Article Guide
The BMV 4526 form is an essential document for Ohio residents looking to obtain free boat trailer plates. This application not only serves as a request for the plates but also includes important instructions for both new issuances and renewals. When filling out the form, applicants must provide specific details such as the trailer's plate number, vehicle year, make, type, serial number, and purchase date. Personal information is also required, including the applicant's name, social security number, Ohio driver’s license or ID number, address, and contact number. For new issuances, several supporting documents must be submitted, including an Affidavit for Registration and proof of weight. Renewal applicants have additional requirements depending on their status, such as documentation for disabled veterans or former prisoners of war. It’s crucial to ensure all necessary paperwork is included to avoid delays. Understanding these details can make the process smoother and help you secure your trailer plates efficiently.
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OHIO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
BUREAU OF MOTOR VEHICLES
APPLICATION AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FREE BOAT TRAILER PLATES
TYPE OR PRINT LEGIBLY
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NEW ISSUANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Return this application with the following:
Affidavit for Registration.
Manufacturers Statement of Origin or Certificate of Origin.
Official weight slip or copy of previous owner’s Ohio
RENEWAL INSTRUCTIONS
1.If the applicant Is a Disabled Veteran:
A letter from the Veterans Administration stating that the applicant is 100%
2.If the applicant Is a Former Prisoner of War:
A copy of your Honorable Discharge or Record of Separation (DD214) and any of the following documents showing evidence of Prisoner of War Status:
A.Letter from War Claims Commission.
B.Telegram advising family of POW status.
C.Documentary evidence of POW status from one of the Armed Forces.
3.If the applicant has been awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor:
Any documentary evidence of Award from one of the Armed Forces to the United States.
*If you wish to display your plates on a different trailer than was previously registered, you must complete an Application for Transfer of Disabled Veteran POW (BMV 4506) and complete the requirements listed above.
Contact this office at (614)
Submit all information to: The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attn: Gratis Unit, P.O. BOX 16521, Columbus, Ohio
YOU WILL LOSE YOUR DRIVER LICENSE FOR AT LEAST 90 DAYS IF YOU DRIVE WITHOUT INSURANCE OR OTHER ACCEPTABLE FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY COVERAGE
In Ohio, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without insurance or other financial responsibility (FR) coverage.
It is also illegal for any motor vehicle owner to allow anyone else to drive the owner’s vehicle without FR coverage.
PROOF OF COVERAGE IS REQUIRED: Whenever a police officer issues a traffic ticket At all vehicle inspection stops Upon traffic court appearances and Upon random checks by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.
ANY DRIVER OR OWNER WHO FAILS TO SHOW PROOF OF INSURANCE OR OTHER COVERAGE WILL: Lose his or her driver license for 90 DAYS on first offense, ONE YEAR on second offense and TWO YEARS on additional offenses Lose his or her license plates and vehicle registration Pay reinstatement fees of $100.00 for first offense, $300.00 for second offense, $600.00 for third and subsequent offenses Pay a $50.00 penalty for any failure to surrender his or her driver license, license plates, or registration AND Be required to maintain special FR coverage
ONCE THIS SUSPENSION IS IN EFFECT: Any driver or owner who violates the suspension will have his or her vehicle immobilized and his or her license plates confiscated for at least 30 DAYS first offense and 60 DAYS second offense. For third or subsequent offenses, the vehicle will be forfeited and sold and the person will not be permitted to register any motor vehicle in Ohio for FIVE YEARS.
IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WITHOUT INSURANCE OR OTHER FR COVERAGE: In addition to all the penalties listed above, you may have A SECURITY SUSPENSION for TWO YEARS or more and A JUDGMENT SUSPENSION INDEFINITELY (until all damages have been satisfied).
THESE PENALTIES ARE IN ADDITION TO ANY FINES OR PENALTIES IMPOSED BY A COURT OF LAW.
WARNING: THESE LAWS DO NOT PREVENT THE POSSIBILITY THAT YOU MAY BE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WITH A PERSON WHO HAS NO INSURANCE OR OTHER FR COVERAGE.
WHEN REQUIRED, PROOF OF COVERAGE MAY BE SHOWN BY ANY OF THE FOLLOWING: AN INSURANCE POLICY showing automobile liability insurance of a least $12,500 bodily injury per person, $25,000 injury two or more persons, and $7,500 property damage AN INSURANCE IDENTIFICATION CARD (same coverage) A SURETY BOND OF $30,000 issued by any authorized surety company or insurance company A BMV BOND SECURED BY REAL ESTATE having equity of at least $60,000 A BMV CERTIFICATE FOR MONEY OR GOVERNMENT BONDS in the amount of $30,000 on deposit with the Ohio Treasurer of State A BMV CERTIFICATE OF
If applying for a driver license or permit, I affirm that I now have insurance or other financial responsibility coverage and that I will not operate any motor vehicle without FR coverage, and that I received an FR coverage notice form.
If registering a motor vehicle, I affirm that all owners (or lessees of leased vehicles) now have insurance or other FR coverage and will not operate or permit the operation of this motor vehicle without FR coverage.
SIGNATURE
X
DATE
BMV 4526 11/09
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Fact Description |
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| Form Purpose | The BMV 4526 form is used to apply for free boat trailer plates in Ohio. |
| Governing Law | This form is governed by Ohio Revised Code Section 4503.10. |
| Eligibility | Eligible applicants include disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, and recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor. |
| Required Documents | Applicants must submit an Affidavit for Registration and proof of ownership, such as a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin. |
| Renewal Process | Renewal requires specific documentation based on the applicant's eligibility status, including letters from the Veterans Administration for disabled veterans. |
| Contact Information | For assistance, contact the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles at (614) 752-7518 or visit www.ohiobmv.com. |
| Submission Address | Applications should be sent to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attn: Gratis Unit, P.O. Box 16521, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521. |
| Insurance Requirement | Ohio law requires proof of financial responsibility to operate any motor vehicle. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Failing to show proof of insurance can result in license suspension and fines. |
Bmv 4526 Ohio: Usage Guidelines
Filling out the BMV 4526 form is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure all necessary information is accurately provided. After completing the form, you will need to submit it along with required documentation to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles for processing.
- Obtain the Form: Download or print the BMV 4526 form from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles website.
- Fill in Vehicle Information: Enter the plate number, vehicle year, make, type, serial number, and purchase date. Ensure that all information is accurate and legible.
- Provide Personal Information: Fill in your name, social security number, Ohio driver’s license or ID number, address (including street, city, county, state, and ZIP code), and telephone number.
- Sign and Date: At the bottom of the form, sign and date where indicated to certify that the information provided is true and correct.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, including an Affidavit for Registration, Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin or Certificate of Origin, and an official weight slip or a copy of the previous owner’s Ohio Non-Commercial Registration with a notarized original weight affidavit (BMV 5728).
- Include Additional Documentation (if applicable): If you are a disabled veteran, former prisoner of war, or have been awarded a Congressional Medal of Honor, include the required supporting documents as specified on the form.
- Submit Your Application: Send the completed form and all required documents to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attn: Gratis Unit, P.O. Box 16521, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the BMV 4526 form used for?
The BMV 4526 form is an application for free boat trailer plates in Ohio. It is specifically designed for individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria, such as disabled veterans or former prisoners of war, allowing them to register their boat trailers without incurring fees.
Who is eligible to apply for free boat trailer plates?
Eligibility for free boat trailer plates includes disabled veterans who are 100% service-connected disabled, former prisoners of war, and individuals who have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Each category has specific documentation requirements that must be submitted along with the application.
What documents do I need to submit with the BMV 4526 form?
When submitting the BMV 4526 form, you must include an Affidavit for Registration, a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or Certificate of Origin, and an official weight slip or a copy of the previous owner's Ohio Non-Commercial Registration. If applicable, a notarized original weight affidavit (BMV 5728) is also required.
How do I renew my free boat trailer plates?
Renewal of free boat trailer plates requires specific documentation based on your eligibility. For disabled veterans, a letter from the Veterans Administration is necessary. Former prisoners of war must provide a copy of their Honorable Discharge (DD214) along with evidence of POW status. For Congressional Medal of Honor recipients, documentary evidence of the award is required. All documents must be submitted with the renewal application.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Ohio?
Driving without insurance in Ohio can lead to serious consequences. If caught, you could lose your driver’s license for at least 90 days on your first offense. Subsequent offenses can result in even longer suspensions, fines, and the requirement to maintain high-risk insurance for several years. Additionally, your vehicle may be immobilized, and your plates confiscated.
How can I prove I have insurance or financial responsibility coverage?
You can demonstrate proof of insurance or financial responsibility coverage in several ways. Acceptable forms include an insurance policy, an insurance identification card, a surety bond, or a BMV bond secured by real estate. Additionally, a BMV certificate for money or government bonds or a certificate of self-insurance may also be valid, depending on your situation.
Where do I send my completed BMV 4526 application?
Once you have completed the BMV 4526 application and gathered all required documents, send everything to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The address is Attn: Gratis Unit, P.O. BOX 16521, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521. Ensure that all documents are included to avoid any delays in processing.
What should I do if I have questions about the application process?
If you have questions regarding the BMV 4526 form or the application process, you can contact the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles at (614) 752-7518. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.ohiobmv.com for more information and resources.
Common mistakes
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Illegible handwriting: Filling out the form in a way that is hard to read can lead to mistakes in processing. Ensure that all information is typed or printed clearly.
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Missing information: Omitting required fields, such as your name, address, or vehicle details, can delay your application. Double-check that all sections are complete.
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Incorrect Social Security Number: Providing an incorrect or incomplete Social Security number can result in application rejection. Verify that the number is accurate before submission.
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Not including supporting documents: Failing to attach necessary documents, like the Affidavit for Registration or proof of veteran status, may lead to processing delays. Ensure all required documents are included.
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Signature errors: Forgetting to sign the form or signing in the wrong place can invalidate the application. Always check that your signature is present and correctly placed.
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Incorrect purchase date: Entering the wrong purchase date for the trailer can cause confusion. Make sure to use the exact date of purchase.
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Inaccurate vehicle information: Providing incorrect details about the vehicle, such as the make, model, or serial number, can lead to complications. Verify that all vehicle information is correct.
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Not following renewal instructions: If applying for a renewal, failing to include the required documentation specific to your status (like being a disabled veteran) can result in denial. Pay close attention to the renewal instructions.
Documents used along the form
When applying for free boat trailer plates in Ohio using the BMV 4526 form, there are several other documents that you may need to gather. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose and helps ensure that your application is complete and meets all necessary requirements. Here’s a quick rundown of these important documents:
- Affidavit for Registration: This document is a sworn statement that provides necessary details about the ownership and registration of the boat trailer. It confirms that the information you provided is accurate.
- Manufacturers Statement of Origin (MSO): This is a document issued by the manufacturer of the trailer that proves ownership and provides details about the trailer, such as its make, model, and serial number.
- Certificate of Origin: Similar to the MSO, this document verifies the origin of the trailer and is often required for registration purposes, especially for newly manufactured trailers.
- Official Weight Slip: This slip certifies the weight of the trailer, which is crucial for registration. It can be obtained from a certified scale or weigh station.
- Ohio Non-Commercial Registration: If the trailer was previously registered in Ohio, this document shows its past registration status and can help expedite the new registration process.
- Notarized Original Weight Affidavit (BMV 5728): This affidavit provides a sworn statement regarding the weight of the trailer, verified by a notary public, which is often required for registration.
- Letter from Veterans Administration: For disabled veterans applying for special plates, this letter confirms the applicant's 100% service-connected disability status.
- Honorable Discharge or DD214: Former prisoners of war must provide this document to verify their status and eligibility for special registration plates.
- Documentary Evidence of Congressional Medal of Honor: If applicable, this document serves as proof of the award and is required for registration of special plates.
Having these documents ready can make your application process smoother and help you avoid delays. Always check for the latest requirements and guidelines, as they can change. Being prepared is the key to a successful application!
Similar forms
The BMV 4526 form in Ohio serves as an application for free boat trailer plates. Several other documents share similarities with this form, particularly in their purpose and the information they require. Below is a list of eight similar documents:
- BMV 4506 - Application for Transfer of Disabled Veteran POW: This form is used to transfer the registration of plates from one trailer to another, similar to how the BMV 4526 handles new registrations.
- BMV 5728 - Weight Affidavit: This document provides proof of the weight of a vehicle, which is also a requirement when applying for trailer plates.
- BMV 5736 - Application for Special Plates: Like the BMV 4526, this form is used to apply for special license plates and requires similar personal and vehicle information.
- BMV 1173 - Vehicle Registration Application: This application is used for registering any motor vehicle, requiring details about the owner and the vehicle, akin to the BMV 4526.
- BMV 740 - Application for Duplicate Title: This form is similar as it requires personal identification and vehicle details, particularly when ownership needs to be verified.
- BMV 5746 - Application for Historical Vehicle Registration: This document is for registering historical vehicles, sharing the need for detailed vehicle information and owner identification.
- BMV 5716 - Application for a Certificate of Title: This application is necessary for obtaining a title for a vehicle, similar in its requirement for owner and vehicle details.
- BMV 5411 - Affidavit for Registration: This affidavit is often used in conjunction with the BMV 4526, as it provides necessary declarations regarding ownership and registration status.
Each of these documents plays a role in vehicle registration and ownership verification, similar to the BMV 4526 form.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the BMV 4526 Ohio form, it’s crucial to ensure accuracy and completeness. Here’s a list of essential do's and don’ts to guide you through the process:
- Do type or print your information legibly. Clear handwriting prevents misunderstandings.
- Do include all required documents, such as the Affidavit for Registration and the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin.
- Do double-check that your social security number and Ohio driver’s license or ID number are correct.
- Do sign and date the form before submission. An unsigned form will be rejected.
- Don't leave any required fields blank. Incomplete forms can delay processing.
- Don't forget to provide your current address and telephone number. This information is vital for communication.
- Don't submit the form without reviewing all attached documents to ensure they meet the requirements.
Following these guidelines can help you avoid unnecessary delays and complications. Take the time to ensure everything is correct before you send it off.
Misconceptions
Understanding the BMV 4526 Ohio form is essential for those applying for free boat trailer plates. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are seven common misconceptions:
- The form is only for new applicants. Many believe the BMV 4526 is solely for new issuances. In reality, it also includes renewal instructions for eligible applicants.
- Only veterans can apply for free boat trailer plates. While veterans, including disabled veterans and former prisoners of war, have specific provisions, other eligible individuals may also qualify under different criteria.
- You do not need to provide any documentation. Some assume that submitting the form alone is sufficient. However, applicants must include various documents, such as an affidavit for registration and proof of eligibility.
- Proof of insurance is not necessary. Many think insurance proof is irrelevant when applying for trailer plates. In fact, applicants must affirm that they have insurance or financial responsibility coverage.
- There are no penalties for driving without insurance. Some individuals believe that driving without insurance has no consequences. This is incorrect; penalties include license suspension and fines.
- The application process is the same for everyone. The requirements differ based on the applicant's status, such as being a disabled veteran or a former prisoner of war. Specific documents are necessary for each category.
- Once submitted, the application cannot be changed. Some think that any errors in the application are permanent. However, applicants can correct mistakes before final approval.
By addressing these misconceptions, applicants can navigate the process more effectively and ensure they meet all requirements for obtaining free boat trailer plates in Ohio.
Key takeaways
When filling out and using the BMV 4526 Ohio form for free boat trailer plates, it is essential to understand the process thoroughly. Here are some key takeaways:
- Legibility is crucial: Ensure that all information is typed or printed clearly to avoid processing delays.
- Required documents: Attach necessary documents such as the Affidavit for Registration and the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin.
- Weight documentation: Provide an official weight slip or a copy of the previous owner's Ohio Non-Commercial Registration along with a notarized original weight affidavit (BMV 5728).
- Eligibility criteria: Disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, and recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor must include specific documentation to qualify for free plates.
- Application for transfer: If you wish to display your plates on a different trailer, complete the Application for Transfer of Disabled Veteran POW (BMV 4506).
- Contact information: For questions, reach out to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles at (614) 752-7518 or visit their website.
- Submit your application: Send all completed forms and documents to the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attn: Gratis Unit, P.O. BOX 16521, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6521.
- Insurance requirements: It is illegal to drive without insurance or acceptable financial responsibility coverage in Ohio.
- Penalties for non-compliance: Failing to show proof of insurance can result in severe penalties, including license suspension and fines.
Understanding these points will help ensure a smooth application process for obtaining free boat trailer plates in Ohio.