After pulling steering column off, there is a lock ring with split that is stopping me from removing metal plate that I have to remove to get to the ignition. Is there a certain tool that I have to have to remove that. Tried a screw driver but it won't work.

A good set of snap ring pliers should do the trick

after pulling steering column off, there is a lock ring with split that is stopping me from removing metal plate that i have to remove to get to the ignition. is there a certain tool that i have to have to remove that. tried a screw driver but it wont work.
Before that ring can be removed, that notched plate (called the lock plate) needs to be pushed down and held. There is a very strong spring underneath that holds it against that ring you want to remove.
There is a special tool that compresses that spring and holds the lock plate down so you can access that ring and remove it. For removing that ring, an awl or other suitable tool will get under it and walk it off with a small standard screwdriver.

DO NOT distort that ring. It is critical for retaining that lock plate.

The capn is correct, use the special tool to remove and more importantly you will have to use the tool to reinstall the ring. The use of the tool is very simple, and trying to do so without the tool equals severe hand cramps, and skinned up hands.