Ohio Documentation and Registration

When purchasing a vehicle from one of our auctions in Ohio, there are a couple of different documentation types you’ll encounter.

When researching a car, ALWAYS review the documentation type in the vehicle detail page. This ensures you're prepared for any additional steps required to obtain a title and register the vehicle. For more detailed and up to date information please visit the Ohio BMV website.

Title

If you purchased a vehicle from one of our auctions and received a clean title, registration can work just like it would if the vehicle was purchased from a dealership or private party. Here are the instructions from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles:

1. Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (Form BMV 3774).​
2. Gather Required Documents:
   1. Assigned vehicle title from the seller.
   2. Proof of identification.
   3. Proof of Ohio residency.
   4. Proof of insurance.​
3. Submit to County Clerk of Courts Title Office: Take the completed application and documents to your local county Clerk of Courts Title Office.​
4. Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary by county and vehicle type; check with your local Clerk of Courts for specifics.​

Abandoned Vehicle Packet 

If you received an abandoned vehicle packet there are extra steps you may need to take depending on what comes in the packet. Always consult the Ohio BMV for more detailed information and the seller at time of pickup. Generally, this is the documentation you should expect to see in the packet.

1. Unclaimed Motor Vehicle Affidavit (BMV 4202 or BMV 4205): This is the main form used to request a certificate of title for an abandoned vehicle. 
2. Notification of Owner/Lienholder: Proof that the owner and any lienholder were notified of the intention to obtain title, usually via certified or express mail with return receipt requested. 
3. Title Application: A completed application for a certificate of title in the name of the facility, storage location, or towing service. 
4. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN is essential for identifying the vehicle and linking it to the title application.
5. A Receipt or Bill of Sale: This will be the receipt for your purchase.

Salvage Title

Vehicles with a Salvage Title will first need to be rebuilt and inspected in order to obtain registration and be legally driven in Ohio. Here are the steps from the Ohio BMV:

1. Rebuild the Vehicle: Repair the vehicle to meet Ohio safety and operational standards.​
2. Document Repairs:
   1. Keep receipts for all parts used.
   2. Take before and after photographs of the vehicle.​
3. Obtain Salvage Inspection: Schedule an inspection with the Ohio State Highway Patrol to obtain a Salvage Inspection Certificate.​
4. Apply for Rebuilt Salvage Title: Submit the Salvage Inspection Certificate, original salvage title, and required documents to your local county Clerk of Courts Title Office.​
5. Register the Vehicle: Once the rebuilt title is issued, proceed to register the vehicle with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).​

Lien Sale Packet

If you received a lien sale packet:

1. Review the Packet: Ensure it includes all necessary documents, such as the lien release and authorization for sale.​
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (Form BMV 3774).​
3. Submit to County Clerk of Courts Title Office: Provide the completed application and lien sale documents to your local county Clerk of Courts Title Office.​

Pay Applicable Fees: Fees may vary; consult your local Clerk of Courts.