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LicensePlates Ohio

Replacement License Plate in Ohio

What is a License Plate Replacement in Ohio?

License plate replacement occurs outside the regular annual registration cycle in Ohio. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles processes replacements for a limited set of reasons: loss, theft, damage, destruction, illegibility, or the owner’s personal choice to change the style of the license plate (ORC §4503.19(A)(5)).

  • Ohio is a one-plate state (rear display only) according to ORC §4503.193. Owners who opted for two plates at registration replace one or both; prices differ for each.
  • The replacement fee is separate from the annual registration fee. Replacing one plate costs $15.00; replacing two plates costs $16.25 (includes deputy registrar fee).
  • The license plate number can remain unchanged at the owner’s choice. The registrar may issue a duplicate with the same number or assign a new one. Retaining the existing number costs an additional $10.00 according to ORC §4503.192.

When Do You Need to Replace Your Ohio License Plate?

Owners must apply for a replacement when a license plate is lost, stolen, destroyed, damaged, or has become too worn to read. The law also covers the elective case: an owner may replace a plate simply by choosing a different design or type.

  • Lost or stolen plates do not require mandatory police reporting. ORC §4503.19(A)(5) requires replacement based on “application as provided by the registrar,” not police filing. However, reporting a stolen plate to law enforcement is recommended.
  • Damaged or illegible plates must be replaced, but Ohio does not set a specific calendar deadline for this. The risk is immediate: operating without a legible rear plate is a strict liability offense under ORC §4503.21.
  • New residents must register within 30 days of establishing residency (ORC §4503.111). Failure to register is also a strict liability offense.

How to Get a Replacement License Plate in Ohio

Gather your current license plate, valid ID, and registration proof before beginning. If the old plate is still in your possession (damaged or worn), bring it for surrender.

  • In person: Visit any deputy registrar licensing agency. Verify identity and vehicle ownership, surrender the old plate if you have it, and pay the replacement fee. The deputy issues a new registration card and validation sticker on the spot. If you choose to retain your plate number, new plates are manufactured and mailed; the deputy provides a temporary operating permit until they arrive.
  • By mail: Send the application and payment to the address listed on your renewal notice. Central BMV mailing address: 1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223.
  • Online replacement is available through the OPLATES portal, discussed in the next section.

Can You Replace Ohio License Plate Online?

Yes. Ohio accepts online license plate replacements through OPLATES at bmvonline.dps.ohio.gov. The portal handles replacements, exchanges, registration card reprints, and sticker replacements alongside standard renewals.

OPLATES requires a current registration record, a matching address on file, and a credit or debit card for payment. Allow 7-10 business days for plates to arrive by mail. If you choose to retain your plate number, the portal accepts this choice at checkout for an additional $10.00 fee.

When the portal cannot complete a replacement (suspended registration, E-Check non-compliance in applicable counties, or title-related holds), use a deputy registrar office instead. Mail-in packages are sent to 1970 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43223 and must include:

  • A completed application and payment by check or money order
  • A copy of the current registration card, if available

If your replacement is eligible for OPLATES, use it; otherwise, visit a deputy registrar.

How Much is License Plate Replacement in Ohio?

The base license plate fee is straightforward, but additional fees for number retention and local tax can alter the total depending on your taxing district and your choice.

  • Replacing one plate: $15.00. Replacing two plates: $16.25. Both amounts include the deputy registrar service fee, according to the Ohio BMV fee schedule (updated January 2026).
  • Retaining your existing plate number adds $10.00 to either amount. Personalized and reserved numbers are not subject to number retention; they have their own annual special fees.
  • Permissive tax varies by taxing district from $0 to $30.00, assessed in $5.00 increments (Ohio BMV tax distribution). The tax applies upon replacement if the transaction resets the registration period.
  • Sticker-only replacement (no plate): $9.00. Registration card duplicate only: $9.00.

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