Once you earn the privilege to drive in Ohio, it's important to maintain a valid license. If you let your license expire, you might be in a situation where you have to start the licensing process over again. Here is the information you'll need to renew your driver's license in Ohio.
When to Renew Your Ohio License
Did you know you can renew your license anytime before its expiration date? If you renew your license more than 90 days before it expires, your license will expire in three years, but if you renew your license less than 90 days before it expires, your license will expire in four years.
So, to give yourself one extra year of BMV freedom, we recommend renewing one or two months before your license expires. The Ohio BMV also allows you six months after your license expires to renew it without having to re-apply for a license.
What If I'm Under 21?
If you are under the age of 21, your license will expire on your 21st birthday regardless of when you first got it. You have exactly 30 days after your birthday to go get your new license. Put a note in your calendar to go to the BMV, of course after your exciting 21st birthday extravaganza.
Where to Go for Your Ohio License Renewal
There are several places to renew your license across the state of Ohio — and not just in large cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. According to the BMV's service location finder, there are 179 deputy registrar license agencies in Ohio. There are multiple locations in highly populated counties, and below is a partial list:
Columbus BMV Locations
1583 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43209
4503 Kenny Road, Columbus, Ohio 43220
5332 Westpointe Plaza Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43228
Cincinnati BMV Locations
4566 Montgomery Road, Suite 23, Cincinnati, Ohio 45212
11177 Reading Road, Suite 203, Sharonville, Ohio 45241
3218 West Galbraith Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45239
138 E. Court St, Room 100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
5694 Harrison Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45248
Cleveland BMV Locations
2765 East 55th Street, Suite 4, Cleveland, Ohio 4410
2173 South Taylor Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118
What to Bring to the Ohio BMV for License Renewal
To get your license renewed, you need to prove your identity and your address. There are five pieces of information your documents must show:
Full legal name
Date of birth
Your Ohio address
Legal presence in the U.S.
Social Security number
Therefore, below are some of the documents you'll need (as appropriate):
U.S. Birth Certificate or U.S. Passport
Social Security card or W-2 Form
A document that proves your street address like a utility bill or school record
Citizenship documentation
The BMV has an official form that provides more information on acceptable documents.
What Happens if You Don't Renew Your Ohio License in Time?
Keep in mind that it is illegal to drive with an expired license. So if you want to continue driving, please renew your license before it expires. Driving with an expired license in Ohio is considered a misdemeanor, but the penalties get more severe for repeat offenses. If you are convicted twice of driving with an expired license, then you may face up to six months of jail time and up to $1,000 in fines.
What If My License Has Expired For More Than Six Months?
If your license has expired for more than six months, then you can't simply renew. Instead, you will need to get a temporary permit (TIPIC) and then complete the driving and maneuverability test before you can get a full license again.
Keep Your Driving Privileges For Life
While there is sometimes burdensome paperwork involved in driving, the privilege is worth it. It is not enough to practice driving and take a test. Being a safe and confident driver is a continual learning process.
Do you want more information on Ohio's driving rules or help to become a better driver? Learn more about online driver's education.
Updated 7/21/22