Ohio ‘Party Plates’

What Are ‘Party Plates’?

Your Cadiz OVI lawyer will be quick to remind you that Ohio requires certain drivers granted limited driving privileges after an OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) charge to replace their standard license plates with special yellow OVI plates. Known informally as “party plates,” these plates are bright yellow with red lettering and are officially called “restricted license plates.”

If you are required to use these restricted plates, you’ll need to cover the cost and install them yourself. For some cases, the use of restricted plates may be optional, but in others, including repeat OVI charges, they are mandatory.

Key Details About Party Plates:

• Applicability: Regardless of whose name the car is registered under, you must install party plates on any vehicle you drive during your limited driving privilege period. The exception is for work vehicles, where your employer must be made aware of your restricted driving status.
• Duration: These plates stay on your vehicle for the entirety of your limited driving period, which could last months or even years, depending on your charges.
• Workplace Considerations: Other drivers may recognize the plates, potentially causing embarrassment or workplace stigma, as colleagues and even your employer might find out about your OVI conviction.

When Are Party Plates Mandated?

There are specific scenarios where restricted license plates are required, and others where their issuance may be optional:

• 1st Offense OVI: Plates are optional.
• 1st Offense with high BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration): Mandatory.
• 2nd Offense in a ten-year period: Mandatory.
• 4th Offense in a twenty-year period: Mandatory.

If party plates are required as part of your limited driving privileges, you’ll need to complete an application—referred to as the “Application for Registration of a Motor Vehicle with Restricted Plates.” This application must be approved by a judge, magistrate, or another court official. Once approved, bring it to your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office in Harrison County, where you’ll turn in your existing plates and purchase the restricted yellow plates. Note that without the restricted plates on your vehicle, any limited driving privileges granted will be invalid.

How Can I Avoid Having Party Plates?

The idea of driving with bright yellow and red plates is a nightmare for many. Aside from the humiliation, these plates can draw unwanted attention, both from neighbors and law enforcement. They loudly announce your OVI conviction to the public, potentially jeopardizing your professional reputation or even putting your job at risk if your employer gets wind of it.

If you’d like to avoid party plates, your best option is to contest the OVI charge and plead not guilty. However, this is not something you should attempt without legal expertise. OVI laws in Ohio are complex and frequently updated, encompassing everything from roadblocks and field sobriety tests to legal proceedings. Only an experienced Cadiz criminal lawyer with specialized training in OVI defense will have the knowledge and skills to effectively fight your case and secure the best outcome.

Why Work with the Youngstown Criminal Law Group?

At Youngstown Criminal Law Group, our Cadiz traffic ticket lawyers have been helping individuals in Harrison County fight OVI convictions for decades. Attorney Sean Logue, a seasoned Cadiz criminal lawyer, is known for his aggressive, dedicated, and informed defense in all OVI-related matters. He’ll help you build a strong case, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Sean is available around the clock to discuss your case and offers flexible payment plans with a flat fee structure. Don’t face these charges alone—consult with a qualified professional to explore your options.

The History of Party Plates in Ohio

While party plates have been in use since 1967, their mandatory use only began in 2004 following changes in state legislation.

Driving with these distinct plates can be highly stressful and anxiety-inducing. Law enforcement may scrutinize your car more closely, your personal relationships can suffer, and your professional life may be impacted. For many drivers, the social and psychological consequences of these plates can feel worse than the license suspension itself.

How to Take Action Now

If you’re facing limited driving privileges and want to avoid the requirement for restricted plates—or if you want to fight your OVI charge altogether—reach out to (330) 992-3036 an experienced Cadiz OVI lawyer from the Youngstown Criminal Law Group today. By working with a skilled person , you can take control of your case and work toward a better resolution.

Want to learn more about OVI laws and restricted license plates? Check out the Ohio Revised Code, Title 45, Chapter 4511.19 for detailed information, or contact us directly for personalized guidance.