As travel restrictions begin to ease in the United States, many Americans are eager to resume flying and visit loved ones or explore new destinations. However, a common question that arises for Ohio residents is whether they can use their Ohio driver’s license to board a domestic flight.
The short answer is yes, Ohio driver’s licenses are currently accepted as a valid form of identification for domestic flights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has set certain standards for acceptable forms of identification for travelers, and an Ohio driver’s license meets those requirements.
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. These standards were designed to enhance the security of state-issued identification and help prevent identity theft and fraud.
Ohio was one of the states that worked to comply with the Real ID Act, and in 2017, the state began issuing compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. These Real ID-compliant identification cards have special security features and meet the federal government’s standards for identification.
When it comes to flying, the TSA accepts a variety of forms of identification, including driver’s licenses, state-issued identification cards, passports, and military IDs. However, some forms of identification are only accepted for certain types of flights.
For domestic flights within the United States, a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card is typically all that is needed for adults over the age of 18. Minors traveling with an adult may not need identification, but it is always a good idea to bring it just in case.
If you do not have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license, you can still use a passport or another form of acceptable identification to board a domestic flight. However, it is important to note that starting on May 3, 2023, all travelers will be required to have a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card to board a domestic flight.
In addition to the Real ID Act requirements, the TSA also has specific guidelines for acceptable forms of identification for flying. Your identification must be valid and unexpired, and it must contain your full name, date of birth, and a photo. Your identification must also match the name on your boarding pass.
If you are unsure whether your Ohio driver’s license is Real ID-compliant, you can look for a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner of the card. This star indicates that the card meets the federal government’s standards for identification.
If your Ohio driver’s license is not Real ID-compliant, you can visit your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office to upgrade to a compliant driver’s license or obtain a state-issued identification card that meets the requirements. You will need to bring certain documents, such as proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Ohio residency, to complete the process.
In summary, Ohio residents can use their Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses to board domestic flights within the United States. If your Ohio driver’s license is not Real ID-compliant, you will need to upgrade to a compliant license or obtain another form of acceptable identification before the deadline in May 2023.
As you plan your next trip and prepare to fly, make sure to check that your identification meets the TSA’s requirements and that it is up to date. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. Safe travels!
