Ohio has approved legislation that would change its driver’s licenses format to be REAL ID compliant. The REAL ID act is a result of 9/11 legislation and seeks to create a unified driver’s license format for all states in the US.

One of the major benefits of this upgraded ID is the ability for it to serve as a passport when traveling to Canada or Mexico by land or sea. However, many concerns have arisen about Ohio’s REAL ID’s intrusion on states rights. Individuals would not be required to get a new ID as a result of this legislation.

Other states that have REAL ID compliant licenses include New York, Michigan, Vermont, Washington, and Minnesota. The new license costs about $50.

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Update on Ohio’s REAL ID Driver’s License

The deadline to obtain Ohio’s REAL ID in the state is May 3, 2023. 4.4 million Ohio residents have already converted to the new ID. Ohio BMV Registrar Charlie Norman gives advice to Ohio residents: “”Take some time and go to our website. Plan ahead. Use our acceptable documents checklist to gather everything you need. I wouldn’t wait until May 3, 2023. If you can, go a little earlier.” Ohio’s REAL IDs require multiple elements: full legal name, date of birth, legal presence in the U.S., Social Security number and Ohio address. 

After a resident is approved for the ID, it will be mailed to them within 7 to 10 business days. To eliminate wait time at the BMV office, use the BMV’s get in line online system that holds your place in line and limits time spent in the physical BMV.