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Ohio Driver License Air Travel Requirements

With the holidays upon us, many Ohio residents will be traveling in the weeks ahead and most aren’t aware that this holiday season is the last one that the traditional Ohio driver’s license can be used to pass through airport security. 

Beginning October 1, 2020, Ohio will be one of 41 states introducing a new driver’s license and state identification card that is compliant with federal regulations and ensures better security and identification protection for U.S. residents. The compliant identification card has a star in the upper right-hand corner and will be necessary to clear airport security or enter a federal building, including military bases. An Ohio driver’s license issued prior to July 2, 2018 may not be federally compliant, and thus, will not be accepted by the Transportation Safety Administration or security checkpoints at federal buildings. It should be noted that a valid U.S. passport will remain a federally compliant means of accessing flights and federal buildings after the October 1, 2020 effective date.

How to Get A Compliant ID Card in Ohio

In order to be granted the federally compliant ID, you will now have to bring several documents with you to the BMV so that your identity can be verified.  You will need all of the following:

  1. Birth certificate or US Passport/Passport card, and
  2. Social Security Card or most recent W-2 or 1099 showing your social security number, and
  3. Two proofs of Ohio address (bank statement, utility bill, credit card statement), and
  4. Marriage license or divorce decree to show any legal name changes.

Further, you will no longer be given the new identification card at the BMV. Your new card will come to you in the mail. The BMV will issue you a temporary card until your compliant card arrives. For those who do not have a need for a federally compliant card, there is still the option to receive a standard driver’s license or identification card. The standard ID card does not require the additional documentation outlined above.  

It is important to note that the new identification will also be necessary to enter federal buildings. Offices such as the IRS, Social Security, Veteran’s Administration, Department of Labor, and US District Courts are located in federal buildings.  

All identification cards continue to be valid for 4 years and require a new photograph with every renewal. You also will continue to need a passport to travel outside the United States.

Do not be turned away for failure to have the proper identification. Plan to get the new star card or have your U.S. Passport with you.

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