JUST ASKIN': HOW DO YOU GET A HISTORIC LICENSE PLATE IN OHIO?

It’s obvious that Corvettes and Porsches built in the 1960s and 70s qualify as historical vehicles, but in 2025, even a 1990s-era Toyota can qualify for a historical vehicle license plate. But applicants beware. You may not be able to use your car as you have in the past once you go through the process.

Question: How do you qualify for historic vehicle plates and registration in Ohio?

If you own a vehicle that is more than 25 years old and is used as a collector’s item taken to club activities, tours, parades, and other events, you can sign up for a historical vehicle license plate, according to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Vehicles older than 25 years used for everyday transportation are not eligible. Once you have a historical vehicle plate you cannot use the vehicle for your everyday tasks. Transportation using public roads and highways to and from a mechanic or body shop is allowed. If you violate the law, you can be fined.

How do you register for a historical vehicle license plate? 

Registration for a historical vehicle license plate can be done in person, online at OPLATES.COM, or by mail. You can find a nearby deputy registrar license agency to complete the process in person.

An application and affidavit must be completed and notarized to receive historical vehicle plates.

Applicants must pay a fee of $10 plus registration fees. The plate will be valid without renewal for the life of the vehicle, except in the case of a change of ownership or the creation of a personalized/initial reserve license plate. If the vehicle transfers ownership, the plate needs to be surrendered to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. 

Have a question for Just Askin'? Email us.

The Just Askin' series aims to answer the questions that no one seems to have an answer for, except maybe Google

Do you have a question you want answered? Send it to us at [email protected], ideally with "Just Askin'" in the subject line.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Just Askin': How do you get a historic license plate in Ohio?

2025-11-03T05:08:16Z