Ohio VIN Lookup

Potential vehicle buyers in Ohio have many used car options. However, before purchasing a vehicle, the individual must undergo a VIN check so they do not end up with a lemon. A VIN lookup provides information about the vehicle's history to ensure it is legitimate and has no major issues.

Most car owners in the Buckeye State prefer four-wheel-drive cars and pickup trucks due to the heavy winter snow and hot summers common in the state. Additionally, the lowlands near the Great Lake Plains are great areas for agriculture, and residents require versatile and high-performance vehicles to carry and tow equipment. However, in cities like Cleveland and Columbus, people prefer using sedans, SUVs, and sports cars to get around.

In Ohio, people have a few ways to look up a car's VIN. One way is using the state's BMV online title search. Additionally, people can use the NMVTIS and NHTSA databases, which hold all of the vehicle information in the country. Lastly, potential buyers can use free and paid online services, like Infotracer, to look up a vehicle's history using its VIN.

VIN Verification

VIN verification involves authorized entities inspecting the vehicle to ensure that the VIN matches the one on recorded documents. The inspection also checks for illegal tampering or modifications to the car. Authorities in states conduct VIN verifications in different instances, such as during vehicle registration.

Ohio requires VIN inspections for out-of-state vehicles to convert the title into an Ohio title. In addition, all vehicles from foreign countries are subject to the inspection. The inspection also applies to Ohio titles assigned to an out-of-state dealer and then reassigned back into the state. Vehicles with out-of-state government titles must also undergo inspection.

Inspections are only done by the License Bureau or a New Car Dealership in the state. The complete certificate only remains valid if it passes through the Clerk of Courts within 30 days of inspection.

Ohio Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate

92.2%

Registered Vehicles

2.2 per household

High Car Ownership Rate

Ohio has a high car ownership rate, with 92.2% of households reporting at least one vehicle. The average number of vehicles per household is 2.2.

Miles Per Year

14,278

Average Annual Mileage

The average yearly mileage of an average driver in Ohio is 14,278.

Popular Car

Honda Civic

Popular Car Makes in Ohio

The number one vehicle in Ohio is the Honda Civic. Other popular brands include Kia, Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge Ram.

Crashes

1,077

Car Accidents

Ohio recorded 1,077 fatal crashes in 2023, a slight drop from 2022, which was 1,180 fatal crashes.

Crashes

324

Alcohol-Impaired Driving

Fatal crashes related to alcohol also reduced to 324 in 2023 within the state.

Crashes

349

Drug-Impaired Driving

Drug-related driving was a factor in 349 fatal crashes in 2023.

Crashes

31

Teen Safety

In 2023, teen-related crashes resulted in 31 fatal collisions, while youth-related accidents resulted in 274 fatal collisions.

Ohio DMV

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for handling driver and vehicle-related services in Ohio. General services offered by the Ohio BMV include:

• Driver's Licenses and ID Cards: The Ohio BMV issues driver's licenses and identification cards. They handle new licenses, renewals, replacements, and upgrades. Ohio offers various licenses, including standard, commercial, and motorcycle licenses.
• Vehicle Registration: The BMV manages vehicle registrations, including renewals, transfers, and replacements. It also issues license plates for various types of vehicles.
• Titling and Transfers:When buying or selling a vehicle, the BMV facilitates the transfer of titles and ownership. This involves updating the official records to reflect changes in vehicle ownership.
• Driving Records: Ohio residents can obtain copies of their driving records, which may be necessary for various reasons, such as insurance or employment verification.
• Specialty License Plates: The BMV offers a variety of specialty license plates, allowing drivers to personalize their vehicles or support specific causes.
• Driver Education and Testing: The BMV oversees driver education programs and conducts written and road tests for new drivers.
• Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL): The BMV administers commercial driver's license testing and issuance for individuals seeking to operate commercial vehicles.
• Vehicle Inspections: The BMV may oversee vehicle inspections, ensuring that vehicles meet safety and emissions standards.
• Online Services: Many services are available online, allowing residents to renew licenses, update information, and perform other transactions without visiting a physical BMV office.
• Insurance Verification: The BMV may require drivers to provide proof of insurance coverage, and they may verify insurance information electronically.

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

When it comes to federal law compliance and environmental quality resources for drivers in Ohio, there are several regulations and organizations that drivers should be aware of to ensure safety and environmental responsibility. They include:

• Ohio EPA's Vehicle Emissions Program: The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) administers programs related to vehicle emissions testing and provides information on testing locations, requirements, and exemptions.
• Ohio Green Fleets Certification Program: Ohio offers a Green Fleets Certification Program that recognizes businesses and government agencies operating environmentally friendly vehicle fleets. The program promotes the use of alternative fuels and advanced vehicle technologies.
• Ohio Alternative Fuels Incentive Program: This program, managed by the Ohio EPA, provides financial incentives for purchasing and installing equipment for using alternative fuels.
• Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) Environmental Services: ODOT's Environmental Services division works on projects considering environmental impacts, including air quality, water quality, and habitat preservation. They engage in planning efforts to mitigate the environmental effects of transportation projects.
• Ohio's Clean Diesel School Bus Program: Ohio EPA's Clean Diesel School Bus Program aims to reduce emissions from school buses by providing grants to replace or retrofit older diesel buses with cleaner technologies.
• Ohio's Environmental Education Fund: The Ohio EPA's Environmental Education Fund supports projects that enhance environmental education and awareness. Initiatives related to sustainable transportation and emissions reduction may be eligible for funding.

Buying a Used Car in Ohio

Individuals who want to purchase a used car in Ohio should be aware of various procedures and laws to ensure a smooth transaction and protection from deformed vehicles. Key considerations include:

Ohio Lemon Laws

Ohio Lemon Laws offer protections to used car buyers. However, it only applies to at most one-year-old vehicles or those driven more than 18,000 miles. Individuals are, therefore, encouraged to keep good records and note any defects.

Title Transfer and Registration

Individuals must complete the title transfer within 30 days after the date of the sale. Buyers must bring the original title to the BMV, identification, VIN inspection for out-of-state vehicles, sales tax of the purchase price, and title fee payment.

Conducting a VIN Check

Individuals are encouraged to run a VIN check to ensure the vehicle has no potential issues, such as flood damage and the last odometer readings.

Sales Tax

Purchasing a vehicle (new or used) in Ohio subjects the buyer to a 5.75% state tax plus the applicable local tax.

Reasons to Do a VIN Check in Ohio

Performing a VIN check in Ohio is important for the following reasons:

• Odometer Reading Verification: Some VIN checks include odometer readings, helping buyers verify the accuracy of the mileage reported by the seller.
• Recalls and Safety Defects: VIN checks can alert buyers to any recalls or safety defects associated with the vehicle.
• Theft Records: VIN checks can provide information about whether a vehicle has been reported as stolen.
• Accident History: VIN checks can provide details about the vehicle's involvement in accidents.
• Title Branding: Title branding indicates specific conditions or events that have affected the vehicle, such as salvage, flood damage, or lemon law buyback.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Ohio

There are various options for Ohio residents to look up a vehicle's VIN before buying it. They include:

VIN Replacement in Ohio

In Ohio, a person can get a VIN replacement from the state BMV. However, the state only allows VIN replacement if the car's identification number has been damaged, destroyed, or missing. The owner will be penalized if the VIN is suspected of alteration or modification during inspection.

It is important to note that only car owners can request VIN replacement in the state. To get an Ohio-issued identification number, a person should have:

• An Ohio identification card or driver's license.
• The vehicle's certificate of title.
• Salvage receipt for inspection.
• A completed Salvage Inspection Form (HP 106), which a State Highway Patrol Officer filled out.
• A completed Application for Replacement Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a Motor Vehicle - Form BMV3713.
• Pay a VIN replacement fee.

New Vehicle Registration in Ohio

In Ohio, new owners must register their vehicles within 30 days of purchasing. The state's BMV is responsible for issuing registration. To register a new car, a person should have the following:

• Proof of vehicle ownership can be a Certificate of Title, Memorandum of Title, Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO).
• An Ohio driver's license, identification card, or social security number.
• Proof of insurance liability.
• Bill of sales if applicable.
• Pay a registration fee.

Once the registration is completed, the BMV will provide a registration certificate and mail the license plate to the address provided.

How to Transfer VIN During a Sale in Ohio

The state requires people to transfer vehicle titles within 30 days after purchase. During the transfer, the BMV will change the car's information and ownership, including the VIN, to the buyer. To transfer a vehicle's title in the state, a person should have the following:

• A notarized original title.
• A completed Application for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle - Form BMV3774.
• Proof of identification can include an Ohio driver's license or identification card.
• VIN inspection.
• Odometer reading on the title application.
• Bill of sales.
• Proof of sales tax.
• Pay a title transfer fee.

What Would Vehicle History Report Include in Ohio

A vehicle history report in Ohio offers valuable insights to potential buyers of used cars. This report encompasses details such as the vehicle's title history, verifying the accuracy of the odometer reading, and alerts the buyer to recalls or safety defects. Additionally, the report might disclose theft records.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

Individuals may use a third-party license plate lookup service to obtain details about the car, including its VIN.

Vehicle Inspections in Ohio

Ohio requires vehicles to undergo vehicle emission testing. This regulation applies to vehicles that are four to 25 years old. The state has self-service testing kiosks in different locations.

What Does the Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Ohio?

In Ohio, a vehicle inspection report includes a detailed examination of various vehicle components and systems to ensure compliance with safety and emissions standards. It also evaluates the vehicle's emissions control components for emissions testing to ensure they meet established environmental standards.