How to Register Your Car in Ohio: A Complete Guide
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If you buy a car in Ohio or move to the state from somewhere else, you’ll have to register your vehicle as soon as possible. You must meet specific requirements for your registration application. Use the guide below to learn about Ohio car registration and how to reffaqyour vehicle.
Introduction to Ohio Car Registration
Car registration in Ohio is required for any motor vehicle being operated on Ohio roadways. Drivers are responsible for meeting all car registration requirements, including paperwork and documentation, such as a vehicle title or proof of car insurance in Ohio.
If you’re caught driving without a registration in Ohio, you will be found guilty of a minor misdemeanor. Fines can range from $100 to $150, although other court costs and violations can increase this amount. This is why it's all the more important to learn about Ohio car registrations to avoid penalties.
Understanding Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN)
Ohio uses vehicle identification numbers (VINs) to register vehicles and perform VIN checks during registration. A VIN is a 17-character code that is unique to each vehicle. It identifies vehicle details, such as make and model or features. It can be used to track ownership, insurance claims, recalls, or thefts.
The VIN is typically found in multiple spots around the vehicle. It may be engraved or etched somewhere and can be found on a VIN tag on the dashboard or door post. VIN plates can also be placed in a variety of other places.
You must provide your vehicle’s VIN to register your vehicle. In some cases, an official may also need to physically check the VIN on your vehicle.
Types of Vehicles Eligible for Registration
All types of personal and commercial use vehicles are eligible for vehicle registration in Ohio. Passenger vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, house vehicles, motor homes, trucks, trailers, buses, and farm trucks are all eligible for registration. Registration fees will vary depending on whether it’s a personal or commercial vehicle, as well as the type of vehicle and weight.
Role of the BMV in Vehicle Registrations
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) regulates all vehicle registrations. They also issue license plates and vehicle titles. The BMV sets requirements for registration applications, renewal registrations, and VIN inspections for out-of-state vehicles.
Multiple agencies work with the BMV to help process registrations and vehicle titles. Many of the steps can be completed by visiting a local deputy registrar license agency, a county clerk of courts title office, or Ohio-licensed car dealerships.
Ohio Car Registration Process: Step-by-Step
The Ohio BMV car registration process is fairly straightforward. Before you apply for a registration, you can purchase temporary tags from a local deputy registrar license agency or online at OPLATES.com. You can use these to drive the vehicle before getting your official registration.
You will need to provide the following documents with your registration application for passenger vehicles and motorcycles:
- An original title issued by Ohio, or an application for an Ohio title with an out-of-state title
- An Ohio driver’s license, state ID, or proof of Social Security number
- A tax ID number, if the vehicle is titled in a business name
All vehicles, regardless of vehicle type, will also need a lease agreement and power of attorney documents (if the vehicle is leased). And if the vehicle is between 4 and 25 years old, an E-Check is required for vehicles located in an E-Check county.
You must also sign a proof of Financial Responsibility and provide proof of auto insurance in Ohio.
Finally, you must pay the registration fee. Ohio car registration fees will vary by vehicle type, but passenger vehicles will cost $31 plus applicable county fees and local taxes. Permissive tax cannot exceed $30.
Registration Renewals and Deadlines
Personal vehicle registrations typically expire on the vehicle owner’s birthday every year. However, expiration dates may also be determined by the BMV for qualifying circumstances or by a leasing company if your vehicle is leased.
Registrations can be renewed up to 90 days before the expiration date but must be renewed no later than the expiration date. While first-time registrations must be completed in person, Ohio car registration renewals can be completed online.
Special Cases in Ohio Car Registration
New Ohio residents have up to 30 days to transfer their registration, title, and driver’s license to Ohio. You must bring all of your information and documents to a deputy registrar license agency for a first-time Ohio registration.
If your registration is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply to request a duplicate registration if it is unexpired. The fee for the registration copy is $4, or you can pay $8 for a copy of your registration and decal. You can submit your application in person at a BMV office or through the mail.
Ready to Drive? Compare Ohio Car Insurance Options
To register your car in Ohio, you must present your insurance card to prove that you meet the state’s minimum car insurance requirements. Your car insurance options and rates can vary widely by ZIP code and driver profile. Use EverQuote’s free online quote comparison tool to find cheap car insurance in Ohio now.