Ohio Department of Public Safety About ODPS

The Administration Division makes it possible for all other Divisions within Public Safety to operate smoothly. Some areas under Administration include Information Technology, Human Resources and Fiscal Services.

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, which oversees driver and motor vehicle licensing and registration, continues to make services more convenient, efficient and cost-effective. A good example of BMV’s strong commitment to improving customer service is the creation of OPLATES.com – a website that hundreds of thousands of Ohioans use each year to renew their vehicle registrations and perform other business transactions with the BMV.

The primary mission of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency is to coordinate activities to mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters, both natural and man-made. This mission is carried out by closely interfacing with local, state and federal agencies in an effort to bring resources of recovery and support to Ohioans impacted by the disaster. Ohio EMA agency activities, in addition to disaster response and recovery include: education, training, planning, preparedness, strengthening Ohio's first responder capabilities and improving communication across the state.

In case of a sudden medical emergency – like a heart attack or stroke – Emergency Medical Services ensures that you or a loved one will receive the highest quality of care. EMS oversees the certification of emergency medical technicians and firefighters and provides that these people in lifesaving roles are properly trained, educated and prepared for emergency situations.

Through its research, technology, grants administration and programmatic initiatives, the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services serves agencies and communities committed to reducing and preventing crime across Ohio. OCJS administers over $30 million in state and federal criminal justice funding every year. OCJS identifies justice issues, evaluates programs and develops technology, training and products for criminal justice professionals and communities. OCJS also helps save lives and reduce injuries on Ohio's roads through leadership and partnering efforts with others interested in traffic safety, utilizing the most innovative and efficient methods possible of managing state and federal resources.

Protecting Ohioans from potential acts of terrorism is central to Public Safety’s mission. Homeland Security was established as a new division within Public Safety in September 2003 to strengthen Ohio’s commitment to addressing the new threats and challenges of terrorism in wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Keeping alcohol and cigarettes out of the hands of young Ohioans is a main focus of the Ohio Investigative Unit. Through its enforcement and educational efforts, agents have helped reduce the problem of underage drinking. Agents also investigate food stamp fraud and gambling violations. The OIU also oversees the licensing and regulation of private investigators and security guards.

Keeping Ohioans as safe as possible on state routes and highways is the responsibility of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The Patrol, established in 1933, strives to save lives and prevent injuries on roadways and has made great progress in this area as traffic fatalities have been decreasing from year to year. The Patrol also offers statewide emergency response services, investigates criminal activities on state-owned property, and provides security for the Governor and other dignitaries.