Last Updated on March 22, 2018 by Jason Mason
When purchasing a vehicle in Ohio, you will need to obtain the required paperwork from the seller in order to register and title the car in your name with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). If you buy a car from a dealer, they will process all the required paperwork on your behalf. Continue reading this article to get more information about the paperwork required when buying a car in Ohio.
Paperwork for Ohio Car Buyers
To transfer ownership to your name, ask the seller to provide the following:
- The vehicle title, which must signed by all previous owners listed on the title. This title must be notarized.
- Form BMV 3724 (Odometer Disclosure Statement).
- A bill of sale if you buy the car from a dealer or a private seller and if the purchase price is not listed on the certificate of the title.
You must take the above documents to the nearest county clerk’s office in Ohio. You must title the car within 30 days from the date of purchase. You must pay $15 title fee and pay the required sales tax, which varies depending on the purchase price.
Missing Title
Don’t buy a vehicle without a title certificate. The title is an important document that can be used to show the rightful owner of the car. If the title is missing, ask the seller to apply for a duplicate copy and give it to you before making full payment for the vehicle.
Vehicle Registration Paperwork in Ohio
Once your new car is correctly titled, you can then proceed to apply for a new registration or transfer the registration or license plates in person at your local Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles office. You will need the following documents:
- Form BMV 3724 (Odometer Disclosure Statement).
- Vehicle title.
- Bill of sale, if applicable.
- Registration fees:
- $34.50 for a passenger car.
- $4.50 transfer fee.
NOTE: If you are a resident of e-check County, you must obtain valid EPA emissions check documentation before registering your car.
Vehicle History Reports
A vehicle history report is not needed when registering or titling a car in your name. However, this document is needed when purchasing a car. From this report, you can get detailed information about the vehicle that you are buying. You will know:
- Whether the vehicle has been involved in any accident.
- The damage history.
- The vehicle odometer reading.
This knowledge can help you negotiate a good price for the vehicle you intend to purchase it.
