Ohio Bill Would Establish Online Auto Insurance Verification

Ohio lawmakers are considering legislation that would establish an online auto verification system intended to hold uninsured drivers accountable.

House Representatives Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison) and Jack Daniels (R-New Franklin) are the lead sponsors behind House Bill 678, which requires the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMW) to administer a real-time online auto insurance verification system. The bill is based off a model established by the Insurance Industry Committee on Motor Vehicle Administration.

The bill requires insurance companies to work with the Registrar by providing and updating accurate insurance information to be used by law enforcement and the BMV. Additionally, the bill requires anyone identified as uninsured to respond to the Registrar’s notice by confirming they have insurance, no longer own the vehicle, or qualify for an existing exemption.

Under the legislation, the Registrar can impose civil penalties on individuals who fail to respond or provide proof of insurance.

Approximately 18% of Ohio drivers are uninsured, according to the Insurance Research Council

“This bill simply ensures Ohio’s insurance requirement is actually enforced,” said Daniels. “As a former trucking company owner, I’ve seen the cost of uninsured drivers firsthand. H.B. 678 protects responsible Ohio drivers and businesses by bringing accountability to our roads.”.

Nineteen states have an online verification of insurance for passenger vehicles, according to a 2025 report by the Kansas Legislative Research Department.

The Ohio program would be funded, in part, by allowing the BMW to issue “Blackout” license plates for $40.

The bill received a first hearing in the Transportation Committee earlier this week.

Photo: Ohio State House, in Columbus. Source: Adobe Stock

Topics Auto Ohio