycle: $25
- Hybrid: $100
- Plug-in hybrid: $150
- Electric: $200
You can renew online, at a deputy registrar license agency, or by using Ohio BMV Express, which gives you the ability to get a new license plate sticker at statewide kiosk locations.
Common Scenarios and Practical Tips for Ohio Drivers
If you opt for the Ohio BMV Express option, you will scan your vehicle renewal notice, pay with a credit or debit card, then print out your new license plate sticker. The kiosks are a great option if you are renewing an existing vehicle registration or printing a duplicate sticker; however, they won't work for address or name changes.
Here are additional tips if you are an Ohio driver:
- Pay attention to deadlines and timelines. If you pay your renewal fees more than 30 days late, you will be assessed a $10 late fee. Driving with expired tags is considered a misdemeanor in Ohio, so you want to stay on top of your registrations and renewals.
- Visit the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles website for the latest information on everything from driver's licenses to Real IDs, from title history to vehicle identification information.
- Finally, maintain safe driving practices to avoid tickets, fines, and accidents.
Protect Your Vehicle: Get the Right Ohio Car Insurance Today
Ohio car insurance and Ohio car registration are critical for anyone driving in Ohio. Fortunately, you can save on your Ohio auto insurance when you get car insurance quotes that provide a comparison chart of your options. Visit EverQuote today to find the best Ohio car insurance for your driving needs.