Ohio is one of the many states in the United States that offers an enhanced driver’s license option to its residents. An enhanced driver’s license is a form of identification that can be used for entry into the United States by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries. It contains additional security features and information compared to a standard driver’s license.
In Ohio, the enhanced driver’s license is called the Ohio Secure ID. It can be obtained by residents who are U.S. citizens and provides proof of identity and citizenship. The Ohio Secure ID is compliant with the Real ID Act, which establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.
To obtain an Ohio Secure ID, residents must visit a BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles) office and provide proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of legal presence in the United States, and proof of Ohio residency. The cost of an Ohio Secure ID is higher than a standard driver’s license, but it is a convenient option for those who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
One of the main benefits of having an enhanced driver’s license is the ability to use it as a form of identification when crossing the border by land or sea. This can save travelers time and hassle, as they do not need to carry a passport for these types of trips. Additionally, the enhanced driver’s license can be used for domestic air travel within the United States, making it a versatile form of identification.
The Ohio Secure ID is designed to be more secure and tamper-resistant than a standard driver’s license. It contains security features such as a unique barcode, holographic images, and data encryption to prevent fraud and counterfeiting. The enhanced driver’s license also includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip that can be scanned for border crossing purposes.
In addition to the enhanced security features, the Ohio Secure ID also includes personal information such as the driver’s name, date of birth, address, and driver’s license number. This information is stored electronically and can be accessed by border officials when crossing the border.
Overall, the Ohio Secure ID is a convenient and secure form of identification for Ohio residents who frequently travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean. It provides proof of identity and citizenship, as well as additional security features to prevent fraud and counterfeiting. If you are a U.S. citizen living in Ohio and travel frequently to these countries, consider applying for an Ohio Secure ID to make your border crossings easier and more convenient.
