The vehicle itself
It must be physically present so the inspector can read the VIN. Photos and paperwork alone are not enough.
Printable guide
Out-of-State VIN Inspection Checklist
Use this before bringing an out-of-state vehicle to an official DMV or BMV office for its VIN inspection.
independent DMV and BMV information guide Verify requirements with the official DMV or BMV before you visit.
Bring these
Bring the vehicle and its paperwork
Out-of-state title
Or another ownership document, such as a manufacturer's certificate of origin or foreign title for imports.
Photo ID
A valid photo ID for the owner.
Payment
The $8.00 out-of-state vehicle inspection fee.
Decision point
Do you need this inspection?
Out-of-state title
Yes. New residents and out-of-state purchases need the inspection before the Clerk of Courts can issue an Ohio title.
Ohio-to-Ohio transfer
No. A vehicle already titled in Ohio follows the standard title transfer process instead.
Imported vehicle
Yes, plus federal customs, EPA, and USDOT/NHTSA paperwork for the title step that follows.
At the visit
Simple steps
- Drive the vehicle to an official DMV or BMV office with its out-of-state title and your ID.
- Have the inspector verify the VIN and record the odometer.
- Pay the $8.00 fee and take the completed inspection certificate.
- Take the certificate and title to the County Clerk of Courts, then return to the BMV for plates.
Avoid a return trip
- Do not leave the vehicle at home, the inspector must see the actual VIN.
- Do not go to the Clerk of Courts first, the title office needs the inspection certificate.
- Do not expect to pay sales tax at the inspection, that comes at the title step.