Yes. If a vehicle was titled in another state and you want to get an Ohio title for it, Ohio requires a VIN inspection (also known as an out-of-state vehicle inspection). This inspection is very simple – it’s not a mechanical or safety inspection, but rather a verification of the car’s Vehicle Identification Number and some basic details. The purpose is to ensure the VIN on the vehicle matches the paperwork and to check the odometer reading for recording.
You can get a VIN inspection done at any Ohio deputy registrar license agency, or at certain car dealerships and law enforcement offices authorized to do these checks. It usually takes just a few minutes for an official to compare the VIN on your car to the one on the out-of-state title and then fill out the Ohio inspection form (BMV Form 1373). The fee is modest (around $5–$7).
Once the VIN inspection is completed, you’ll receive a form or stamp on your Ohio title application indicating the vehicle passed the inspection. You must bring this inspection form with you to the title office – without it, the Clerk of Courts will not issue an Ohio title for an out-of-state vehicle. Essentially, whenever you’re transferring a title from another state into Ohio, budget a short extra step to get that VIN inspection done first. If you use our services, we’ll remind you of this requirement and even direct you to the nearest inspection station to make the process easier.
