From commercial air flight to entering government buildings, the way Ohioans will prove their identities is changing.
TOLEDO, Ohio — Ohioans are nearing the Real ID deadline on May 7, which will change the way Americans travel.
This comes following the Real ID Act of 2005, which was a piece of federal legislation introduced by the  9/11 Commission.
The state requires individuals to present specific documents when switching to a Real ID. These documents need to confirm your legal full name, date of birth, social security number, legal presence or citizenship, and residency in Ohio.
Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles Registrar, Charlie Norman, explained that the Real ID Act allows states to issue driver’s licenses and IDs. However, to use these credentials for federally regulated activities like commercial air travel, states must adhere to a set standard for issuing them.
According to Norman, Ohio has been issuing Real IDs for the past 7 years at no additional cost.
He said following the May 7 deadline, those that do not wish to switch their ID may be subject to additional security measures when travelling.
Norman emphasized the importance of obtaining a Real ID credential for activities such as commercial air travel, accessing federal buildings, military bases, and more. Starting on May 7, TSA will begin enforcing the requirement for a Real ID or a passport when flying. Failure to present either of these may result in additional security measures at the airport.
For the most efficient visit to the BMV, Norman recommended putting together or following a document checklist.
“You have to go in person, and plan ahead to get those documents,” he said. “The last thing that we want is for someone to show up and not have the documents they need, and then have to come back. I recommend using the online queuing tool to help you save time. We are having some expanded hours at BMV to give people some additional opportunities to get in the office.”
According to Norman, about 56% of Ohioans currently have a real ID, which matched the current national average.
With just two weeks left to make the switch, the state is encouraging people to go now, as they expect an increase of people going to the BMV.
The BMV will be extending their hours for the next two Saturdays until 3:00 p.m.
You are able to check in online to help with the wait.
