Since May 7, 2025, the Ohio Real ID law has been fully in effect. If you’re an Ohio resident 18 or older and plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card—or another federally accepted form of identification, such as a valid passport. If you have not upgraded yet, don’t worry, but your wait window is over. The following is what you need to know about eligibility, documents, the application process, and what you do if you still need to get your real ID in Ohio.
Eligibility requirements for the Ohio Real ID
You need to qualify as an Ohio Real ID holder by:
- Being a resident of Ohio
- Being lawfully present in the United States
- Have or be qualified to receive an Ohio driver’s license or state ID card
- Be able to produce proof of identity, Social Security Number, and residency in Ohio
- Have no active suspensions or legal complaints on your driving record
Minors who are under the age of 18 years old do not need to get a REAL ID, but can apply with parental consent and required documents.
Documents required to get the Ohio Real ID
You will be asked to present original or certified documents—photocopies and scans will not be accepted. It’s also useful for banking, notarizing documents, and other official purposes. All documents should be in your legal name and current status.
Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate)
Present one of the following:
- Unexpired valid U.S. passport or passport card
- Certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- Valid Permanent Resident Card or employment authorization document
If your name has been changed, legal name change documents, like a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order, will be required.
Proof of Social Security Number
Show one of the following:
- Original Social Security card
- W-2 form bearing your full Social Security Number
- Current pay stub with your full SSN
If you are not qualified for a Social Security Number, you will need to submit a letter from the Social Security Administration and a document from the Department of Homeland Security verifying your legal status.
Two proofs of Ohio residency
You’ll need to present two separate documents that include your name and current Ohio address. Some examples of acceptable documents include:
- Recent utility bills (electricity, water, gas, etc.)
- Lease agreement or mortgage statement
- Ohio vehicle registration
- Bank or credit card statement
- Government mail from a federal, state, or local entity
Documents need to be no older than 60 days. If you reside with someone and do not have documents in your name, an affidavit of residency and supporting documentation from the person you reside with will be required.
Application process: How to get the Ohio Real ID
Although the federal deadline has elapsed, it is still possible to apply for your Ohio Real ID through the following process:
Step 1: Fill out the application form
Begin by filling out the application for REAL ID online via the Ohio BMV website or a deputy registrar license agency. The application will request your details and the kind of card you are seeking.
Step 2: Get all the necessary documents
Gather all original or certified documents necessary to document your identity, Social Security Number, and Ohio residency. Keep documents current and reflective of your legal name.
Step 3: Go to an Ohio BMV deputy registrar’s office
You will need to apply in a deputy registrar license agency. Bring your completed application and all the documents. Appointments are not necessary, but they can help minimize wait times when applying.
Step 4: Pay the fee
The price of an Ohio real ID is the same as that of a standard ID or license, without surcharge. A four-year driver’s license, as of 2025, is $25.75, and an ID card is $10.50. Prices vary based on type and duration.
Step 5: Receive your temporary document and wait for your card
After your application has been processed, you will receive a paper temporary license or ID to use while awaiting the processing of your card. You will have your official Ohio real ID card mailed out to you within 10 business days. If you do not receive the card within 10 business days, call the BMV for help.
Cost and time to obtain the Ohio Real ID
Ohio’s REAL ID deadline is May 7, 2025. By this date, federal buildings and domestic flights will only allow REAL ID-compliant cards or other approved identification (such as a passport). If you wait until late to apply, there is no fee, but you can’t use a non-compliant card for federal purposes. The fee is the same as a regular renewal or replacement. Be sure to check the Ohio BMV website for the latest information.
If you haven’t upgraded to a REAL ID yet, you can still use your regular Ohio license for driving and state identification purposes, but cannot use it to get on domestic flights or enter secure federal buildings. Your best bet is to get your documents together and visit a BMV office soon. There isn’t a penalty for lacking a REAL ID, but you can be refused some services and activities of travel without one.
Mistakes to be avoided:
- Creating photocopies rather than original or certified papers
- Failing to take two separate proofs of residency from Ohio with you
- Name mismatches (bring all corresponding name change documents along)
- Failure to review the BMV’s online checklist prior
A REAL ID-compliant license or ID is more than just a travel requirement. It’s a secure, federally recognized form of identification that makes airport security and federal building access easier. It’s also useful for banking, notarizing documents, and other official purposes. Upgrading now means you’re prepared for future changes in federal regulations and can travel with peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ohio Real ID
- Can I obtain an Ohio real ID online? No, initial REAL ID applications need to be done in person at a BMV branch. There are online renewals if you already have a REAL ID-compliant card.
- How do I know if my license is REAL ID-compliant? Check for the star in the top right-hand corner of your card. If you have one, your license is REAL ID-compliant.
- What if I don’t have an Ohio Real ID? You may continue to use your regular Ohio license for driving and state ID, but not for federal purposes such as boarding domestic flights.
- Can non-citizens get an Ohio Real ID? Yes, legal permanent residents and certain other eligible non-citizens can, but with additional proof of their status.
- How long does it take to get my card? Most cards arrive by mail within 10 business days. You’ll get a temporary paper ID to use in the meantime.
The Ohio Real ID is now mandated for most domestic travel and federal building admittance. If you have not upgraded yet, don’t worry, but your wait window is over. It’s simple if you prepare your documents and work your way through the steps listed above. Don’t wait for the next trip—get your Ohio real ID today and stay in compliance with federal law. For more information and to start your application, visit the official Ohio Real ID page.
