1. What is the Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License status in Ohio?

Ohio is in the process of Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License implementation. Ohio began issuing enhanced driver’s licenses (EDL) on August 2, 2019, and is expected to begin issuing Real ID-compliant cards in the spring of 2020. Ohio has also adopted the REAL ID Act and is in compliance with the federal requirements of the act.

2. Is Ohio compliant with the Real ID Act?

Yes, Ohio is compliant with the Real ID Act. As of July 2017, all Ohio driver’s licenses and state IDs issued by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles meet the federal requirements of the Real ID Act.

3. Does Ohio offer a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program?

Yes, Ohio offers a Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s License program. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) began offering the Real ID compliant license and ID cards in July 2020. The Ohio BMV also offers Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and ID cards, which are compliant with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and allow Ohio residents to travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries without a passport.

4. Is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License required to obtain a driver’s license in Ohio?

No, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Ohio.

5. What documentation is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio, individuals must present documentation to prove their identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful U.S. presence.

Specific documents accepted to prove identity and lawful U.S. presence include a valid unexpired passport, a passport card, a valid unexpired Permanent Resident Card (green card), an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a valid unexpired foreign passport with an I-94 form.

To prove Social Security number, individuals may present a valid Social Security card, a W-2 form, or an SSA-1099 form. To prove residency, individuals must provide two proofs of Ohio residency such as a bank statement, utility bill, mortgage document, rental agreement, or other documents that contain the individual’s name and address.

6. What are the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

In Ohio, the fees associated with obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License are the same as those for obtaining a regular driver’s license. The cost is $25.50 for a four-year license and $34.50 for an eight-year license. Additional fees may apply if you wish to add endorsements or upgrade your license.

7. How long is a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License valid for in Ohio?

Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses in Ohio are valid for four years.

8. Are there any special restrictions for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

Yes. To obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio, customers must present primary documents to prove their identity, social security number, and residence. A full list of acceptable documents can be found on the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles website. Additionally, customers must pass a vision test and provide proof of legal presence in the United States.

9. Does Ohio accept Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states?

Yes, Ohio accepts Real ID and Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from other states.

10. Can a person with a temporary visa obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

No. Only U.S. citizens can obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio.

11. Can a person use their Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License as identification for domestic air travel in Ohio?

Yes, a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License can be used as identification for domestic air travel in Ohio.

12. Are there any special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

Yes, there are special requirements for renewing a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio. Drivers must provide the following documents when renewing their license: a valid Social Security Number, proof of Ohio residency, and proof of legal status in the United States. Additionally, drivers must bring an original or certified document that proves their full legal name, date of birth, and U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the United States.

13. How can I apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

To apply for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio, you will need to visit your local Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles office in person with the necessary documents including your Social Security card, proof of Ohio residency, and proof of your identity (such as a valid driver’s license or passport). You will also need to provide payment for the required fees.

14. Does Ohio have any additional requirements for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License?

Yes. In order to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License, Ohio residents must provide additional documents such as a Social Security card, proof of Ohio residency, and proof of all legal name changes.

15. Can I use my Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Ohio?

Yes, you can use your Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License for international travel from Ohio.

16. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

Yes, Ohio requires all applicants for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License be at least 18 years of age.

17. Is a vision test required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

Yes, a vision test is required to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio.

18. Is there a waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

Yes, there is a 30 day waiting period to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio.

19. What forms of payment are accepted when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio?

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles accepts cash, checks, money orders, debit cards, and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) as forms of payment when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License.

20. Are there any special considerations when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License in Ohio for military personnel and veterans?

Yes. Ohio offers special considerations to military personnel and veterans when applying for a Real ID or Enhanced Driver’s License. These include waiving the $9.50 fee for the Enhanced Driver’s License and providing proof of a shorter residency period for those who have not been stationed in Ohio for more than one year.