The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for administering the state's motor vehicle laws and issuing driver licenses, vehicle titles, and license plates. The BMV also maintains vehicle records and administers the Mandatory Liability Insurance law.
There are over 60 BMV offices located throughout Ohio. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some offices also offer Saturday hours.
To find a BMV office near you, visit the BMV website or call (844) 426-8268.
Driver Licenses
To obtain an Ohio driver license, you must be at least 16 years old and pass a vision test, a written knowledge test, and a road skills test. You must also provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
If you are a new resident of Ohio, you must transfer your driver license from your previous state within 30 days of establishing residency.
Vehicle Registration
All vehicles registered in Ohio must have a valid license plate. License plates must be renewed annually.
To register a vehicle in Ohio, you must provide proof of ownership, insurance, and emissions compliance. You must also pay a registration fee.
Vehicle Titles
A vehicle title is a legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle. When you purchase a vehicle, the seller must transfer the title to you.
To transfer a vehicle title, you must sign the title in the presence of a notary public. You must also pay a title transfer fee.
Other BMV Services
In addition to issuing driver licenses, registering vehicles, and transferring titles, the BMV also offers a variety of other services, including:
- Renewing driver licenses and vehicle registrations
- Ordering replacement driver licenses and license plates
- Reporting lost or stolen driver licenses and license plates
- Obtaining a commercial driver license (CDL)
- Registering a boat or trailer
- Paying traffic tickets
Online Services
The BMV also offers a number of online services, including:
- Renewing driver licenses and vehicle registrations
- Ordering replacement driver licenses and license plates
- Paying traffic tickets
- Changing your address
- Requesting a driver history report
To access the BMV's online services, visit the BMV website and create an account.
Tips for Visiting the BMV
Here are some tips for visiting the BMV:
- Arrive early. BMV offices can be busy, especially during peak hours.
- Bring all required documentation. This will help to expedite the process.
- Be prepared to pay the necessary fees.
- Be polite and respectful to BMV staff.
- If you have any questions, ask. BMV staff is there to help you.
Conclusion
The BMV is an important part of Ohio's transportation system. By providing essential services, the BMV helps to keep Ohio's roads safe and its economy moving.
Additional Facts
- The BMV issues over 5 million driver licenses each year.
- The BMV registers over 10 million vehicles each year.
- The BMV collects over $2 billion in revenue each year.
- The BMV has over 2,000 employees.
The BMV is committed to providing excellent customer service and making it easy for Ohio residents to get the services they need.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming