📋 Montgomery County Dog License — Quick Facts (2026)
Montgomery County (Dayton Area) Dog Licensing
Montgomery County encompasses Dayton, Kettering, Huber Heights, Miamisburg, and over 30 other municipalities. Dog licensing is administered by the Montgomery County Auditor's Office with an extensive network of neighborhood agent locations — one of the broadest satellite networks in southwestern Ohio — making it convenient for residents throughout the county to buy a license without traveling to downtown Dayton.
The county uses a dedicated online system for renewals, accepting credit card payments with a small convenience fee. First-time registrations for new dogs can be done online as well. Tags are mailed directly to your address.
One point specific to Montgomery County: Animal Resource Center (ARC) of the Greater Dayton Area — the county's primary shelter partner — also sells dog licenses year-round, not just during the December–January window. This is useful if you acquire a new dog mid-year and need to license promptly under Ohio's 30-day rule.
Fee Schedule
| License Type | On-Time Fee | After Jan. 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual dog license | $15.00 | $30.00 |
| 3-year dog license | $45.00 | $60.00 |
| Permanent dog license | $150.00 | $165.00 |
| Replacement tag | $5.00 | — |
| License transfer (new owner) | $5.00 | — |
What You Need
- Rabies vaccination certificate valid through the end of the license period
- Dog's details: name, breed, sex, age, color
- Your name, address, phone number
- Payment: $15 annual; cash/check/card depending on method
Montgomery County does not offer a discount for spayed or neutered dogs. There is currently no senior or disability discount. The fee is $15 for all dogs.
How to Apply
Online — mcauditor.org
The Auditor's online system handles both new registrations and renewals. A credit card convenience fee applies. Tags mailed within 7–10 business days.
By Mail
Download the application from mcauditor.org. Mail with a check payable to Montgomery County Auditor. Include rabies certificate copy. Mail to: 451 W. Third Street, Dayton OH 45422. Postmark by January 31.
In Person — Auditor's Office and 30+ Agents
Montgomery County Auditor's Office, 451 W. Third Street, Room 250, Dayton. Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. During Dec–Jan, 30+ satellite agent locations operate throughout the county — including feed stores, vet offices, and township halls. Full list at mcauditor.org.
Year-Round — Animal Resource Center
The ARC of the Greater Dayton Area sells new dog licenses year-round, making it the best option for mid-year new dog registrations. Call ahead to confirm current hours: (937) 898-4457.
Moving to or Within Montgomery County
If you move to Montgomery County from another Ohio county, you have 30 days to transfer your existing license. Contact the Montgomery County Auditor's Office — there is typically no fee for a same-year in-state transfer. If you move from another state, Ohio law requires immediate licensing upon arrival; the 30-day grace period does not apply to out-of-state moves.
If you move within Montgomery County, update your address with the Auditor's Office so renewal notices and any found-dog contacts reach the correct address. You can do this online at mcauditor.org or by phone at (937) 225-4326.
FAQs — Montgomery County
Official Contact: Montgomery County Auditor, 451 W. Third Street, Room 250, Dayton OH 45422 · (937) 225-4326 · mcauditor.org