Ohio Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws

About This Manual

• Overseen by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
• Provides guidance on motor vehicle laws in Ohio.
• Available in multiple languages and formats on the BMV website.
• Not a substitute for Ohio Revised Code or Ohio Administrative Code.

BMV Online Services

• Knowledge test, driving test scheduling.
• Save place in line at Deputy Registrar.
• Renew/reprint Driver License or ID Card.

Section 1: How to Get Your Driver License

• Vision Screening & Knowledge Testing: Minimum age 15½; test in multiple languages.
• Temporary Instruction Permit ID Card (TIPIC): Must be purchased within 60 days of passing the test.
• Driver Education for Under 18: 24 hours classroom, 8 hours driving, 50 hours supervised practice.
• Motorcycle Ohio: Skills test or Basic Rider Course for licensing.

Section 2: Before You Drive

• Vehicle Inspection: Ensure vehicle safety, check tires, lights.
• Driver Position & Mirrors: Proper seat and mirror adjustments.
• Safety Restraints: Usage of air bags and safety belts.

Section 3: Be Alert

• Vision, Fatigue, Aggressive Driving, Distracted Driving: All can impact driving safety.
• Alcohol, Drugs, and Driving: Illegal to drive under influence; penalties for violations.

Section 4: Rules of the Road

• Speed Limits: Guidelines based on road types and conditions.
• Right-of-Way: Guidelines for intersections and other scenarios.
• Traffic Signals & Signs: Colors, signals, and signs explained.
• Pavement Markings: Indicate lanes and road use.

Section 5: Learning to Drive

• Basic Operations: Starting, stopping, and steering.
• Intersections & Turns: Proper procedures and signals.
• Roundabouts, Lane Travel, Exiting: Navigating and maneuvering.
• Passing & Railroad Crossings: Rules for safe passing.

Section 6: State Laws and Penalties

• Insurance Requirements: Proof of financial responsibility essential.
• Alcohol, Drugs, and Penalties: Detailed consequences for violations.
• Child Passenger Safety Laws: Restraint requirements based on age.

Section 7: Special Driving Situations

• Traffic Stops & Headlights Use: When to use headlights.
• Night/Fog/Winter Driving: Tips for adverse conditions.
• Work Zones: Drive safely around construction zones.

Section 8: Safe Driving Tips

• Visual Search & Speed Management: Techniques for safe driving.
• Space & Communication: Maintaining space buffer and signaling.

Section 9: Sharing the Road

• Pedestrians, Motorcyclists, Bicyclists: Sharing road responsibly.
• Commercial & Emergency Vehicles: Safe practices around larger vehicles.

Section 10: Emergency Situations

• Avoiding Crashes: Strategies to prevent accidents.
• Vehicle Malfunctions: Actions to take when experiencing issues.

Section 11: Taking the Driving Test

• Maneuverability & Skills Testing: Requirements and procedures.
• Abbreviated Adult Driver Training: For those who fail the driving test.

Section 12: Purchase Your Driver License

• Compliant vs. Standard License: Differences and requirements.
• Renewal: Process and restrictions for new and renewing drivers.

Section 13: What Else Should I Know?

• New Ohio Residents: Licensing and registration requirements.
• Organ Donor, Voter Registration: Options available at license issuance.
• Emergency Contact Information: Program for emergency situations.