Ohio Introduces Enhanced Driver’s Licenses for Added Security and Convenience
In a move to enhance security and convenience for its residents, Ohio has introduced enhanced driver’s licenses. These new licenses are designed to provide additional layers of identity verification, making it easier for individuals to prove their identity and citizenship. The enhanced driver’s licenses are compliant with the Real ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
The enhanced driver’s licenses contain embedded RFID (radio-frequency identification) chips that store personal information such as name, date of birth, address, and a unique identification number. This technology allows for faster and more efficient identity verification at border crossings and other security checkpoints. The RFID chips are encrypted to protect the privacy and security of the information stored on them.
Ohio residents can apply for an enhanced driver’s license at any Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office. The application process is similar to that of a regular driver’s license, but applicants will need to provide additional documentation to verify their identity and citizenship. This may include a birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of residency.
Once the application is approved, residents will receive their enhanced driver’s license in the mail within two to three weeks. The cost of an enhanced driver’s license is $78, which is slightly higher than a regular driver’s license. However, the added security and convenience of the enhanced driver’s license make it a worthwhile investment for many Ohio residents.
One of the main benefits of the enhanced driver’s license is its use as a secure form of identification for domestic air travel. Starting in October 2020, all U.S. residents will need a Real ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. The enhanced driver’s license meets the requirements of the Real ID Act, making it an ideal option for Ohio residents who frequently travel by air.
In addition to air travel, the enhanced driver’s license can also be used as a form of identification at federal facilities and military bases. This added convenience eliminates the need for residents to carry around multiple forms of identification for different purposes.
Ohio joins a growing number of states that have introduced enhanced driver’s licenses in response to the Real ID Act. These licenses provide an added layer of security and convenience for residents, making it easier to prove their identity and citizenship in a variety of situations. The introduction of enhanced driver’s licenses in Ohio is a positive step towards enhancing security and streamlining identification processes for its residents.
