2002 BMV News

Social Security Numbers No Longer Printed On Licenses Or Identification Cards

COLUMBUS, OH (January 30, 2002) – Starting tomorrow, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will no longer print Social Security numbers on driver licenses and state identification cards, unless asked to do so. Also, Ohioans who hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) will no longer be required to have their Social Security number on their license.

The move stems from the passage of House Bill 46. The law prohibits the display of a person's Social Security number on the person's driver license, CDL, temporary instruction permit or identification card unless the person requests the number be displayed.

"This is another security measure to help protect our citizens," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "Now if our residents lose their license or it's stolen, the Social Security number won't be on the license unless the person wishes for it to be."

When a resident has their license or identification card renewed or first time issuance, the Deputy Registrar license agency employee will ask the customer if they would like their Social Security number displayed.

The BMV began printing Social Security numbers on licenses in December 1967. In 1974, the Federal Privacy Act allowed the BMV to continue collecting Social Security numbers. In January of 1977, state identification cards were first issued and included Social Security numbers.

In July of 1998, legislation gave people the option to ask to have the Social Security number removed from his/her driver license or identification card. However, state law required the BMV to continue to have the Social Security number appear on a CDL.

Over 1.5 Million Ohioans Registered To Become Organ Donors Through The BMV

COLUMBUS, OH (January 24, 2002) – The number of Ohioans who have registered through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to become organ donors is on the rise. In 2001, over 1.5 million Ohioans registered to become organ donors through the BMV.

"Ohio's generosity keeps climbing," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "I am proud that BMV can be a part of giving the gift of life."

BMV customers who are either renewing or are being issued a new driver license or state identification cards are asked if he/she would like to be an organ donor. If the customer answers, "yes" the organ donor symbol appears on the person's license or identification card. The customer is also given an organ donor card to fill out and carry with him/her.

Last year, 45.6 percent of Ohioans registered to become organ donors. In both 1999 and 2000, 44 percent of Ohioans registered to become an organ donor through the BMV.

In 2001, over 3.1 million Ohioans renewed or were issued a new driver license. Also, 86,814 Ohioans renewed or were issued a new state identification card. Both driver licenses and identification cards are renewed every four years, unless the individual is under 21 years of age. The license is valid until the person turns 21.

By July 2002, the BMV along with the Ohio Department of Health will officially open the Organ Donor Registry. The registry will be housed in the BMV. The registry is designed to identify certain individuals who have specified through their license or identification card of their intentions of becoming an anatomical donor.

BMV's Online Title Inquiry Now Available

COLUMBUS, OH (January 15, 2002) – Now car and boat buyers, leasing companies, auto dealers, and financial institutions have a new tool. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has added the Online Title Inquiry to its’ web site to provide information pertaining to Ohio Titles.

The Online Title Inquiry allows Ohioans to search Ohio title records by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to determine if that particular vehicle, boat, or outboard motor carries a form of branding (such as rebuilt salvage or former police vehicle). The web site will also show the status of the title and the vehicle mileage that was recorded at the time each title was issued. There is no cost to use the web site. The web site will only produce information on Ohio titles from March 1993 to present.

"By providing this information on the Internet, we are giving Ohioans free access to title histories," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "We feel all Ohioans will find this web site helpful and easy to use. Other than a home, motor vehicles are the most significant purchase most of us will make. It is important that the BMV share this information so consumers and businesses can make informed decisions when purchasing a motor vehicle."

The information contained on the web site will not include personal information. Personal information such as individual's name, address, city, Social Security number, and date of birth are protected from disclosure by the Driver Privacy Protection Act.

The Online Title Inquiry is one of the requirements of Senate Bill 59, which was sponsored by Senator Ron Amstutz. Senate Bill 59 charged the BMV and the Ohio county clerks of courts to make improvements to Ohio’s motor vehicle titling system.

"I’m pleased to see this improved information for our customers. It provides another good example of how technology can help consumers," said Senator Amstutz. “We all look forward to additional features planned for the near future as a result of our legislation,” he concluded.

The new BMV service can be found by logging onto www.bmv.ohio.gov and then clicking on Online Title Inquiry.

BMV To Announce Online Title Inquiry

WHAT: Title Inquiry Announcement

WHEN: Tuesday, January 15, 2002, 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Governor's Cabinet Room, Ohio Statehouse

WHO: Lt. Governor Maureen O’Connor, Director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety; Sen. Ron Amstutz (R-22); Frank Caltrider, Registrar of Motor Vehicles

Senate Bill 59 required the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to make changes to the titling system. One of the services added due to SB59's implementation is the public's access to the title information.

Through the Online Title Inquiry, Ohioans can search Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) to find out if that particular vehicle has any brands (such as rebuilt salvage and former police vehicle) and the status of the title and also the vehicle's mileage. Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety will officially introduce Online Title Inquiry and also demonstrate how the new web site works. Sen. Ron Amstutz, the bill's sponsor, will also be giving remarks.

The service is free and can be found by logging onto www.bmv.ohio.gov and then clicking on Online Title Inquiry.

Please see the agenda below.

AGENDA
Title Web Site Event
Governor's Cabinet Room, Statehouse
January 15, 2002
10:30 a.m.

Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider gives opening remarks
Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety demonstrates the new site
Senator Ron Amstutz (R- 22) gives remarks
Closing Remarks

BMV To Release Request For Proposals (RFP) For Deputy Registrar Appointees

COLUMBUS, OH (January 4, 2002) – The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is preparing to release a RFP for Deputy Registrar Appointees on Monday, January 7, 2002.

The purpose of this RFP is to solicit proposals from individuals, county auditors, and nonprofit corporations that meet the criteria outlined within the RFP to serve as Deputy Registrars for the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

The BMV is responsible for licensing persons to operate motor vehicles, for the licensing (also known as the registration) of motor vehicles, and for other functions prescribed by law. The authority of the BMV is vested in the Registrar of Motor Vehicles (Registrar), who is appointed by and reports to the Director of Public Safety (Director). The Registrar appoints various assistants, deputies, and employees as he deems necessary to administer the law.

There are presently 46 license agency locations available for the January 2002 RFP process.

Proposal conferences for Deputy Registrar license agency contracts will be held beginning Monday, January 7, 2002, through Monday, January 14, 2002. The 2002 Deputy Registrar Request for Proposal (RFP) documents and supporting information will be issued at these conferences. For additional information on the RFP process, contact the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Research Section, at (614) 752-7631.

BMV Begins Issuing Vertical Driver Licenses and ID Cards Tomorrow

COLUMBUS, OH (February 28, 2002) – Starting tomorrow, under age 21 driver licenses and ID cards will have a new look. Drivers under 21 will be issued vertical driver licenses and identification cards at all 215 Bureau of Motor Vehicle (BMV) Deputy Registrar license agencies and 2 Customer Service Centers.

"Issuing vertical licenses and ID cards to individuals under age 21, is another tool to stop underage sales of alcohol and tobacco," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "We are working to preserve the safety and well being of all citizens."

The new licenses and identification cards will contain the same information as the previous horizontal licenses and ID cards. The information includes name, address, date of birth, restrictions, hair and eye color, height, weight, two photo images, a bar code and a magnetic stripe. The most significant difference will be the vertical layout of the license and identification card.

One new feature will be added to the vertical licenses and ID cards for persons under age 21. The new feature is the date the cardholder turns 18. The date will assist in determining whether an individual is old enough to purchase tobacco products. The date the cardholder turns 21 will remain on the card to assist with alcohol sales.

State Senator Doug White (R-Manchester) worked with O'Connor to insert language in the state budget bill (House Bill 94) that granted the BMV the authority to produce a vertical license in Ohio.

"It is very rare when you work on a budget that you have the opportunity to promote a good government, common sense program that doesn't cost the taxpayers additional money, but that is just what we did by giving the BMV the authority to create a vertical license for underage drivers," White said. "Shop owners and retailers make up the first line of defense against underage drinking and I am pleased that we can give them an effective tool to better identify those young people looking to buy alcohol illegally."

Ohioans under age 21, who already have a horizontal license, will not be required to convert to a vertical license. The horizontal driver licenses and identification cards will be phased out over the next five years. Ohioans under age 21 do not have to renew their license until the individual turns 21.

BMV To Announce Vertical Driver Licenses And State ID Cards

WHAT: Vertical Driver License and State Identification Card Announcement

WHEN: Thursday, February 28, 2002, 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Franklin Heights High School, Library, 1001 Demorest, Columbus, Ohio

WHO: Lt. Governor Maureen O’Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety

Sen. Doug White (R-14)

Frank Caltrider, registrar of Motor Vehicles

Ed Duvall, deputy director the Ohio Investigative Unit

Beginning March 1, 2002, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will issue vertical driver licenses and state identification cards to those Ohioans who are under 21 years old.

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, will officially introduce the vertical license and identification card to the residents of Ohio. Senator Doug White (R-14) will be giving remarks, as well as a presentation by Ohio Investigative Unit Deputy Director Ed Duvall on the consequences of purchasing and consuming alcohol underage.

The licenses and identification cards are designed to assist in determining whether an individual is old enough to purchase tobacco and alcohol products.

Please see the agenda below.

AGENDA

Vertical License and Identification Card Announcement

Franklin Heights High School

1001 Demorest, Columbus, Ohio

February 28, 2002

2:00 p.m.

Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider gives opening remarks

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, officially introduces the vertical license and identification card

Senator Doug White (R- 14) gives remarks

Deputy Director of the Ohio Investigative Unit Ed Duvall will be giving a presentation on what can happen when a teen is caught drinking or purchasing alcohol

Registrar Caltrider will give closing remarks

Interviews with participants are available upon request

Directions to Franklin Heights High School

Take West Broad Street to Hague Avenue

Turn left onto Hague Avenue

Once on Hague Avenue turn right onto Sullivant Avenue

From Sullivant Avenue, turn left onto Demorest Road

The school is located at 1001 Demorest Road

BMV Begins License Suspension For Parents Behind On Child Support

COLUMBUS, OH (February 7, 2002) – Parents now could lose their driver licenses if they do not keep up with their child support payments. In a program coordinated by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), licenses of parents who are not current or have not kept up with child support orders will be subject to suspension.

The program provides the county child support enforcement agency (CSEA) with an additional tool to encourage child support payments. In December 2001, ODJFS began providing information to the BMV regarding potential license suspension. As of January 14, 2002, a total of 260 licenses have been suspended. Eleven of the 260 have been reinstated.

"As a former Summit County Prosecutor, whose responsibility included child support cases, I am very aware of the critical needs of children in these situations," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "This is a way for the state to reach out and help those children."

Once the local child support enforcement agency determines that a parent is in default, a notice is mailed to the parent that he/she is subject to license suspension. If the individual fails to comply, the county agency can decide to request a license suspension and that information is forwarded electronically to the BMV.

When the BMV receives notification from the county, a notice of suspension is sent to the driver. The driver’s license is invalid immediately upon suspension by the BMV. All inquiries regarding the amount of child support owed by a driver should be addressed to the CSEA that administered his/her case. The BMV only has access to case numbers and where the case originated.

“This is another way for Ohio to help to end the struggle for unpaid child support,” said ODJFS Director Tom Hayes. “With expanded use of the program, it will become an effective and powerful tool in collecting child support payments.”

Suspended drivers can make arrangements through their county CSEAs, which administer the order to pay the child support, and have their licenses reinstated. Also, if the suspended driver makes a complete payment, or payment arrangements, the license may be reinstated. ODJFS must notify the BMV before a clearance letter is sent to the suspended driver. There is a $25 reinstatement fee through the BMV.

BMV's Additional IRP Locations Prove To Be A Success

COLUMBUS, OH (March 28, 2002) – The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is continuing to operate five International Registration Plan (IRP) processing centers throughout Ohio.

Four locations: Cambridge, Canton, Cincinnati and Findlay, were added last year to help alleviate lines at the main International Registration Plan processing center in Hilliard during the commercial truck registration season. IRP is a program for licensing commercial trucks, trailers and buses traveling within Ohio and at least one other IRP state or providence. Last year, 79,043 IRP transactions were processed.

"The additional locations implemented last year proved to be a huge success," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "We are continuing to offer those locations again this year and hope for the same success as last year."

IRP season runs from March though May. Applications and supporting documents must be submitted by March 30. Payments must be received by April 30. All commercial registrations expire on May 31.

This is the first renewal cycle where those with white and blue apportioned plates will have the opportunity to receive bicentennial plates. Approximately 17,000 white and blue apportioned plates need to be replaced during the renewal period, which ends May 31.

Those vehicles included in the IRP exemptions are: recreational vehicles, farm vehicles traveling less than 7,500 miles, non-commercial trucks/trailers, buses used to transport "chartered" parties, government owned vehicles, and commercial trucks/combination vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less.

BMV's Cross-County Titling Allows Ohioans To Purchase Titles Outside Vehicle Owner's County of Residence

COLUMBUS, OH (March 7, 2002) – Ohio vehicle and boat owners no longer need to go to the county in which they reside to purchase a title. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) cross-county titling system allows Ohioans to purchase a title in any of Ohio's 88 counties.

"Cross-county titling saves time," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "The burden of having to purchase a title in the county of residence has been removed, allowing auto dealers and customers to have their vehicles and boats titled anywhere in Ohio."

Prior to cross-county titling, auto dealers had to send their employees to various counties to have to perform title transactions. Dealers who obtain the title for the buyers are now able to send their employees to one location instead of the county of residence of the vehicle or boat buyer.

The BMV implemented the cross-county titling system in Franklin, Fairfield, Licking, Lucas, Madison and Pickaway counties in February as part of pilot program. Monday, March 4, the service went statewide after completion of the successful pilot program.

"Cross-county titling is a good example of technology enabling government to improve service to our citizens," said Sen. Ron Amstutz (R-Medina).

This is the second phase of Senate Bill 59, sponsored by Amstutz. The Online Title Inquiry, accessible by logging onto www.bmv.ohio.gov, was the first phase to be implemented in January.

BMV Announces Cross-County Titling System

WHAT: Cross-County Titling System Announcement

WHEN: Thursday, March 7, 2002, 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Bureau of Motor Vehicles/Ohio State Highway Patrol Booth

Columbus Auto Show

Columbus Convention Center

WHO: Lt. Governor Maureen O’Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety

Sen. Ron Amstutz (R-Medina)

Frank Caltrider, registrar of Motor Vehicles

Terri Mazur, president of the Ohio Clerk of Courts Association

Tim Doran, executive vice president of the Ohio Auto Dealers Association

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will officially announce the start of cross-county titling, which will allow titles to be purchased in any of Ohio's 88 counties. Prior to cross-county titling vehicle owners had to purchase titles in the county where they resided.

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, will officially announce the new titling system. Sen. Ron Amstutz (R-Medina), sponsor of Senate Bill 59, will be giving remarks. Terri Mazur, president of the Ohio Clerk of Courts Association and Greene County Clerk of Courts of Common Pleas, and Tim Doran, executive vice president of the Ohio Auto Dealers Association will both give comments as well.

The announcement will take place at the BMV/OSHP booth located at the Columbus Auto Show. The Auto Show is not open Thursday until 3 p.m.

Please see the agenda below for directions, parking and entrance into the show.

Agenda

Cross-County Titling System

Columbus Auto Show

Columbus Convention Center

Thursday, March 7, 2002

10:30 a.m.

Opening remarks by Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, officially introduces cross-county titling

Sen. Ron Amstutz (R-Medina)

Terri Mazur, president of the Ohio Clerk of Courts Association and Greene County Clerk of Courts of Common Pleas

Tim Doran, executive vice president Ohio Auto Dealers Association

Registrar Caltrider makes closing remarks

Interviews available upon request

Directions to the Cross-County Titling Event

Columbus Auto Show

Columbus Convention Center

Parking will be available Thursday morning in the Dock Area behind the convention center.

From High Street go East onto Goodale Street, to the North of the Convention Center

At the stop sign, take a Right

The Dock Area is the first driveway on the Right

Please enter the Convention Center through the door that says "Security," between docks eight and nine.

Someone will meet you and escort you to the BMV/OSHP booth.

BMV Sets Up Shop At Columbus Auto Show

COLUMBUS, OH (March 4, 2002) – When perusing around the Columbus Auto Show, don't forget to stop by the Ohio Department of Public Safety's display featuring the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP). The BMV is setting up an area where Ohioans can renew their license plates or driver licenses, have their vision tested, and check out their driving records through driver abstracts.

"Because we have had great success with the booth at the Ohio State Fair, we thought the Columbus Auto Show would be another place to set up an agency," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "Our employees like getting out and talking with the public, and opportunities like these are great for them to do just that."

BMV employees will staff the booth to answer questions and assist the public. Other BMV services customers can use during the auto show include, registering to vote through Motor Voter, ordering replacement stickers, plates and registrations, and updating addresses. BMV brochures will be available as well as a license plate display case to view the variations of bicentennial plates.

The OSHP display will involve the Fatal Vision Goggles to simulate visual impairment and educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving. Uniformed officers will be available to answer questions, provide educational materials, and show video segments related to DUI and Mature Driving Safety.

The booth will be located next to the classic cars exhibit. The show runs March 1-10 at the Columbus Convention Center.

Red, White and Blue Bicentennial Plates Selling Like Hotcakes

COLUMBUS, OH (April 12, 2002) – Sales of Ohio's red, white and blue bicentennial plates are soaring. As of Friday, April 5, over 3 million bicentennial plates have been sold.

"Sales of the bicentennial plates are going as well, if not better than we had expected," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "We encourage everyone to get their bicentennial plates, while they are available."

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) began issuing bicentennial plates on October 1, 2001 to commemorate Ohio's 200^th birthday, which takes place in 2003. Approximately 6.6 million license plates have been manufactured. Right now, the BMV has an estimated eight-month supply of bicentennial plates remaining.

The bicentennial license plates are replacing the white and blue license plates. So far, over 742,000 of the 2.4 million white and blue plates have been replaced.

The number of bicentennial plates issued is expected to rise over the next couple of months. All commercial truck registrations expire at the end of May. Many of the commercial trucks still have the white and blue license plates.

Of the 3 million bicentennial plates sold, over 61 percent are new plate sales or replacement plate sales. Twenty percent are optional purchases and 18 percent of those sold are mandatory replacement plates.

A majority of the bicentennial plates (over 77 percent) have been sold at Deputy Registrar license agencies. Over 22 percent of the bicentennial plates are sold either through the web site, mail in registration and also through touch-tone telephone service.

Non-Renewable/Non-Transferable Licenses To Be Issued For Those Who Can Prove Legal Presence

COLUMBUS, OH (May 15, 2002) – Beginning tomorrow, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will issue non-renewable/non-transferable licenses and identification cards to non-U.S. citizens who can prove legal presence in the United States.

Senate Bill 184 states, individuals must prove they are U.S. Citizens before the BMV will issue a license or ID card. Non-U.S. citizens, who are here legally, will receive a non-renewable/non-transferable license or ID card for the amount of time Immigration and Naturalization Service documents allow them to be in the United States, but not more than four years. Governor Bob Taft signed SB 184 into law today and it goes into effect immediately.

"Due to September 11, the push to verify legal presence in the United States has become a priority," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "This is one way the BMV can make a valuable contribution." Lt. Governor O'Connor spearheads Ohio's homeland security efforts.

If the individual will be in the U.S. for more than four years, a four-year non-renewable/non-transferable license or ID card will be issued, even if the individual is under 21-years-old. The non-renewable/non-transferable license or ID card can be replaced 90-days prior to its expiration - as long as the individual presents documents verifying their legal presence in the United States.

A non-renewable/non-transferable license allows individuals to drive in Ohio and other states, but it cannot be renewed or transferred to another state. The words "non-renewable and non-transferable" will appear on the driver license or ID card above the signature.

The BMV will implement the update in the law on Thursday, May 16, 2002.

Ohio's Donor Registry Ready To Go

WHAT: Official Ohio Donor Registry Kick Off

WHEN: Tuesday, July 2, 2002, 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Room 111, 1970 W. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio

WHO:         Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety,
                   State Senator Lynn Wachtmann (R - 1^st District),
                   J. Nick Baird, M.D., director of the Ohio Department of Health and
                   Registrar Frank Caltrider, Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles

The Ohio Donor Registry will soon be in place. The registry, which is maintained by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), will identify individuals who have agreed to make an anatomical gift when applying for an operator's license or identification card. Joining the Ohio Registry ensures that an individual's wishes be recognized and carried out. The BMV, Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Second Chance Trust Fund Advisory Committee have worked closely over the last year to get this service up and running.

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, will demonstrate how the registry operates. Senator Lynn Wachtmann (R - 1^st District), who played a key role in getting the bill through the General Assembly, will give remarks. J. Nick Baird, M.D., director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), will talk on the importance of organ, tissue, and eye donations.

The Second Chance Trust Fund Advisory Committee, an independent advisory entity at the ODH, has played a key role in getting the registry operational. Linda Jones, Chair of the Second Chance Trust Fund Advisory Committee and CEO of Lifeline of Ohio, will also be on hand to answer questions from the media.

Lifeline of Ohio will coordinate to have a local transplant recipient and a member of a donor family at the event as well. The BMV's Customer Service Center will be available for b-roll and photographs.

New Philadelphia Deputy Registrar Holds Open House At New Location

WHAT: New Philadelphia Deputy Registrar License Agency Open House

WHEN: Wednesday, June 12, 2002, 11 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

WHERE: 1260 Monroe Street NW, New Philadelphia, Ohio

The New Philadelphia Deputy Registrar License Agency has moved from its previous location on West High Street to the Monroe Center on Monroe Street NW. Customers will benefit from the agency's move. The new facility is larger and will also provide more parking for the agency's customers. Deputy Registrar Catherine Sahadi operates the New Philadelphia license agency.

The agency is holding the open house to encourage members of the community to meet the deputy and see the new larger facility.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol Driver Examination station also moved to the Monroe Center location.

Full Authority Deputy Registrars Now Open In Two Counties

COLUMBUS, OH (July 22, 2002) – A new concept brought on by Senate Bill 59 is now in place, bringing money to two counties. The clerk of courts in both Jackson and Vinton counties have accepted the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offer to become Full Authority Deputy Registrars.

"By allowing the clerk of courts in Jackson and Vinton counties to become Full Authority Deputy Registrars we have given the counties an opportunity to bring money back into the two communities," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "Fees collected in Jackson and Vinton counties will be reinvested in Jackson and Vinton counties."

The Full Authority Deputy Registrar concept was part of an agreement which would supplement clerk of courts title offices as a result of cross county titling. Counties that have a population less than 40,000 would be eligible to apply. Letters were sent to seven counties, with a population under 40,000 that were eligible this year for FADR. Contracts for the Deputy Registrar in these seven counties expired June 30, 2002, making them eligible.

The clerk of courts in Vinton and Jackson counties were the only two counties that expressed interest. Each were awarded contracts through June 30, 2005. The agencies will be able to issue and renew driver licenses, state identification cards, vehicle registrations and conduct vision screenings as well as issue titles.

A $2.75 Deputy Registrar fee is attached to the state fee, by law, after each transaction. Revenue from the Deputy Registrar fee stays with the Clerk of Courts.

Full Authority Deputy Registrars Piloted In McArthur and Jackson

WHAT: Official Opening of Full Authority Deputy Registrars in McArthur and Jackson

WHEN/WHERE: July 22, 2002

                            Vinton County Deputy Registrar License Agency
                            301 West High Street, McArthur, Ohio
                            1 p.m. - McArthur
                            July 22, 2002

                            Jackson County Deputy Registrar License Agency
                            301 Huron Street, Jackson, Ohio
                            2:15 p.m. - Jackson
                            July 22, 2002

WHO:                   Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety
                            Registrar Frank Caltrider, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles
                            In McArthur, Vinton County Clerk of Courts Lisa Gilliland
                            In Jackson, Jackson County Clerk of Courts Bob Walton

Senate Bill 59 permits clerk of courts from counties with populations of less than 40,000 to become Deputy Registrars for three years. Fees that are generated by the clerk of courts running the Deputy Registrar license agencies will be credited to the county's Title Administration Fund. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles has chosen Jackson and Vinton counties to become the Full Authority Deputy Registrar. The two will perform the same acts as other Deputy Registrar license agencies.

Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor and Registrar Frank Caltrider will join the Clerk of Courts in Vinton and Jackson counties in officially opening the Full Authority Deputy Registrar in each county.

Ohio's Donor Registry Up And Running

COLUMBUS, OH (July 2, 2002) – Nearly 3,000 Ohioans are waiting for a second chance at life. One person has the potential to save seven lives through organ donation and enhance the quality of life for more than 50 others through tissue and eye donation. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), in conjunction with the Second Chance Trust Fund Advisory Committee, have developed Ohio's Donor Registry.

The Ohio Donor Registry, which began on July 1, 2002, is a way to give legal consent for an anatomical gift upon an individual's death. Anytime an individual renews or is issued a new license or identification card, he or she is asked if they would like to become a donor. If the person answers yes, the person is automatically entered into the registry. If a person would like to wait and decide at another time, they are given donation information and a form that they can fill out and send back to the BMV.

"I am pleased that the Bureau of Motor Vehicles will play such an active role in registering Ohioans who wish to be organ, eye and/or tissue donors," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "The BMV's commitment in educating Ohio on organ donations is one reason the Ohio Legislature directed the BMV to house the registry."

"Few decisions we make in life can transform tragedy to hope and save the lives of people we will never meet," said State Senator Lynn Wachtmann (R-1^st), chairman of the Senate Health, Human Services and Aging Committee. "The decision to be an organ donor offers these possibilities and, under the new registry system in place, is our personal decision to make."

"Every two days, an Ohioan dies while waiting for a transplant," said J. Nick Baird, M.D., director of the Ohio Department of Health. "This issue can be solved, but only through the unselfish decision to become a donor. I am proud that Ohio has taken steps to address this issue by ensuring through the Ohio Donor Registry that the wishes of the donor will be met. I encourage everyone to think of the dramatic difference they as an individual can make in the lives of so many people."

Individuals who have stated their wishes to become an organ donor on their driver licenses and ID cards prior to July 1, will not be automatically entered in the registry. If the individual would like to be a part of the registry prior to their license or ID card renewal, he or she may download a form off www.bmv.ohio.gov, or they may obtain a form from his or her local Deputy Registrar location. Once the forms are completed, they are to be mailed to the BMV.

The information on the registry is confidential and access to the registry is limited to licensed and certified organ, tissue and eye procurement organizations.

Ohio's Donor Registry Ready To Go

WHAT: Official Ohio Donor Registry Kick Off

WHEN: Tuesday, July 2, 2002, 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: The Ohio Department of Public Safety, Room 111, 1970 W. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio

Citizens Advisory Call Centers Now Open

COLUMBUS, OH (August 15, 2002) – Ohio citizens now have a new committee that has been assigned exclusively to assess operations of the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Recommendations for improvements to the BMV will then be made.

The BMV Citizens Advisory Committee, a direct result of House Bill 182, has been established to examine the practices of the BMV. The nine-member committee will make recommendations directly to members of the Ohio Legislature. Rep. Kirk Schuring, the bill sponsor, has been elected as the committee chair, with Sen. Bill Harris serving as the Vice Chair.

A toll-free telephone number (1-866-238-2888) and an email address (AdviseBMV@dps.state.oh.us) have been implemented for Ohioans to address any comments, suggestions or recommendations in reference to the BMV. Ohioans who wish to discuss an individual case must continue to call 614-752-7500.

"We are looking forward to the feedback we receive from our customers, the residents of Ohio," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "It's very important for us to hear what the residents have to say."

The BMV has assigned personnel to assist with customer comments, suggestions and other recommendations. This information will be given to the committee for review and consideration. In an effort to include all Ohioans, the committee will be making visits and conducting meetings in various locations throughout the state. The next meeting has been scheduled for September 10, 2002 in the Statehouse.

During the last several years, the BMV has taken a number of steps to improve customer service, including the addition of the online vehicle registration site, OPLATES.com. Other services such as the Online Title Inquiry, the addition of several One-Stop-Shop locations and four full-service International Registration Plan (IRP) branch offices to serve the trucking industry have all been implemented with the customer in mind.

BMV CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Governor Appointments	Senate Appointments	House Appointments
Phillip Scott, Mansfield Susan Reilly, Uniontown Juan Jose Perez, Powell	Sen. Bill Harris - Vice Chair, Ashland Phillip Lattavo, Canton Charles Howard, Dublin	Rep. Kirk Shuring - Chair, Canton Sheila Doll, Cincinnati Larry Davis, Columbus

BMV Citizens Advisory Committee To Hold First Meeting

WHAT: BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting

WHEN: Tuesday, August 13, 2002, 3 p.m.

WHERE: Ohio Department of Public Safety - Director's Conference Room (fifth floor),
1970 West Broad Street, Columbus

WHO:        Members of the Citizens Advisory Committee
                 Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider
                 BMV Staff

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Citizens Advisory Committee will hold its first meeting on Tuesday. The Citizens Advisory Committee is a direct result of HB182, which was sponsored by Rep. Kirk Schuring.

The Citizens Advisory Committee is to review and evaluate the client service practices of the BMV. The committee will also advise on ways the BMV can improve its interaction with the public.

Leasing Companies Utilize Electronic Power Of Attorney; Certain Leasing Customers May Now Renew Through OPLATES.com

COLUMBUS, OH (August 2, 2002) – Now some Ohioans who lease their vehicles can renew their vehicle registration through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles' (BMV) online vehicle registration service, OPLATES.com.

Approximately 60 leasing companies and branches have given the BMV electronic power of attorney. This allows customers to renew their vehicles through the Internet, telephone, mail or even the Deputy Registrar and they will no longer need to show power of attorney.

"Through electronic power of attorney, leasing companies are allowing Ohioans to renew their vehicle registration on their time and at their convenience," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. "We are looking forward to working with more companies in the future so that all Ohioans may use the online service if they desire."

Leasing companies will have the ability to revoke a customer's electronic power of attorney. Once a customer's power of attorney is revoked, they will not be able to renew their vehicle registration through the Internet, telephone, mail or a Deputy Registrar license agency.

A list of leasing companies and branch offices that are utilizing the electronic power of attorney is attached.

OPLATES.com officially began in December 2000. Since its inception, the BMV has added address changes; special plate availability; a Spanish language version; and the ability to order replacement plates, stickers, or registrations.

Participating Leasing Companies
American Honda Finance Corp., Torrence, Calif.
Archwood Leasing Co., Akron, Ohio
Banc America, Brea, Calif.
BMV Financial Services, Dublin, Ohio
BTRAC, Brea, Calif.
C F C Investment Co., Fairfield, Ohio
Calcorp Co., Beechwood, Ohio
Calcorp Services Co., Beechwood, Ohio
Cascade Auto Group LTD., Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
CU Advantage Inc., Cincinnati
CULA, San Diego, Calif.
Dave Kehl Cheverolet Inc., Mechanicsburg, Ohio
Delaware County Bank, Lewis Center, Ohio
Duthler Leasing Inc., Kentwood, Ohio
Enterprise Leasing Co. Detroit, Farmington Hills, Mich.
Enterprise Rent A Car Co. of Cincinnati, Cincinnati
Fifth Third Auto Leasing Trust, Cincinnati - and several of their offices
First Medina Company, Wadsworth, Ohio
First Southwestern of Ohio, Hamilton, Ohio
GE Capital Auto Lease Inc., Barrington, Ill.
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, North Olmstead, Ohio
General Motors Acceptance Corporation, Columbus, Ohio
Henry Motor Car, Bellevue, Ohio
Honda Lease Trust, Torrance, Calif.
Huntington LT, Columbus, Ohio
Huntington National Bank, Columbus, Ohio
ICX Corporation, Cleveland, Ohio
Joni Auto Rentals Inc., Warwick, R.I.
Lease Plan USA Inc., Alpharetta, Ga.
Lease-Wise Inc., Brunswick, Ohio
Lexus Financial Services, Torrance, Calif.
Manor Ins. (Manor Leasing), Salem, Ohio
Medina Leasing Services, Medina, Ohio
Members Auto Lease Inc., Warrensville Heights, Ohio
Motorwerks Inc., Dayton, Ohio
National City Bank, Cleveland
National City Bank Northeast, Akron, Ohio
National City Bank of PA, Brecksville, Ohio
National City Bank Kentucky, Louisville, Ky.
National City Bank Indiana, Indianapolis
Nations Bank, Brea, Calif.
NBALI, Brea, Calif.
Netlease LTD., Warrensville Heights, Ohio
Oxford Resoures, Brea, Calif.
Richland Trust Co., Mansfield, Ohio
Roby Autogroup LLC. (Roby Mitsubishi Leasing), Dublin, Ohio
SAAB Leasing Co., Little Rock, Ark.
Second National Bank, Greenville, Ohio
Sherman & Company, Westlake, Ohio
Stephens Leasing, Chesterland, Ohio
Sunnyside Leasing, Middleburg Heights, Ohio
Toyota Lease Trust, Torrance, Calif.
Toyota Motor Credit Corp., Torrance, Calif.
Transport Corp. Inc., Medina, Ohio
Wells Fargo Fleet (or Greater Midwest Leasing), Minneapolis

BMV Sets Up License Agency At 2002 Ohio State Fair

COLUMBUS, OH (August 1, 2002) – Like the Ohio State Fair itself, which is a summer tradition in Ohio, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has become a tradition at the fair each and every year. This year, the BMV will celebrate 24 years of providing driver services at the state fair.

"BMV employees really enjoy the opportunity to work at the fair," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS). "It's a chance for the employees to interact with our customers and answer their questions. It's something everyone at the BMV looks forward to every year."

During the 17-day fair, the BMV will be issuing licenses, ID cards, vehicle registrations, selling driving abstracts, and conducting free vision screenings. A "Get Personalized" terminal will also be available for customers to look up personalized plate combinations.

During last year's fair, the BMV:

Ø       Completed 2,938 total transactions;

Ø       Issued 789 driver licenses;

Ø       Issued 54 state identification cards;

Ø       Issued 221 vehicle registrations;

Ø       Completed 170 voter registration cards;

Ø       Completed 326 driver abstracts;

Ø       Completed 1,378 vision screenings.

The fair runs from August 2-18. The BMV will be located in the ODPS booth, in the Northeast corner of the Bricker Building. The license agency will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Starting Today BMV Will Begin Forwarding Necessary Information To The Selective Service System

COLUMBUS, OH (August 1, 2002) – Beginning today, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is required to send the personal information of all males between the ages of 18 and 26 to the Selective Service System for their processing. The new requirement is the result of House Bill 46, which was passed by the Ohio General Assembly.

Effective August 1, 2002, the BMV will forward information on any person under 26 years of age who is required to register with the Selective Service System. The information required by the Selective Service System will be automatically forwarded upon the application for a temporary driving instruction permit; issuance or renewal of a driver license or commercial driver license; or state identification card.

"By complying with the new Selective Service legislative requirement, we can help the Selective Service ensure young men comply with federal law," said Lt. Governor Maureen O'Connor, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Information will also be forwarded to Selective Service anytime an endorsement is added to an existing driver license or a duplicate license or identification card is issued.

HB 46 also included the removal of a person's Social Security number on all licenses and ID cards, unless the customer wishes otherwise. The first part of HB 46 went into effect January 2002.

Click HERE to visit the Selective Service System Internet site.

Open House Planned To Officially Announce New One-Stop Shop In Wilmington

WHAT: Open House for One-Stop Shop

WHEN: Thursday, September 26, 2002, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE: 180 East Sugartree

Wilmington, OH

WHO: Clinton County Clerk of Courts Joanne Chamberlain

Wilmington Deputy Registrar Barbara Lieurance

Clinton County Clerk of Courts Joanne Chamberlain and Wilmington Deputy Registrar Barbara Lieurance will hold an open house to officially announce the new one-stop-shop on Thursday, September 26, 2002. The one-stop-shop consists of both a title office and Deputy Registrar license agency in one location. One-stop shops have been implemented in several other parts of the state to better serve the motoring public.

BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting Postponed

COLUMBUS, OH (September 23, 2002) - The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Citizens Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, 2002, has been postponed. The Communications Office will notify members of the media when a new date and time has been selected.

The BMV Citizens Advisory Committee, a direct result of House Bill 182, was established to review and evaluate the client service practices of the BMV and advise the BMV on ways to improve its interaction with the public.

The nine-member committee will make recommendations directly to members of the Ohio Legislature. Rep. Kirk Schuring, the bill sponsor, has been elected as the committee chair, with Sen. Bill Harris serving as the vice chair.

COLUMBUS, OH (September 20, 2002) – Beginning today, Ohioans who order a Bald Eagle license plate will receive the newly redesigned Bald Eagle plate, which features both our national bird and the American flag. The original plate featured only the bald eagle. Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Rep. Robert Latta (R-Wood County) and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) worked together to create the new plate design.

Last year, after the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and also on United Flight 93, Rep. Latta approached the BMV to change the design of the plates.

"The new Bald Eagle plate design brings together two prominent symbols of America: the flag and the eagle," said Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider. "We are proud to be a part of this cause."

Since September 11, 2001, interest in the Bald Eagle license plate increased. In September 2001, the BMV sold 774 Bald Eagle plates. In October 2001, the BMV sold 1,642 Bald Eagle plates. For the nine months the license plate was available for the public in 1999, 2,985 were sold. In 2000, 8,446 plates were sold. In 2001, 11,548 Bald Eagle Plates were sold.

"I am very glad to have been the original sponsor of the bald eagle license plate. Over the past several years, there have been 31,812 plates sold, with revenue of $492,900. These funds will be used for restoring and purchasing bald eagle habitat," said Rep. Bob Latta. When Ohioans purchase the Bald Eagle plate, a portion on the sales ($15) support Bald Eagle management programs, habitat restoration and acquisition. A standard issue Bald Eagle plate can be purchased for an additional $25 annually.

"Ohio's eagle population has reached record numbers, thanks in part to those who contribute to our wildlife diversity programs through the purchase of conservation license plates," said Sam Speck, director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. "The success of our Bald Eagle population is also an excellent barometer to the health of Ohio's environment."

BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting Cancelled

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Citizens Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, 2002, has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 24, 2002.

The BMV Citizens Advisory Committee, a direct result of House Bill 182, has been established to review and evaluate the client service practices of the BMV and advise the BMV on ways to improve its interaction with the public.

BMV Citizens Advisory Committee To Hold Second Meeting

WHAT: BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting

WHEN: Tuesday, September 10, 2002, 3 p.m.

WHERE: Ohio Statehouse, Hearing Room 113

WHO:         Rep. Kirk Schuring - Committee Chair
                  Sen. Bill Harris - Committee Vice Chair
                  Members of the Citizens Advisory Committee
                  Registrar of Motor Vehicles Frank Caltrider
                  BMV Staff

COLUMBUS, OH (September 4, 2002) – The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Citizens Advisory Committee will hold its second meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10. The BMV Citizens Advisory Committee, a direct result of House Bill 182, has been established to review and evaluate the client service practices of the BMV and advise the BMV on ways to improve its interaction with the public.

Open House Planned To Officially Announce New One-Stop Shop In Hardin County

WHAT: Open House for One-Stop-Shop

WHEN: Tuesday, October 29, 2002

11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., ribbon cutting at noon

WHERE: 1021 West Lima Street, Kenton, OH

WHO: Hardin County Clerk of Courts Lori Stevenson

Deputy Registrar Loretta Castle

Hardin County Clerk of Courts Lori Stevenson and Deputy Registrar Loretta Castle will hold an open house to officially announce the new one-stop-shop on Tuesday, October 29, 2002. The one-stop shop consists of both a title office and Deputy Registrar license agency in one location. One-stop shops have been implemented in several other parts of the state to better serve the motoring public.

BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting Scheduled For October 16

WHAT: The BMV Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting

WHEN: Wednesday, October 16, 2002, 2 p.m.

WHERE: Ohio Statehouse, Hearing Room 114

WHO: Members of the BMV Citizens Advisory Committee

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Citizens Advisory Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at 2 p.m. in the Ohio Statehouse.

OHIO'S NEW SCENIC RIVERS LICENSE PLATE FEATURES LEAPING SPORT FISH

Anglers and other nature lovers can display their commitment to protecting scenic waterways

COLUMBUS, OHIO (November 19, 2002) - A scenic Ohio stream, complete with leaping sport fish, provides a splashy new design for the state's Scenic Rivers License Plate, available beginning January 1 through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and local Deputy Registrars. Sales of the attractive new plate, which costs an additional $25 beyond the standard annual license fee, benefit the Ohio Scenic Rivers Protection Fund.

“Ohio’s scenic rivers are teeming with a diversity of fish and other aquatic species,” said Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Sam Speck. “This new design for our Scenic Rivers License Plate reflects that abundance, giving anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to help protect these resources while proudly displaying their love of Ohio's great outdoors.”

A set of these colorful new Scenic Rivers plates costs an additional $25 above regular vehicle registration fees at the time of purchase and with each annual renewal. The Ohio Scenic Rivers Protection Fund receives $15 from each purchase or renewal. Administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the fund helps protect and restore scenic river forest corridors, improve water quality and river habitat for endangered species, facilitate river clean-ups and the Scenic Rivers Stream Quality Monitoring Project, and promote river conservation and education.

Since the creation of Ohio’s scenic rivers license plate in 1995, more than 77,000 plates have been sold, generating $1,200,000 for the Scenic Rivers Protection Fund. The original Scenic Rivers license plate design, replaced by this newly design plate, featured the image of a heron soaring above an Ohio stream.

As with other Ohio license plates, the Scenic Rivers plates may be personalized, at additional cost, with reserved or “vanity” letter/number combinations. Further Information is available by calling the BMV toll-free hotline at 1-800-589-TAGS.

ODNR has officially designated 20 state scenic river segments in more than 29 Ohio counties. Included are portions of the Big and Little Darby Creeks, Chagrin River, Cuyahoga River, Grand River, Kokosing River, Little Beaver Creek, Little Miami River, Maumee River, Olentangy River, Sandusky River and the Stillwater River/Greenville Creek system.

Portions of the Big and Little Darby Creeks, Little Miami River and Little Beaver Creek have also been designated as National Scenic Rivers.

For Further Information Contact:

Heidi Hetzel-Evans, ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves

(614) 265-6520

-or-

Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations

(614) 265-6860

Performance Ratings of Deputy Registrars Lead to Fee Increase

COLUMBUS, OH (December 30, 2002) – Effective January 1, 2003, the Deputy Registrar fee will increase from $2.75 to $3.25. A provision of the State’s general revenue budget bill (HB 94), provided for an annual review of Deputy Registrars for the purpose of determining fees which will be paid to transact driver license and vehicle registration functions on behalf of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The fee is collected to reimburse Deputy Registrars for their expenses in performing driver and vehicle registration services on behalf of the state. Deputy Registrars and their employees are not state employees.

The 50-cent increase is the result of the Deputy Registrars receiving a statewide satisfaction rating of 90-percent or better on surveys conducted by The Ohio State University. The study focused on the delivery of services to Ohioans by the 215 Deputy Registrar agencies.

“The results of the study are encouraging and serve as confirmation that we are moving in the right direction with our customer focused approach,” BMV Registrar, Frank Caltrider said.

According to the survey, 90 percent of respondents reported a favorable opinion regarding the performance of the BMV and 93 percent indicated that the Deputy Registrar Agency they visited met or exceeded their expectations of quality customer care.

The Deputy Registrar fee is used in transactions dealing with vehicle registrations, out-of-state inspections, driver licenses, state identification cards and endorsement issuances. The fee increase will affect transactions completed through the Deputy Registrars, mail, phone and Internet.