Ohio BMV Form 5008 Notarized Consent Guide – The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) protects personal information in motor vehicle records under state and federal law. When a third party needs access to another person’s driver license, vehicle registration, title, or related records, the individual whose information is sought must generally provide written consent. Ohio Form BMV 5008, the Notarized Written Consent Release of Personal Information, is the official document used for this purpose.
This guide explains what Form BMV 5008 is, when it is required, how to complete it correctly, and how it works with the Ohio BMV Record Request Form (BMV 1173). Information is based on official Ohio BMV resources and Ohio Revised Code provisions current as of the latest available updates.
What Is Ohio Form BMV 5008?
Form BMV 5008 is an official Ohio Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Motor Vehicles document. It allows an individual to authorize the Ohio BMV and all Clerk of Courts Title Offices to release their personal information to a named person or organization.
The form covers personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and driver license number, as well as records related to a driver license, state identification card, vehicle registration, and Certificate of Title. The person completing the form may also choose whether to authorize the release of medical and disability information.
The form must be signed by the individual giving consent and notarized. Without proper notarization, the BMV will not accept it for third-party record requests.
You can download the current official PDF of Form BMV 5008 here: Download Ohio BMV Form 5008 (PDF).
The form is also listed on the official Ohio BMV Documents & Fees page: Ohio BMV Forms.
When Is Form BMV 5008 Required?
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 4501.27 and related administrative rules, the BMV generally may not disclose personal information from motor vehicle records except in specific permitted situations. One of those situations is when the individual whose information is requested has given written consent.
Form BMV 5008 is most commonly required when someone other than the record holder requests certified BMV records using Form BMV 1173 (Ohio BMV Record Request Form). On Form BMV 1173, the requester must select the option “With written consent of other person” and attach the original completed, notarized, and signed BMV 5008.
Common situations include:
- An attorney, insurance company, or family member needing driving or vehicle records with the person’s permission
- Employers or organizations conducting authorized background checks where written consent is provided
- Other legitimate third-party requests that rely on the individual’s authorization rather than a statutory exception
Individuals requesting their own records do not need Form BMV 5008. Certain government agencies, law enforcement, and other parties listed under the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) exceptions and Ohio law may also obtain records without this form when they qualify under a permitted use.
For the official record request process and Form BMV 1173, visit the BMV online record request service: Ohio BMV Online Record Request or download Form BMV 1173 from the BMV forms page.
How to Complete Ohio Form BMV 5008?
The form is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully:
- Full Name and Social Security Number — Print or type your full legal name and Social Security number in the spaces provided. These identifiers help the BMV locate the correct records.
- Authorized Recipient — Clearly write the full name of the person or organization you are authorizing to receive your information.
- Scope of Authorization — The form states that the authorization covers records pertaining to your driver license, state identification card, vehicle registration, and Certificate of Title.
- Medical and Disability Information — Check “YES” or “NO” to indicate whether you also authorize the release of medical and disability information.
- Signature and Date — Sign and date the form in the presence of a notary public. Do not sign beforehand.
- Notary Section — The notary will complete the acknowledgment, including the date, their signature, printed name, commission expiration, and seal.
Use black ink and write clearly. Incomplete or illegible forms may be rejected. Always use the official current version of the form from the Ohio BMV.
Notarization Requirements
Notarization is mandatory. The person giving consent must appear before a notary public (or other authorized officer) and acknowledge that the consent is voluntary. The notary then completes the notarial certificate on the form.
Ohio notaries must follow state notary laws. Bring valid photo identification. Once notarized, the original form (not a copy) is typically required when attaching it to a BMV 1173 record request submitted by mail.
Keep a copy of the completed and notarized form for your records.
Submitting the Form with a Record Request
To request another person’s records with consent:
- Complete Form BMV 1173, selecting the written consent option.
- Attach the original notarized Form BMV 5008.
- Include the required fee (commonly $5.00 per record type as of recent BMV guidance; confirm current fees) payable to the Ohio Treasurer of State.
- Mail the package to the address listed on Form BMV 1173 (typically Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Attn: BMV Records, P.O. Box 16520, Columbus, Ohio 43216-6520).
Online record requests may have different procedures for consent documentation. Check the official online portal for current instructions: BMV Online Record Request.
Processing times vary. Mail requests can take several weeks.
Legal Background
Ohio Revised Code Section 4501.27 governs the confidentiality of personal information in BMV motor vehicle records. It implements protections consistent with the federal Driver’s Privacy Protection Act. Disclosure is limited to permitted uses, one of which is when the individual provides written consent.
Read the full statute here: Ohio Revised Code Section 4501.27.
Related administrative rules appear in the Ohio Administrative Code under Chapter 4501:1-12. Sensitive personal information has additional restrictions.
The BMV does not routinely release Social Security numbers, photographs, or certain other data even with consent in some cases. Always review the latest official guidance.
Tips for Successful Use of Form BMV 5008
- Download the form only from official Ohio government sources to ensure you have the current version.
- Verify the recipient’s exact legal name or organization name before completing the form.
- Decide carefully whether to authorize medical and disability information.
- Submit the original notarized form when required; photocopies are often not accepted for mail requests.
- Confirm current fees and mailing addresses on the latest BMV 1173 form or the official website, as details can change.
- If you are requesting your own records, you do not need Form BMV 5008.
Where to Get Help?
For official information, forms, and updates, visit the Ohio BMV website: www.bmv.ohio.gov.
Contact the BMV Records section using the information provided on current forms or the website. County Clerk of Courts Title Offices can also assist with title-related questions.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Requirements and form versions can change. Always rely on the most recent official Ohio BMV documents and instructions.
Conclusion
Ohio Form BMV 5008 provides a clear, notarized way for individuals to authorize the release of their BMV personal information to a designated third party. By completing the form accurately, having it properly notarized, and attaching it to a valid record request when required, you help ensure the BMV can process the request in compliance with privacy laws.
Download the official form today: Ohio BMV Form 5008 PDF. For all related forms and current procedures, visit the Ohio BMV Documents & Fees page.