Domestic air travel will change for U.S. residents on May 7, 2025 when federal enforcement of REAL ID begins. Travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID) to board a domestic commercial flight.
REAL ID is optional in Ohio and now residents who want a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or photo ID card can once again apply for one ahead of the May 2025 federal enforcement date.
“AAA urges people who plan to travel domestically by plane to take advantage of the opportunity to get their REAL ID identification sooner rather than later,” said Kara Hitchens, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA. “Travelers interested in obtaining a REAL ID should begin the application process ahead of time to ensure they do not experience any travel delays or postponements. A REAL ID or valid passport, will be required for all domestic flights beginning on May 7.”
AAA urges Ohioans to learn more about REAL ID before air travelers are required to have a REAL ID or valid passport in order to board a domestic flight beginning May 7, 2025.
What is REAL ID?
The REAL ID Act is a federal law that affects how states issue driver’s licenses and photo ID cards if they’re going to be used for certain federal purposes, such as boarding a domestic commercial flight, access to military installations or entering a secure federal building that requires federally acceptable ID at the door.
- A REAL ID-compliant product will be marked with a gold star.
- REAL ID products are produced using the same security features as standard-issued products.
- After March 2019, standard-issue, non-REAL ID driver’s licenses and ID cards will also look different. Per federal REAL ID regulations, non-REAL IDs must be clearly labeled with the words “NOT FOR REAL ID PURPOSES.”
Do You Have to Get a REAL ID?
REAL ID is not required for Ohio residents. If you do not get a REAL ID, you must have an alternate form of federally-acceptable identification (valid passport, military ID, etc.) to board domestic commercial flights, access military installations, and enter certain federal facilities that require federally acceptable ID after May 7, 2025.
It is NOT necessary to have a REAL ID to:
- Drive
- Vote
- Apply for or receive federal benefits for which you are entitled (Veterans’ Affairs, Social Security Administration, etc.)
- Visit the post office
- Access hospitals
- Access Federal Courts, testify in federal court, etc.
What is the process to apply for a REAL ID?
The first step in the process to receiving a REAL ID is verification. Visit any deputy registrar license agency and provided the required documents.
Applicants need to bring the following documents:
- An original or certified copy of a birth certificate filed with the State Office of Vital Records/Statistics with a raised/embossed seal OR a valid U.S. passport
- Social security card (can be laminated or unlaminated) in current legal name
- Proof of legal name changes such as a certified marriage certificate or court order
- Utility bill with proof of address dated within the last six months.
For more info on required documents, visit Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
