How to Register Your Vehicle in Ohio?

This blog post will walk you through the entire process of registering a new vehicle, renewing your registration, registering an out-of-state vehicle, calculating registration payments, and keeping your vehicle up to date on inspections in Ohio!
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We'll talk about the following topics:

• Is it possible to complete my vehicle registration online?
• How do I register a car for the first time in Ohio?
• How can I re-register or change my vehicle's registration in Ohio?
• What fees can be associated with registering in Ohio?
• What kind of examination is required?

Register your Vehicle: For Ohio Residents ​

​Whether you're moving to Ohio, buying a new automobile from a dealership (although the dealership may assist you), or buying/receiving a vehicle from a private person, you're responsible for completing your vehicle registration.

• Before registering a vehicle, new residents must get an Ohio vehicle title.
  
• Within 30 days of purchase, car dealerships must furnish you with the title.
  
• If you are purchasing a vehicle from a private party, the seller must provide you with the title at the time of purchase. Ascertain that the title transfer is properly documented.
  

Step 1: Go to Registrar's office with documents

Go to the local deputy registrar's office once you obtain the title, and please provide proof of:

• A valid Ohio driver's license or photo ID is required, as well as proof of Social Security number.
  
• Vehicle registration in Ohio (obtained from the dealer, signed over from the seller via private sale, OR out-of-state title transfer)
  
• The title must be notarized and include the seal of the Ohio clerk of court.
  
• Completed Ohio Vehicle Registration Power of Attorney(if your vehicle is leased)
  
• VIN inspection report (if the vehicle is new to Ohio; can be completed at any deputy registrar agency)
  
• Evidence of an emissions inspection (if applicable)
  
• Vehicle insurance proof from Ohio
  
• Paid full Fees and taxes.
  
• The registration fee is $31.
  
• Fees for license plates.
  
• Fees for Deputy Registrar license agencies.
  
• Taxes charged by the county (if applicable).
  

Note: Although proof of insurance is not usually necessary, you may be asked to show proof of OH auto insurance before completing your registration.

​Step 2: Make a payment

When you submit all of the papers to register your vehicle, you must pay the registration fees to the deputy registrar agency. The fee for non-commercial and passenger automobiles starts at $31. This does not include district-specific permissive taxes, fees charged by the Deputy Registrar's license agency, or any special license plate costs that may apply.

• $6 for a plate or registration transfer.
  
• One license plate replacement or exchange costs $12.
  
• $13.25 to replace or swap two license plates.
  
• Temporary registration is $20 for 45 days.
  
• The cost of an out-of-state car inspection is $5.
  
• Plates mailing fee (if applicable): current mail rates
  

Additional payments for county taxes or specialty license plates may apply. The deputy registrar agency will determine the actual price payable for registering your vehicle.

Last Step: Temporary permit till you get plates

The address on your registration will be used to mail your license plates. While you wait for the plates to come, you'll be given a temporary permit that will allow you to drive legally.

Bonus: Registration Renewal
In Ohio, there are plentiful options for renewing your vehicle registration.

Via Mail:
The following documents are required to complete a registration renewal by mail in Ohio:

• An E-Check Certificate, If Applicable
• Certificate Of Insurance
• Checks Or Money Orders 
• Current Residence Address
• Registration Request Form
• Renewal Notice, Signed And Dated

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Mailing address:
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Information Services
Registration Support Services, P.O. Box 16521
Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521

After you turn in your paperwork, you will receive your registration and stickers in the mail four weeks later.

Conclusion

To complete your registration renewal in person, bring the identical items indicated above in the "By Mail" section, except the Application for Registration, to your local Deputy Registrar's office. In-person transactions must be paid with a valid credit card, cash, check, or money order.