How to Check Availability for Personalized License Plates in Ohio

by Rex Molder

We show our individuality in a variety of ways, not the least of which is the vehicle we drive. In addition to factors such as make, model and color, personalized license plates give character to your vehicle and let other drivers know a little bit about you. If you are planning to register a vehicle in Ohio and want to apply for personalized plates, you are in luck. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles provides a website that allows owners to check the availability of a particular personalized plate.

Step 1

Navigate to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle's Special Plates Availability Checking website, listed in References.

Step 2

Select the type of vehicle that will display the license plate, and click "Continue."

Step 3

Select the type of plate from the list on the left side of the page. You may choose from standard personalized plates, or from a variety of plates affiliated with various organizations. Click "Continue" once you have made your selection.

Step 4

Enter the letters and numbers you want to include on the plates in the nine provided boxes. Skip a box to represent spaces. Only letters, numbers and spaces are allowed. Click "Continue." The system will check the availability of the plate and either return an error due to the format, state that the plate is unavailable or state that the plate is available. If the plate is available, the page will show additional information about obtaining and using the personalized plate.

Step 5

Click "Continue" to continue the online order process. This is only available if your vehicle is currently licensed in Ohio. If, not, you will need to apply in person at an Ohio BMV field office.

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