COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Ohioans with upcoming travel plans might want to double-check their driver’s licenses before heading to the airport.

For domestic flights, the deadline for a Real ID-compliant license will arrive in weeks. According to the Department of Homeland Security, starting May 7, all U.S. air passengers will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, to clear TSA security checkpoints.

How to check if a driver’s license is Real ID-compliant

Real ID-compliant cards are typically marked with a star in the upper portion of the card, per the TSA.

REAL ID-compliant card on the left, compared with standard card on the right (Photo courtesy/ Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles)

Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles notes that both cards are valid for buying alcohol, obtaining social services, or registering to vote. However, the Homeland Security website states that only a Real ID-compliant card can be used for flights around the U.S. and access to certain federal facilities.

How to get a Real ID in Ohio

According to the Ohio BMV, obtaining a Real ID-compliant card requires more identity documents than the standard card. Drivers need to bring documents that prove their:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Proof of legal presence in the U.S.
  • Social Security number
  • Ohio street address – two documents, from sources
  • Legal name change (if applicable)

The BMV website lists acceptable documents needed to obtain a Real ID.

What is a Real ID?

Passed by Congress in 2005, the Real ID Act was a response to the September 11 terrorist attacks. The program is designed to improve U.S. travel requirements and set minimum security standards for driver’s licenses and identification cards.

All 50 U.S. states, as well as the District of Columbia and the five U.S. territories, are Real ID-compliant and are issuing Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and IDs, according to Homeland Security.

Real IDs cannot be used to cross into Mexico or Canada. Passengers will still need a passport for international travel, plus any relevant visas or other travel documents.