The U.S. government is introducing a new rule that will impact travelers starting May 6, 2025. Residents in Ohio and across the country need to have a Real ID to board domestic flights. Without it, you will not be allowed to pass through airport security or access certain federal buildings. This change is part of the federal Real ID Act, which was passed in 2005 following recommendations made after the 9/11 attacks.
If you haven’t yet upgraded to a Real ID, it’s time to act. Here’s everything you need to know before the deadline:
What is a Real ID?
A Real ID is a special driver’s license or state-issued ID that meets higher security standards set by the U.S. government. It has a small star in the top corner, showing that it is Real ID-compliant. Starting May 7, 2025, a regular driver’s license or state ID without the star will no longer be accepted for air travel or entry into certain federal buildings, like military bases or nuclear facilities.
What Are the Requirements to Get a Real ID in Ohio?
To get a Real ID in Ohio, you’ll need to gather several documents to prove your identity. These include:
- Full Legal Name Proof – You must show your legal name with a document like a birth certificate or a legal name change document (if applicable).
- Date of Birth Proof – A birth certificate or passport is needed to confirm your date of birth.
- Social Security Number Proof – If you’ve ever been assigned a Social Security number, you will need to provide proof.
- Legal Presence Proof – This is for people who are U.S. citizens or lawful residents. A passport, U.S. birth certificate, or immigration documents will work.
- Ohio Residency Proof – To show that you live in Ohio, you will need documents like a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.
You can find a full list of acceptable documents on the Ohio Department of Public Safety website.
How to Apply for a Real ID in Ohio
You can apply for a Real ID online through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website or visit a BMV office. If you are renewing your license, make sure to request a Real ID at the same time.
Important Notes:
- After you apply, your new ID will arrive in the mail in a plain white envelope.
- You can track your card using the U.S. Postal Service, and if it hasn’t arrived within 28 days, you should contact the BMV to check its status.
What Are the Accepted Forms of ID for Air Travel?
In addition to the Real ID, the following IDs will also be accepted for domestic flights and federal facility access:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License
- U.S. Department of Defense ID cards
- Global Entry and other trusted traveler cards
- Permanent resident cards and Border Crossing Cards
What Happens After May 6, 2025?
Starting May 7, 2025, if you do not have a Real ID, you will not be able to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. This rule applies even if you are a U.S. citizen, and there will be no exceptions for non-Real ID licenses. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a Real ID or an alternative approved ID to proceed with the airport security check.
Children under the age of 18 are not required to show ID when traveling within the U.S., but parents or guardians will still need to have Real ID or other acceptable forms of ID.
Why Was the Real ID Act Introduced?
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress to improve national security by standardizing identification cards across states. It was one of the recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission, which aimed to make it harder for terrorists to obtain fraudulent IDs.
The Real ID will ensure that everyone boarding a flight or entering a federal building has verified their identity. This helps reduce security risks at airports, government buildings, and other critical infrastructure.
How Can You Get Your Real ID Before the Deadline?
Time is running out to get your Real ID, so don’t wait until the last minute! Plan ahead, gather the required documents, and visit the BMV office or apply online. With the deadline quickly approaching, it’s important to act now so you can travel without any issues after May 6, 2025.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
