Register a vehicle in Ohio

Online or in person

No, in person · Title office, then deputy registrarThe BMV lists registering in person at a local deputy registrar license agency. A temporary tag can also be bought online at OPLATES.com. Ohio titles are issued by county Clerk of Courts title offices, not the BMV. After titling, register at a deputy registrar license agency.

Cost

$18 title feeStatewide title fee; some counties may charge $23 if local officials approve an additional charge. Annual registration renewal fees on the BMV fee page depend on vehicle type.

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • To title: original title assigned to you · all that apply
     The seller completes the assignment on the back of the title and has signatures notarized. Photocopies of a title are not accepted.
   • To title: acceptable photo ID and payment · all that apply
     Contact your County Clerk of Courts title office for ID details. Social Security numbers are required for all parties. Sales tax on the purchase price and title fees are due at the title office; contact it for payment options.
   • To register: Ohio proof of title
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Ohio Certificate of Title
     • Memorandum Title
     • Electronic Title Receipt
   • To register: your ID
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Ohio driver license
     • Ohio ID card
     • Proof of Social Security number
   • To register: also, where they apply · all that apply
     Sign a proof of Financial Responsibility Statement at the deputy registrar. Tax ID number if the vehicle is titled in a business name. E-Check certificate if registering in an E-Check county. Lease agreement and power of attorney documents if leased. Non-commercial trucks also need the Affidavit for Registration (BMV 5712).
     Show accepted documents

     • Approved Document List (BMV 2424)

2. Title the vehicle

   Take your documents to a county Clerk of Courts title office. Ohio titles are issued there, not by the BMV.

   County Clerk of Courts title office search ↗

3. Get a temporary tag if you need to drive first

   If the vehicle will be driven before its title is issued, buy a temporary tag ($23 on the BMV fee page) from any deputy registrar or online. Get a 45-day temporary tag before transferring the title.

   OPLATES.com ↗

4. Register at a deputy registrar

   After the vehicle is titled in Ohio, register it in person at a deputy registrar license agency.

5. Check the fees

   Registration fees depend on vehicle type; hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles pay an annual fuel-type fee ($100, $150 and $200).

   Documents & Fees ↗