Starting from July 15th, 2022, residents of Ohio will have yet another form of identification to add to their wallets – a driver’s license that allows them to board domestic flights within the United States. The Ohio Department of Public Safety announced this groundbreaking initiative in a bid to streamline travel processes and enhance security measures at airports across the state.
The decision comes as a result of the Real ID Act, a federal law passed by Congress in 2005 that sets standards for the issuance of identification documents, such as driver’s licenses. The Act requires all states to comply with certain security measures and verification procedures in order for their driver’s licenses to be accepted as valid forms of identification for federal purposes, including boarding domestic flights.
After years of preparation and coordination with federal authorities, Ohio has finally received approval for its driver’s licenses to be Real ID compliant. This means that Ohio residents will no longer need to present an additional form of identification, such as a passport or a passport card, when flying within the United States. Instead, their driver’s license will suffice as a secure and recognized form of identification at airport security checkpoints.
The move has been welcomed by Ohio residents, who have long awaited the convenience and efficiency that a Real ID compliant driver’s license would bring to their travels. For frequent flyers and occasional travelers alike, the new option will eliminate the need to carry multiple forms of identification and reduce the risk of losing important documents while on the go.
In a statement, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine praised the efforts of the Ohio Department of Public Safety in achieving Real ID compliance, stating that the new driver’s licenses will “make life easier for Ohio residents who rely on air travel for work, leisure, and family visits.” He also emphasized the importance of maintaining high security standards in line with federal requirements, ensuring the safety and well-being of all travelers.
To obtain a Real ID compliant driver’s license in Ohio, residents will need to provide certain documentation to verify their identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States. This may include a birth certificate or passport, a Social Security card, and two proofs of Ohio residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement. The process is designed to ensure that only eligible individuals receive the enhanced driver’s license, minimizing the risk of fraud or misuse.
For those who already hold a non-compliant driver’s license, Ohio will offer a convenient upgrade option to obtain the Real ID compliant version. This can be done through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) by scheduling an appointment at a local office or visiting a designated BMV location. The cost of upgrading to a Real ID compliant driver’s license will be the same as renewing a standard driver’s license, making it an affordable and accessible option for all Ohio residents.
In addition to the benefits for air travelers, the Real ID compliant driver’s license will also serve as a secure form of identification for other federal purposes, such as accessing federal facilities or entering military bases. This broadens the utility of the driver’s license beyond just air travel, providing a convenient and comprehensive solution for various identification needs.
Overall, the introduction of the Ohio driver’s license to fly marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance security and efficiency in travel processes. By aligning with federal Real ID standards, Ohio has positioned itself as a leader in identification technology and verification procedures, setting a new standard for other states to follow. With the new driver’s license, Ohio residents can now embark on their travels with greater ease and peace of mind, knowing that their identification is recognized and accepted wherever their journey may take them.
