How to Transfer Title, Registration and License Plates in Ohio

If you are a new resident in the State of Ohio you will need to transfer the title, registration and license plates of your vehicle. First you will need to have your vehicle inspected for the purpose to avoid registraton of stolen vehicles. This can be done at all license agencies, some Country Clerk of Courts offices and car dealerships through their service departments.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Access to the internet
• Telephone book
• Social security card(s)

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1. Inspection of your vehicle will verify the make, model, body type and manufacturer's serial number or vehicle identification number. You will be given the completed inspection form. The inspection takes about 5 minutes. (There will be a minimal fee about $3.50 to the dealer or license agency and about $1.50 fee to be paid at your next stop, the auto title office.)
2. Your next stop will be at the County's Clerk of Courts Office, to the Auto Title Office. You can find this location in the county government section of your phone book, under "Clerk of Courts. Auto Title Department" or visit www.ohiobmv.com under Branch Office Locations, Title Offices.
3. If you have a lien on your vehicle, you will have to request that the original title be sent directly to the title office so the lien can be recorded on the Ohio title.
4. The Clerk of Courts will tell you the charge for your title transfer. If sales tax is due, it will be collected before the title is issued. A title transfer much be paid for in cash.
5. Once your title transfer is complete you may then obtain your new Ohio plates. You obtain your plates from the auto licensing bureau where you present your new Ohio title (or memorandum of title if your car has a lien) and proof of social security number.

Tips & Warnings

• If your vehicle has 2 owners, both of you have to be present to transfer the title, registration and plates unless you get a notarized power of attorney for the one who cannot be present.
• If you lease a car, it is best to contact your leasing agency to find out how you should handle the title transfer. It varies from company to company.