Ohio REAL ID Reminder: Get Yours by May 7, 2025!

🧳 What You Need to Know About REAL ID in Ohio

Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.

If your Ohio license or ID card says “Not for Federal ID”, you'll need to update it to a REAL ID-compliant version or use another accepted form of ID like a U.S. passport.

✨ How to Identify a REAL ID in Ohio

Your REAL ID will have a star symbol in the upper right-hand corner of your Ohio driver's license or ID card. This star confirms your ID complies with federal requirements.

🛂 Why You Need a REAL ID

  • Required for domestic air travel within the U.S. starting May 7, 2025

  • Required to enter certain federal buildings and secure facilities

📝 How to Get a REAL ID in Ohio

You’ll need to visit a local Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office and bring the following:

  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or valid passport)

  • Proof of legal presence in the U.S.

  • Your Social Security number

  • Proof of Ohio residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)

Tip: The Ohio BMV recommends making an appointment online to avoid long wait times.

💰 Cost of REAL ID

Ohio REAL ID cards cost the same as standard licenses:

  • $24.50 for a 4-year license

  • $48.00 for an 8-year license

❓ Who Does Not Need a REAL ID

If you do not plan to fly or access federal buildings, your current Ohio license with “Not for Federal ID” is still valid for everyday use.

🛂 Other Accepted IDs for Domestic Travel

U.S. passports and passport cards remain acceptable forms of ID for air travel and federal building access. For children traveling domestically within the U.S., they typically need either:

  • A valid government-issued photo ID (like a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID if they have one), OR

  • Their birth certificate (often accepted especially for children under 18 without an ID)

Airlines usually accept a child’s birth certificate as proof of age and identity when a photo ID isn’t available. However, it’s always a good idea for families to check with the specific airline beforehand, as policies can vary slightly.

If your clients are traveling internationally, a passport will be required for children.

📞 Contact Kelly Hunt Travel

We’re here to help design your perfect getaway and make travel truly easy!
Phone: +1 440-331-6741
Email: kelly@kellyhunttravel.com

Quick Checklist:

  • ✔️ Check for the star in the upper right corner of your Ohio license

  • ✔️ Get your REAL ID by May 7, 2025

  • ✔️ Schedule your BMV appointment in advance

  • ✔️ Prepare necessary documents before visiting the BMV

  • ✔️ Start planning your next trip with Kelly Hunt Travel today!