Vehicle Titles

Title-Related Processes

Liens on a Title

How to remove a lienholder from a title certificate?

When you pay off a vehicle loan, the lender will either release the lien manually by marking that the lien was discharged on the front of the title and send you the title showing the lien as satisfied or electronically release the lien if your lender participates in Ohio's Electronic Lien and Title Program.

Releasing the Lien Electronically

If your lender participates in Ohio's Electronic Lien and Title Program, it will electronically release the lien and BMV records will no longer show a lien on the vehicle. You will need to apply for a paper title with the County Clerk of Courts Title Office and pay a title fee. When all requirements are satisfied, you will be issued a new (paper) title.

Releasing the Lien Manually

If your lender does not participate in Ohio's Electronic Lien program, the lender will mark that the lien was discharged and mail the paper title to you. However, you must remove the lien from BMV records by bringing the title to any County Clerk of Courts Title Office and apply for a title (click HERE for current fee). The County Clerk of Courts Title Office will issue you a new (paper) title.