What Is a Temporary License Plate in Ohio?
A temporary license plate in Ohio is a provisional registration for newly purchased vehicles, allowing them to be driven legally while waiting for permanent plates. Licensed dealerships issue these tags, which are valid for a limited time to give the vehicle owner enough time to complete the registration process.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate in Ohio?
Here are the typical steps to get a temporary license plate in Ohio:
- Purchase a Vehicle First, you’ll need to purchase a vehicle from a dealer or private party.
- Obtain Proof of Insurance: You must have valid auto insurance for the vehicle. Get an insurance card or policy showing your coverage.
- Title Application: Go to the local BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles) office and complete the title application for the vehicle purchase. Provide the required documents like the title, bill of sale, etc.
- Pay Taxes/Fees: You must pay the applicable taxes and fees for titling and registering the vehicle in Ohio.
- Request Temp Tag Once the paperwork is complete and fees are paid, request a temporary license plate/tag from the BMV clerk.
- Receive Temp Plate The BMV will issue you a temporary plate/tag that is typically valid for 30-90 days until your permanent plates arrive in the mail.
- Display Temp Plate Properly display the temporary tag on the rear of the newly purchased vehicle before driving it.
Where Can I Get a Temporary License Plate in Ohio?
Temporary license plates in Ohio can be obtained from any licensed vehicle dealership. Dealers are authorized to issue these tags directly at the point of sale. For more information on locations and services, visit the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website or contact them via phone:
- Ohio BMV Website
- Ohio BMV Phone Number: (844) 644-6268
How Much Does a Temporary License Plate Cost in Ohio?
In Ohio, the cost for a temporary license plate is $20.00. This fee is for the temporary tag and is valid until the vehicle can be fully registered with the state. This does not include other potential fees, such as permissive (local) taxes, which can vary depending on the taxing district and vehicle type. These taxes are assessed in $5.00 increments and may be prorated by 50% if registering for seven months or less. Additional fees for registration and related services may apply depending on the vehicle type and any special registration requirements.
How To Get a Temporary License Plate Online in Ohio?
As of August 2020, Ohio residents can print temporary tags at home. This new system allows vehicle owners to obtain temporary license plates without visiting a dealership or BMV office in person. To utilize this service, follow these steps:
- Complete any necessary vehicle purchase documentation online.
- Apply for a temporary tag through the Ohio BMV’s online services.
- Print the temporary tag from home.
What Types of Temporary License Plates Are There in Ohio?
In Ohio, there are specific types of temporary license plates designed for different vehicle categories and purposes:
45-day Temporary Tag: This tag is designated for All-Purpose Vehicles (APVs) only. It allows the vehicle to be used legally while permanent registration processes are completed.
30-day Temporary Tag: This tag permits the temporary use of off-road motorcycles, catering primarily to vehicles not commonly used on public roads.
Standard Temporary Tags for Cars and Trucks: Typically, these tags are valid for up to 45 days and are issued by licensed dealers when a vehicle is sold. They cover the interim period until the permanent plates are issued.
Special Request Tags: Temporary tags are issued while waiting for special plates to be processed for vehicles that require special registration, such as those with vanity or personalized plates.
These temporary tags help ensure that all vehicles driven on Ohio roads are legally registered and insured, even during the transitional period following vehicle acquisition or when special registration is needed.
When Is a Temporary License Plate Required in Ohio?
A temporary license plate is required in Ohio in several situations:
- Upon the Purchase of a New or Used Vehicle: When a vehicle is purchased from a dealership, a temporary tag is issued to allow the new owner to drive legally while waiting for permanent registration and license plates to be processed.
- Following Specific Legislation: Ohio law stipulates that temporary tags are valid for 45 days, giving vehicle owners ample time to secure permanent registration from the date of issuance.
- Renewal or Replacement of Tags: If there is a delay in the renewal or replacement of expired or lost permanent plates, a temporary tag may be issued to ensure the vehicle remains legal on public roads.
- Second Temporary Tag Issuance: If the initial 45-day temporary tag expires and the permanent plates are still unavailable, a second temporary tag valid for 30 days can be issued.
Can I Get Insurance on a Car With Temporary Plates in Ohio?
Yes, you can obtain insurance on a car with temporary plates in Ohio. Insurance companies typically require proof of temporary registration and other standard documentation, such as the vehicle’s make, model, and VIN, to initiate coverage.
What Paperwork Do I Need To Get a Temporary Tag in Ohio?
To obtain a temporary tag in Ohio, you will need the following paperwork:
- Driver’s License: Proof of your identity and legal driving status.
- Vehicle Registration: Documentation that shows the vehicle is registered in your name. If you have just purchased the vehicle and it is not yet registered, you will need the title transfer documents.
- Proof of Insurance: Evidence of current auto insurance coverage for the vehicle.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the required fee for the temporary tag. The exact amount can vary, so it is advisable to check with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) or a licensed dealership for the most accurate and current fee information.
How Long Can I Run a Temporary License Plate in Ohio?
Temporary license plates in Ohio are valid for a period of 45 days from the date of issuance. This period is designed to allow sufficient time for the vehicle owner to complete all necessary registration and titling processes.
Can I Drive on an Expired Temporary License Plate in Ohio?
Driving on an expired temporary license plate in Ohio is illegal. Vehicle owners are expected to complete the registration process and obtain permanent plates before the expiration of the temporary tags. Failure to do so can result in traffic citations and fines.