Ohio BMV 3713 Form: Replacement VIN Guide

Ohio BMV 3713 Form: Replacement VIN Guide – If the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate on your motor vehicle in Ohio has been damaged, destroyed, or is missing, you must apply for a replacement using Ohio Form BMV 3713. This official form from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), allows vehicle owners or their insurers to request a replacement VIN plate or derivative identification numbers/stickers. The process involves a mandatory State Highway Patrol inspection and is governed by Ohio Administrative Code Rule 4501:1-11-01.

This guide provides current, step-by-step instructions based on official Ohio government sources for U.S. residents, particularly Ohio vehicle owners. Always verify details on official state websites, as procedures can update.

What Is Ohio Form BMV 3713?

Form BMV 3713 is the official “Application for Replacement Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a Motor Vehicle” issued by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The current version (BMV 3713 12/25) is used when the original VIN plate or related parts identification has been removed, defaced, covered, altered, or destroyed.

It covers both full VIN plate replacement and vehicle parts derivative VIN plates or stickers. The form must be completed, notarized in many cases, and submitted with supporting documents after a required inspection.

Download the official PDF form here: Ohio BMV 3713 Application for Replacement VIN (PDF).

You can also find it listed under Titles forms on the official Ohio BMV Documents & Fees page.

Who Can Apply for a Replacement VIN in Ohio?

According to the form instructions and Ohio Administrative Code 4501:1-11-01:

  • The vehicle owner, or
  • The owner’s insurer

A replacement VIN plate may be requested when the existing VIN has been damaged, destroyed, or is missing. The application can be made by the owner or the insurer (with insurer details provided on the form).

You must specify the county where the replacement title will be issued.

When Do You Need a Replacement VIN Plate?

Common situations include:

  • VIN plate damaged by accident, ordinary wear and tear, or other casualty (not intended to conceal identity)
  • VIN plate removed, defaced, covered, altered, or destroyed by another person without the owner’s consent
  • Missing or illegible VIN that prevents proper identification, titling, or registration

The process is not limited to salvage vehicles — the salvage inspection receipt is used because State Highway Patrol inspectors handle these dual duties.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the BMV 3713 Application Process

Important: All inspection steps must be completed before mailing the BMV 3713 application.

1. Obtain a Salvage Receipt for Inspection

Visit any Ohio Deputy Registrar (license agency) location and purchase a salvage inspection receipt. The fee is $50 plus the deputy registrar fee. This receipt is required to schedule the State Highway Patrol inspection.

Find Deputy Registrar locations at publicsafety.ohio.gov.

2. Schedule the State Highway Patrol Inspection

Use the receipt to schedule an appointment at a State Highway Patrol inspection station. Appointments can be made online via the Vehicle Inspection Gateway or by phone.

Inspection station information is available at statepatrol.ohio.gov. The Vehicle Inspection Helpline is (844) 610-0010. Be on time — late arrivals are typically rescheduled.

3. Attend the Inspection with Required Documents

Present these items to the State Highway Patrol at the scheduled inspection:

  • Purchased salvage inspection receipt
  • Original valid certificate of title

The inspection verifies the federal safety decal number, engine and transmission numbers, manufacturer or owner-applied numbers that can be traced to the original VIN, and other relevant identifiers (per OAC 4501:1-11-01).

After the inspection, the State Highway Patrol completes and issues a Salvage Inspection Form (HP106).

4. Complete and Mail Form BMV 3713

Fill out BMV 3713 completely. Include vehicle details (make, model, year, original VIN, title number), owner information, reason for replacement, and whether it is a replica motor vehicle. The form typically requires notarization.

Mail the following package to:

Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Title Support Section
P.O. Box 16520
Columbus, Ohio 43216-6520

  • Completed Application for Replacement Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a Motor Vehicle (BMV 3713)
  • Original valid certificate of title
  • Completed Salvage Inspection Form (HP106)

The original title must accompany the application.

Required Documents for BMV 3713

  • Completed and signed BMV 3713 form (notarized as required)
  • Original valid Ohio certificate of title (or lawful evidence of title from another state)
  • Completed State Highway Patrol Salvage Inspection Form (HP106)
  • Salvage inspection receipt (obtained earlier)

Additional documentation may be requested by the BMV or State Highway Patrol if needed to verify identity or ownership.

Fees Associated with Replacement VIN in Ohio

  • $50 salvage inspection receipt fee (plus deputy registrar fee) at the Deputy Registrar
  • Possible additional costs for producing the replacement VIN plate (actual cost incurred by BMV or State Highway Patrol, per OAC rules)
  • Standard title fees when the Clerk of Courts issues the new certificate of title

No separate application fee is listed on the current BMV 3713 form itself beyond the inspection and title-related costs.

What Happens After Submitting Form BMV 3713?

Once the BMV receives your package:

  1. The BMV submits the BMV 3713 application, a copy of the title, and the HP106 form to the State Highway Patrol.
  2. The BMV forwards the original certificate of title to the Clerk of Courts in the county you specified on the application.

If the application is approved, the Registrar authorizes issuance of the original VIN or assignment of a new VIN as appropriate.

How to Obtain the Replacement VIN Plate and New Title?

Replacement VIN Plate:

  • The State Highway Patrol manufactures the replacement VIN plate.
  • The plate is sent to an inspection station.
  • The State Highway Patrol contacts you to schedule an installation appointment.

New Certificate of Title:

  • After successful installation, the State Highway Patrol completes the HP106 form instructing the Clerk of Courts to issue a new title.
  • Present the completed HP106 to the Clerk of Courts in the specified county (the original title has already been forwarded by the BMV).
  • The Clerk issues a replacement title clearly marked “replacement vehicle identification number plate installed” or “replacement VIN plate installed.”

This is required under Ohio Administrative Code Rule 4501:1-11-03.

Important Tips for a Successful Application

  • Never attempt to replace or alter a VIN yourself — this is illegal and can lead to serious penalties.
  • Keep copies of all documents before mailing the originals.
  • Allow adequate processing time; manufacturer plates (if requested) can take longer (often several weeks).
  • Contact the BMV Title Support Section at (614) 752-7671 for questions about titles or the application status.
  • Use only official sources for forms and instructions to avoid outdated or unofficial versions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio BMV 3713

Is the vehicle required to be a salvage vehicle?
No. The salvage inspection process is used for VIN replacement applications even if the vehicle is not salvage-titled.

Can an out-of-state title be used?
Yes, a valid certificate of title or other lawful evidence of title issued in another state is acceptable along with the inspection evidence.

Where can I find official rules?
See Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 4501:1-11 at codes.ohio.gov.

How long does the process take?
Timelines vary depending on inspection availability, BMV processing, plate manufacturing, and title issuance. Plan for several weeks to a couple of months in many cases.

Official Resources and Downloads

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