Do I Need an Inspection To Renew My Tags in Ohio?

Yes, emissions testing is required to renew your vehicle tags in Ohio, but a separate safety inspection is not. Vehicles that are 25 years old or newer must undergo an emissions inspection as part of the state's E-Check program before registration renewal. This applies to vehicles in Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain, Medina, Portage, and Summit.

Renewal validation stickers issued in Ohio are placed on the rear license plate. The sticker displays the month and year of expiration and must be affixed to the lower right corner of the license plate.

Exemptions and Special Circumstances

Several vehicle categories are exempt from emissions testing under Ohio law. Electric vehicles, motorcycles, and vehicles registered as historic or classic cars qualify for exemptions. Vehicles manufactured before model year 1967 and those 25 years or older do not require emissions inspection regardless of registration location.

Additionally, vehicles registered outside the seven designated E-Check counties are not subject to emissions testing requirements. New vehicles are exempt from emissions testing for the first four model years following manufacture. Farm vehicles used exclusively for agricultural purposes and vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 10,000 pounds also receive exemptions from the E-Check program.

Contact Information for Tag Services

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223
Phone: (844) 644-6268
Official Website: Bureau of Motor Vehicles