Ohio Vehicle Tax Overview
Ohio's vehicle sales tax system combines state and county rates, with additional permissive taxes in some areas. The state also uses a complex registration fee system based on vehicle type and county of residence.
Sales Tax Structure
- State Rate: 5.75%
- County Rates: 0.25% to 2.25%
- Total Range: 6.00% to 8.00%
- Trade-In: Value deducted from taxable amount
Major County Rates (Total)
- Franklin (Columbus): 7.50%
- Cuyahoga (Cleveland): 8.00%
- Hamilton (Cincinnati): 7.80%
- Summit (Akron): 6.75%
- Montgomery (Dayton): 7.50%
Registration Fees (2024)
- Passenger Vehicles: $34.50 base fee
- Title Fee: $15
- Plate Fee: $11.75
- Deputy Registrar Fee: $5
- Local Permissive Tax: Up to $20 per district
Additional County Fees
- E-Check Counties: Emissions testing fee
- Transportation Districts: Extra $5-$20
- Municipal Tax: Varies by city
- Late Fees: $20 plus penalties
Tax Exemptions
- Vehicles transferred between spouses
- Inherited vehicles
- Certain nonprofit organizations
- Disabled veterans (specific conditions)
- Out-of-state residents (temporary tags)
Emissions Testing
- Required Counties: 7 Northeast Ohio counties
- Test Fee: Free for first test
- Frequency: Every two years
- Exemptions:
- Vehicles 4 years or newer
- 25 years or older
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles
Registration Requirements
- New Residents: 30 days to register
- Insurance: Continuous coverage required
- Documentation:
- Valid Ohio driver's license
- Proof of insurance
- Vehicle title
- E-Check (if applicable)
Special Vehicle Categories
- Electric Vehicles: Additional $200 annual fee
- Hybrid Vehicles: Additional $100 annual fee
- Historical Vehicles: One-time registration
- Commercial Vehicles: Weight-based fees
Money-Saving Tips
- Compare county tax rates
- Trade-in reduces taxable amount
- Multi-year registration available
- Check for veteran benefits
- Keep E-Check records
Common Questions
- Q: Can I register online?
A: Yes, for renewals only
- Q: How often must I renew?
A: Annually, or multi-year options available
- Q: Where do I get an E-Check?
A: Certified testing locations in required counties