I just purchased a vehicle from Snyder Buick GMC. How do I handle the title, registration, and license plates?

Once you take delivery of your vehicle from Snyder Buick GMC, registering and permanently plating it is the customer's responsibility. The steps trip up plenty of buyers, whether it is your first vehicle purchase or your tenth. The answers below walk through how titling, registration, and license plates work in the state of Ohio.

What is a certificate of title?

A certificate of title is the legal document proving who owns a vehicle. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will ask for either your certificate of title or a memorandum title before it can register your vehicle and issue license plates.

What is the difference between a certificate of title and a memorandum title?

A certificate of title is issued once a vehicle carries no liens, and it is the document used to transfer ownership. Financing the vehicle places a lien on it, and in that situation the county title office issues a memorandum title instead. Think of a memorandum title as a temporary stand-in that exists for one reason: getting your license plates. It typically arrives within 10 to 14 days, and in most cases Snyder Buick GMC handles the paperwork and lets you know as soon as it comes in.

What happens when I pay off my loan?

After the loan is satisfied, your lender sends you a lien release or an electronic title. Bring that lien release to your county title office and they will issue an original certificate of title in your name. Note that the county title office and the BMV are two different offices, so make sure you are headed to the right one.

What if I paid cash or have no loan?

With no lien on the vehicle, the dealership can transfer a new certificate of title directly into your name. Expect that new title to be ready roughly 24 to 48 hours after purchase, depending on which day of the week you bought.

How do I register and plate my new vehicle?

Bring your certificate of title or memorandum title to the BMV, where you can register the vehicle and either purchase new plates or move your existing plates onto it. Call your local BMV branch or check their website first so you know exactly what else to bring with you.

Is my vehicle legal to drive at the time of purchase?

Yes, as long as the vehicle is carrying a temporary tag. Snyder Buick GMC can issue an Ohio temporary tag, or you can run the plates and tags from your trade-in provided that registration is still current. Buyers without an active-plated trade-in receive a temporary tag from the dealership. Ohio temporary tags are good for 45 days, and your vehicle needs to be registered and permanently plated before that window closes.