Ohio Driving Laws
Updated: October, 2024
Summary of common traffic laws in Ohio – Speed limits, License Renewals, Learners Permits, Drunk Driving Laws, and more. For more information, visit the Ohio Traffic Safety Office website.
Speed Limits
In Ohio, the maximum speed limit for cars is 70 mph. The maximum highway speed for trucks is also 70 mph. These are maximum speeds. Speeds may be lower on highway passing through urban areas. Always observe posted traffic laws and drive safely for the weather and road conditions.
Learners Permits
Ohio allows new drivers to get their learners permit at the age of 15 years and 6 months. You must have your provisional license for a minimum of 6 months. Drivers can then get their intermediate license at 16. An Intermediate License allows you to drive yourself without a qualified co-pilot in the car. However, driving restrictions still apply including the time-of-day you can drive and the maximum number of passengers allowed.
In Ohio, drivers can obtain their full drivers license at the age of 18.
License Renewal
Ohio requires you to renew your license every 4 years.
View all Drivers License Renewal Info
Work Zones
The state of Ohio enforces increased penalties for speeding violations within work zones. These increased penalties are known as Work Zone Enhancements. Work Zone Enhancements can be enforced even if workers are not present as long as road work signs are posted. In Ohio, Work Zone Enhacements are:
Drunk Driving Laws
The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08%. States often enforce more strict mandatory penalties for drivers above a certain BAC. In Ohio, driving with a BAC above 0.17% will trigger automatic enhanced minimum penalties.
Texting while Driving
Cellphones and other handheld devices are banned while driving in most states. In Ohio, hand-held devices such as phones and mp3 player are banned to novice drivers only. Handheld devices bans prohibit talking on the phone without a hands-free system.
Texting while driving is banned in Ohio. Texting while driving is a primary offense, meaning that the law can only be enforced if you were pulled over for another reason such as speeding or reckless driving. In Ohio, distracted driving is listed as a category on police crash report forms.
Seat Belt Laws
Ohio requires seabelt use. Seatbelt enforcement is concidered secondary, which means you cannot be pulled over for violating a seatbelt law. The fine for a seatbelt law violation in Ohio is $30.00. Seatbelt laws very by state. Many states require passengers to wear seatbelts as well.
Data Source
Ohio Traffic Safety Office
Data Source
United States Department of Transportation
