Photo ID
Ohio driver license or state ID.
Printable guide
New & Specialty Plates Checklist
Use this before ordering standard, specialty, or personalized plates at an official DMV or BMV office.
independent DMV and BMV information guide Verify requirements with the official DMV or BMV before you visit.
Bring these
Bring to order your plates
Registration and plate number
Your current registration or plate number if the vehicle is already plated.
Proof of Ohio insurance
Current insurance for the vehicle being plated.
Eligibility documents
DD-214 or medical certification for military, veteran, or accessible plates. BMV 4705 for special-interest designs.
Payment
Annual plate fee plus any transaction and registration fees.
Decision point
Standard, specialty, or personalized?
Standard
Random state-assigned number, no extra annual plate fee.
Specialty
Collegiate and pro-sports plates run $35.00 a year, organizational designs $0 to $50.00, military and accessible plates add nothing.
Personalized
Choose 4 to 7 characters for a $50.00 annual fee. Check availability before you order.
At the visit
Simple steps
- Pick your design and check personalized-character availability.
- Gather eligibility documents and payment.
- Complete the order at the counter, with form BMV 4705 if needed.
- Watch the mail, specialty and personalized plates are manufactured and mailed.
Avoid a return trip
- Do not forget that specialty and personalized fees recur every year at renewal.
- Do not arrive without eligibility documents for military, veteran, or accessible plates.
- Do not expect specialty plates at the counter, most are mailed within a few weeks.