Driving on the roadways of Ohio, you may notice an array of creative and distinctive license plates. From memorable one-liners to arrangements that make you wonder; personalized vanity plates allow drivers to showcase their personalities. So, how can you get one for yourself? This article will provide in-depth knowledge on how to get one, how to avoid having your personalized license plate denied, and other questions you may have.
What are Vanity License plates?
Want to give your vehicle a personal touch? Look no further than vanity license plates! Also known as personalized or custom plates, these plates allow you to create a one-of-a-kind combination of letters, numbers, and symbols for your license plate. Unlike regular plates that are just random characters, vanity plates let you express your individuality. They can showcase your name, interests, affiliations, or even convey a special message.
- Want to show people how cool of a mom you are? Perhaps COOLMOM
- Want to let drivers know that you’re someone to take seriously? Try THATGUY
- Show how loyal you are to the game of soccer with SOCCER1
So why settle for a boring plate when you can make a statement with a personalized vanity plate?
Verify availability
In 2022, Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) denied a bunch of vanity license plates. Why? Most of these rejections happened because the requested messages could be seen as offensive, misleading, inappropriate, or just copies of plates already given out.
So before you get your heart set on what you have in mind for your plate,
Step One: Go to Ohio’s BMV site: https://bmvonline.dps.ohio.gov/bmvonline/oplates/specializedplates/1
Step Two: Enter the personalized plate characters
Step Three: Press ‘Check availability.’ The site will let you know if the tag is already taken or if it will not be approved.
Save yourself a headache and do some footwork before you submit your application.
Types and Options of Ohio Vanity License Plates
Ohio offers a variety of license plate options to cater to different personalities and preferences:
- Personalized Plates: The most common type, where you can select a combination of characters as long as they adhere to the Ohio BMV’s guidelines. Nothing offensive, vulgar, misleading, or taken.
- Specialized Organization Plates: Represent your affiliation with a specific group or organization, such as colleges, military branches, or nonprofits.
- Special Interest Plates: Highlight a particular cause or interest, like breast cancer awareness or wildlife conservation.
Ohio provides over 175 specialized organizations and special interest plates. Some organizations listed on Ohio’s BMV website (https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/vr-sp-geninfo.aspx) are;
- ALS Awareness
- Patrol Supporter
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Trees4Ohio
- Friends of Coal
- Ohio Zoos
- University of Notre Dame
- Twinsburg City Schools
Note that while you can choose the characters on your plate, certain designs or backgrounds might be predefined based on the type of plate you choose.
What are the requirements for a personalized plate in Ohio?
There are a few requirements that you must meet to obtain personalized license plates in Ohio. First and foremost, your chosen combination of letters and numbers must comply with the Ohio BMV guidelines. This means no offensive or vulgar language, no references to drugs or illegal activities, and no explicit or inappropriate content.
You cannot have personalized plates for commercial vehicles or motorcycles in Ohio; this privilege is only available for non-commercial passenger vehicles.
When considering a vanity license plate in Ohio, keep the following guidelines in mind:
- The combination must be unique and not already in use. It’s crucial to come up with unique combinations that another driver hasn’t already claimed for your application to be successful.
- Plates can be a combination of up to 7 characters for passenger vehicles and up to 6 characters for motorcycles.
- Avoid messages that could be considered offensive, vulgar, or discriminatory.
- No misleading plates that might be confused with official markings or titles, like “POLICE” or “MAYOR.”
How much does it cost for a custom vanity license plate in Ohio?
In addition to the regular registration fee, there’s an additional charge for vanity plates. The cost for a personalized plate is approximately $50. Specialized organizations and special interest plates often have an additional fee that might go towards supporting the affiliated cause or group.
Keep in mind that these fees are subject to change over time due to legislative decisions or other factors affecting motor vehicle administration in Ohio. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check with a local Ohio BMV (https://publicsafety.ohio.gov/local-office) or their official website (https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/doc-fees.aspx) for any updates regarding Ohio personalized plates’ cost.
How to Order
You can order your personalized vanity plates three ways.
- Online: Ohio BMV’s website (https://bmvonline.dps.ohio.gov/bmvonline/oplates/specializedplates/1) often offers an online system where you can check the availability of your desired character combination and apply directly. You will need to create an account before you’re able to submit an online application.
- In-Person: Visit a local Ohio BMV’s deputy registrar agency. Make sure to bring the necessary documentation, such as your vehicle’s title and current registration. You may want to call ahead to verify documentation and wait times.
- By Mail: If you prefer a more traditional route, you can also apply for an Ohio vanity plate by mail.
Step One: Download and print out the application form (BMV4705) from the BMV website.
Step Two: Carefully fill it out with all the necessary details.
Step Three: Enclose a check or money order payable to “Ohio Treasurer of State” for the required fee along with your completed application form
Step Four: Mail them to the designated address provided on their website.
Note that you can’t use the above form for Collector (BMV4803) or Historical (BMV4806) license plates. Those forms may be obtained at your local deputy registrar or online at www. bmv.ohio.gov.
Once submitted, the BMV will review your application to ensure it meets the guidelines. The plate will be created and mailed to you, or you can pick up if approved.
How long does it take to get the vanity plate?
The processing time can vary based on demand and other factors. On average, after approval, it might take 10 to 14 business days for your personalized plate to be manufactured and ready for pick-up or shipment. However, please remember that this estimate is subject to change and can be affected by various factors, such as the volume of applications received at any given time. If ordering a specialized design, the timeframe might extend a bit longer. It’s always good to check with the Ohio BMV for current processing times.
Acquiring a personalized vanity license plate in Ohio is a way to express yourself and make your vehicle one-of-a-kind. The process is seemingly straightforward. By understanding the process and guidelines, you can smoothly navigate the road to making your car uniquely yours.
Safe travels!
