The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for issuing driver's licenses and identification cards in the state. A driver's license grants individuals legal permission to drive in Ohio and is an official form of identification.
An identification card does not authorize driving but serves as an official form of identification, which can be helpful for various purposes such as banking, domestic travel, and age verification at venues that require individuals to be 21 and over.
Whether obtaining, renewing, or reinstating a driver's license, understanding the regulations and requirements specific to Ohio driver's licenses is crucial for residents to ensure compliance with the law and enjoy the privileges and benefits of holding a valid license.
What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Ohio?
In Ohio, the state BMV issues different types of driver's licenses to accommodate various vehicle classifications and transportation needs. These licenses include:
Commercial Driver Licenses
Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs) are required for individuals who operate commercial vehicles. There are three classes of CDLs in Ohio:
Class A
This license is for driving multiple vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more. The tow vehicle must also have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more.
Class B
Holders of this license are authorized to operate a single vehicle with a GVWR exceeding 26,000 pounds. However, it does not grant the privilege of towing a trailer with a weight surpassing 10,000 pounds.
Class C
This particular license authorizes driving vehicles that are neither Class A nor Class B but meet specific criteria. Such criteria include vehicles engineered to transport 16 or more individuals, including the driver, or vehicles carrying hazardous materials that mandate the display of placards.
It also covers the operation of school buses not classified as Class A or Class B.
Regular Driver's License (Class D)
To drive a Toyota Fortuner in Ohio, one would typically need a standard driver's license (Class D) as long as the vehicle falls within the parameters allowed for non-commercial driving.
Class D licenses are the most common type of driver's license and cover personal vehicles like cars and SUVs for non-commercial use.
Motorcycle/Motor Scooter Licenses
Individuals must hold a valid license or endorsement to operate a motorcycle or motor scooter on Ohio's public roadways. If the individual does not have a valid driver's license, a license is issued, while an endorsement is displayed on their existing driver's license.
Novice riders are considered as such for one year, and their license will indicate the date when this status expires. Furthermore, a 3-wheeled motorcycle necessitates a 3-wheeled motorcycle license or endorsement, while a 2-wheeled motorcycle requires a valid 2-wheeled motorcycle license or endorsement.
Moped/Motorized Bicycle License
Individuals with a valid driver's license in Ohio do not require an additional endorsement or license to operate a moped or motorized bicycle. However, moped owners must register their vehicles with the Ohio BMV and display a rear license plate as per state regulations.
How To Obtain a Driver's License in Ohio?
Obtaining a driver's license in Ohio varies depending on its type and involves a multi-step process designed to ensure the competency and preparedness of new drivers.
For a regular driver's license, applicants must generally be at least 16 years old and provide proof of lawful presence or citizenship, along with their Social Security number and documents confirming their Ohio residency.
For individuals under 18, completing a driver education course and passing the final exam is mandatory. Additionally, all applicants must obtain an Ohio Temporary Instruction Permit Identification Card (TIPIC), which requires passing a vision test and a knowledge exam.
Once the TIPIC is obtained, applicants can schedule and take the Ohio road test. This practical evaluation involves demonstrating safe driving skills and maneuvers behind the wheel. Applicants must have a sponsor present during the test and provide a vehicle that meets the state's safety and condition requirements.
Upon successfully passing the road test, applicants can then submit their documentation and fees to the motor vehicle department and officially obtain their Ohio driver's license.
Vision Screening and Knowledge Testing
When obtaining a driver's license in Ohio, there are two essential requirements: vision screening and knowledge testing.
Vision screening is mandatory to ensure applicants meet the necessary vision standards for safe driving. Depending on the vision screening results, certain driving restrictions may be imposed.
Knowledge testing is another crucial requirement when applying for a driver's license. To familiarize oneself with the test format and question types, the Ohio BMV offers an online Sample Knowledge Test.
The test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and a passing score of 75% is required. It is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Japanese, Arabic, Somali, Chinese, French, and Russian. For other languages, schedule an appointment at a Driver Exam Station and bring an interpreter.
Successful test takers must obtain a TIPIC, but in the event of a test failure, individuals must wait for one day before attempting to retake the knowledge test. Although there is no limit on the number of attempts, the test can only be taken once daily.
Knowledge testing can be completed in person at a BMV Driver Examination Station, at select BMV deputy registrar license agencies, or online through BMV Online Services.
TIPIC
After completing the vision screening and knowledge test, individuals must visit a deputy registrar license agency within 60 days to purchase a TIPIC.
If the TIPIC is not obtained within this timeframe, the individual must restart the process by undergoing another vision screening and knowledge test.
To acquire a TIPIC, applicants must present acceptable documents that prove their:
- Full legal name
- Citizenship or legal presence
- Birth date
- Social Security number (if assigned)
- Ohio street address
Note that two documents confirming the applicant's address are required for a federally-compliant card.
For the complete list of acceptable documents, visit this page.
TIPIC Restrictions
TIPIC comes with certain restrictions based on the applicant's age.
Individuals under 16 must have a responsible adult, such as a parent, guardian, custodian, licensed driving instructor, or a person aged 21 or older, occupying the front passenger seat.
For those aged 16 to 17, driving is permitted with any valid licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat, except between midnight and 6 a.m., when the driver must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or custodian with a valid driver's license.
Individuals aged 18 and over can only practice driving if accompanied by a licensed driver aged 21 or older.
Regardless of age, all TIPIC holders must carry the TIPIC at all times while driving and ensure that the eligible adult in the front passenger seat is not intoxicated.
Additionally, safety measures like wearing seat belts for both the driver and passengers, avoiding using mobile electronic devices while driving, and ensuring that the number of occupants doesn't exceed the installed safety belts are all important for safe driving and compliance with Ohio's driving regulations.
Driver Education Requirements (Under Age 18)
To obtain a driver's license in Ohio, drivers under 18 must fulfill specific requirements.
They must complete a driver education class from a licensed training school, including 24 hours of classroom or online instruction and 8 hours of driving time.
Additionally, they must accumulate 50 hours of driving practice with a parent or guardian, at least 10 of which must be at night.
Lastly, they must hold a TIPIC for a minimum of six months.
Ohio BMV Road Test
To take the BMV road test in Ohio, drivers must have their TIPIC and, if under 18, a driver's education certificate. They must also provide a vehicle in good condition with valid registration.
Candidates should arrive at least 15 minutes before the test begins, as their vehicle will be inspected.
The road test consists of two parts: driving and maneuverability.
During the driving portion, candidates must demonstrate their skills and knowledge in areas such as the following:
- Backing up
- Starting and stopping the vehicle
- Performing turns
- Using turn signals
- Turning around
- Driving in the appropriate lane
- Accelerating
- Maintaining a safe following distance
Meanwhile, the maneuverability assessment involves tasks like:
- Backing up into the marker box
- Backing up past a center marker
- Aligning the bumper with the marker
- Steering to the right or left of the marker
- Driving forward through a box of markers
- Avoiding running over the markers while exiting the test area
Ohio Driver's License Fees
Applicants should be aware that obtaining a driver's license in Ohio involves various fees. The specific fees depend on factors such as the type of license, age, and other miscellaneous fees. For a complete list of these fees, refer to the Driver License and Identification Card Related Fees section on the Ohio BMV website.
To pay for the license and any applicable fees, visit any Ohio deputy registrar license agency and make payment in cash, check, money order, or credit card. Online payment options are also available through the BMV Online Services.
Once all requirements and fees have been fulfilled, a new driver's license will be delivered within ten business days. After the processing period, individuals can also visit a deputy registrar license agency to get their license.
For additional information on obtaining a regular Ohio driver's license, read the Ohio Driver Manual.
For those interested in commercial driving licenses, motorcycle/motor scooter licenses, and a moped/motorized bicycle license, study the Commercial Driver License Manual and the Motorcycle Operator Manual.
How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Ohio?
Renewing or replacing a driver's license in Ohio requires following specific procedures and providing the necessary documentation. Customers can choose between a Compliant Card or a Standard Card, each requiring different identity documents.
If a current driver's license has expired in less than six months, it can be renewed online through BMV Online Services or at any deputy registrar license agency before the expiration date. Depending on the applicant's choice and qualifications, the renewed license will be valid for four or eight years.
For those turning 21, the renewal process cannot be initiated more than one month or 30 days before their birthday. Licenses issued to individuals aged 65 or older expire after four years, and they are not eligible to apply for an eight-year license.
Suppose a current Ohio driver's license expired less than six months ago and is not presented for renewal. In that case, the applicant must provide proof of their full legal name, birth date, Ohio residency, Social Security number (if assigned), and citizenship or legal presence. In case of a name change, the applicant must provide proof.
If the driver's license has expired for more than six months, the individual must obtain a temporary permit and complete all testing requirements before the issuance of a new license.
Note that Ohio residents temporarily located outside Ohio and military members may have different procedures and requirements for renewing their licenses. For individuals who fall under these categories, visit the Renewal page on the Ohio BMW website.
What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Ohio?
In Ohio, driver's licenses can be suspended for various reasons, including traffic violations, failure to pay court debt, and failure to pay child support. Some suspensions are court-ordered, while others are based on decisions from the Ohio BMV.
Driving with a suspended license in Ohio can result in severe consequences. If caught, individuals may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor, which can lead to fines of up to $1,000 and a maximum of six months in jail. Additionally, the driver's license suspension may be extended for another year.
If the original suspension was due to failure to pay court fines or appear in court, driving under suspension can result in a conviction for an unclassified misdemeanor, leading to additional fines and an order to complete up to 500 hours of community service.
In some cases, the court may impound the vehicle or use an immobilizing device if the driver is caught driving under suspension multiple times. Driving without proof of insurance while under suspension can also lead to additional suspension for non-compliance.
Individuals must follow specific steps to reinstate a suspended license based on the type of suspension. This typically involves paying fines, court costs, and reinstatement fees.
Fines and court costs are payable to the court clerk's office, while reinstatement fees are payable to the Ohio BMV.
For additional information on different types of suspensions and reinstatement requirements, visit the Suspensions and Reinstatements page on the Ohio BMV website.
Can Someone Drive in Ohio With a Foreign License?
If someone from a foreign country is visiting Ohio and has a valid foreign driver's license, they can drive there. However, they must obtain an Ohio driver's license if they plan to stay in the U.S. for more than six months and intend to continue driving. This requirement applies regardless of whether they possess an international driver's license.
Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Ohio?
Foreigners can obtain a driver's license in Ohio, provided they meet certain requirements. Non-U.S. citizens with valid permanent resident or green cards will be issued a regular Ohio driver's license, valid for four or eight years, depending on their choice and qualifications.
However, this license is typically non-renewable and non-transferable, with the same expiration date as the document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While it allows the holder to drive in Ohio and other states, it cannot be renewed in Ohio or transferred to another state.
To obtain a license, non-U.S. citizens must present current USCIS documents and proof of Ohio residency. Common acceptable documents include a visa, valid passport, Employment Authorization Card, I-94 stamped Refugee or Asylum, green card, and proof of Social Security number if assigned.