How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in Ohio
Ohio has a 48 hours (public) / 10 days (private) wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
48 hours (public) / 10 days (private) wait required. Vehicles on public roads may be removed after 48 hours. Vehicles on private property require 10-day notice to owner before removal.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder; posting on vehicle for 72 hours
Ohio requires the towing company to search BMV records and send notice within 5 business days of towing.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder has 30 days after notice to redeem or waive interest
Ohio lienholders who do not respond within 30 days are deemed to have waived their lien — this waiver is noted on the title.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Certificate of Title for Unclaimed Vehicle — BMV 4809
Apply at any Ohio BMV deputy registrar. Towing company or storage facility is the eligible applicant.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Only licensed towing and storage companies may apply
- Vehicle must be free from all prior liens (waived or paid) before clean title issues
- Any county BMV deputy registrar can process the application
Ohio-Specific Note
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in Ohio?
Ohio requires a 48 hours (public) / 10 days (private) wait period. Vehicles on public roads may be removed after 48 hours. Vehicles on private property require 10-day notice to owner before removal.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in Ohio?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder; posting on vehicle for 72 hours. Ohio requires the towing company to search BMV records and send notice within 5 business days of towing.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in Ohio?
$15 BMV title fee + towing and storage. Ohio caps non-consent towing at $95 (light duty) and $150 (heavy duty). Storage: up to $25/day for first 30 days.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in Ohio?
45–60 days. Ohio BMV processes in 15–20 business days. Total with wait periods: 6–8 weeks.
Does Ohio require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Ohio does not require a surety bond for standard abandoned vehicle titles processed through BMV 4809.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant Ohio bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.