1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

Depending on your situation, you must renew your registration annually or biennially.

Renew OH Registration

You can't legally drive with an expired registration, so you need to renew yours before the deadline, or else risk getting a ticket and having to pay a fine.

Of course, you need to have proof of financial responsibility, too. If you're looking for a new insurance provider, you can browse through our Insurance Center to easily track down carriers and find the best rates.

To learn about your renewal options, start with our "Check Your Renewal Notice" section below.

Register a Vehicle in OH for the First Time

If you just bought a car, or moved to the state, this article isn't for you. Instead, please visit our Car Registration page to learn how to handle your initial registration.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

You'll register your non-operational vehicle in the same manner you would for one that's currently operating.

2) Check Your Renewal Notice

About two months before your registration expires, you should receive your renewal notice in the mail. If you didn't get yours, call the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) at (614) 752-7500.

If your vehicle needs to have its emissions tested, it should indicate this on the notice. See our Smog & Emission Checks article for more information on this matter.

3) Calculate Your Fees

Renewal fees vary depending on where you live and the length of your registration. But, your amount is also listed on your renewal notice. If you didn't receive your notice, call (614) 752-7500 to see how much you'll owe.

When you renew, it's a good idea to take a look at your current car insurance policy. You may be able to find a lower rate when you compare carriers and policies.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

The state doesn't allow a grace period, so if you haven't renewed your registration within seven days of its expiration date you're officially in violation of the law. You'll have to pay a $20 late fee and if you receive a ticket you'll also pay a hefty fine.

4) Renew Online, In Person, By Mail, or By Phone

Online

1. Make sure you meet all of the requirements to renew online, including having your emissions testing successfully completed (if required).
2. Have a valid MasterCard, Visa, Discover, or American Express card, or a checking account number ready.
3. Have your license plate number and last four digits of your Social Security number to start the process.
4. Go to the Oplates site and follow the remaining instructions to finish the process.
5. Allow 10 days to receive your renewal stickers in the mail.

In Person

1. Have one acceptable form of identification.
2. Complete the emissions inspection beforehand (if required).
3. Be prepared to pay the renewal fees (credit cards not accepted).
4. Go to a branch agency.

By Mail

1. You may only renew using this method if your name and vehicle information are correctly listed on your renewal card. If you didn't get your card, call (614) 752-7500.
2. Complete the emissions inspection before you mail the form (if required).
3. Sign and date the reverse side of the card, and make any necessary address changes. (Only the vehicle owner may sign the form; otherwise, a power of attorney form signed by the owner must be provided.)
4. Include the card and your fee payment (check or money order only) in the envelope provided, and mail it.
5. Allow 10 days to receive your renewal stickers in the mail.

By Phone

1. Complete the emissions inspection before calling (if required).
2. Have your license plate number, Social Security number, and credit card or check routing number ready.
3. Call (866) 675-2837 to renew with the automated system and follow the instructions given.
4. Allow 10 days to receive your renewal stickers in the mail.

5) Affix Your Sticker

Place your renewal sticker in the lower, right-hand corner of your rear license plate.

6) Get a Tax Deduction

Because the state doesn't base its registration renewal fees on the estimated value of the vehicle, you can't take a deduction.

For more information on this matter, consult a tax attorney.

7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

Don't think your responsibility ends after you've renewed your vehicle. It's up to you―and your fellow drivers―to keep the streets and highways as safe as possible.

Maintaining your vehicle in the best shape is one good way to prevent unnecessarily endangering yourself or other motorists. Make sure to change your oil and rotate your tires regularly. When your tires need to be replaced, do so promptly. Find a qualified mechanic who can handle these and other routine matters, including tune-ups.

Of course, no matter how much effort you put into keeping your car in peak running condition, problems invariably occur. So, consider investing in an after-market warranty to help out with the major issues, and a roadside assistance program to assist in emergency situations.

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