How to Get an Ohio State ID Card: A Step-by-Step Guide
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An Ohio State ID is an official form of identification for Ohio residents who don’t drive. Obtaining an Ohio state ID card is similar to obtaining a driver’s license. It’s not an overly complex process, but you may struggle with it if you’re unfamiliar with it. For an easier experience, explore how to get a state ID card in Ohio.
Eligibility Requirements for an Ohio State ID Card
As an Ohio resident, you can apply for an Ohio state ID card if you don’t have a driver’s license. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Residency: You must be a resident of Ohio.
- Identification: To obtain an ID, you must provide acceptable proof of identity, including your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number.
Essential Documents Needed for Your Ohio ID Application
You’ll need specific documents when visiting the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to obtain your state ID card from Ohio:
- Proof of identity and date of birth
- Birth certificate or consular report of birth abroad
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship
- USCIS documents
- Military ID
- Offender release identification card
- Social Security number (SSN) proof
- Social Security card
- W-2 or 1099 form reflecting your SSN
- Pay stub with full SSN
- Medicare card
- Military separation papers
- School records or transcripts
- Offender release identification card
- Proof of street address (two forms to get a TSA-compliant Ohio Real ID card)
- USCIS documents
- W-2 or 1099 form
- Pay stub
- Military separation papers
- School records or transcripts
- Credit card statement
- Financial institution statement
- Utility bill from the last 12 months
- Offender release identification card
This is not an exhaustive list of all acceptable documents. For the full list, review the Ohio BMV’s Acceptable Documents List Standard DL-ID Card or TSA-compliant card online checklist.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Ohio State ID
After meeting all the eligibility criteria and gathering the necessary documents, follow these steps to apply for your state of Ohio ID card:
- Collect your documents: Gather all the required documents.
- Get in line: Avoid a long wait at the office by getting in line online. This feature is not for making an appointment, but it secures your spot in line before you arrive at the office.
- Visit your local BMV office: It’s now time to head to the BMV so you can secure your Ohio state ID.
- Complete the application and present Your paperwork: Complete your Ohio state ID application and submit it with all required documents.
- Pay the required fee: If applicable, pay the necessary fee and get your ID card on the spot.
- Await your ID: You will receive a temporary document confirming that you ordered a state ID. Your official ID will arrive via mail within a couple of weeks.
Unlike an Ohio driver’s license, there’s no test to get your state ID, so you won’t need to study the driver's handbook from Ohio.
Understanding Ohio State ID Card Fees and Costs
An Ohio State ID is free for any adult without a driver’s license. However, someone under 16 must pay a $10 fee for a four-year ID or $19 for an eight-year ID.
Where to Apply for Your ID Card
Ohio State ID cards are issued at BMV deputy registrar license agencies. You can find many offices throughout the state, so choose one that best suits you and your schedule. You can search online to find the most convenient location.
Renewing, Replacing, and Updating Your Card
Ohio State IDs generally remain valid for four or eight years. Whether you are renewing an expired card, replacing a lost one, or updating personal details, here is what to do:
- Renewing or replacing
- Log into the OH | ID system
- Complete all required items
- Pay any applicable fees
- You can also renew your Ohio state ID or get a card replacement in person at a BMV office
- Updating
- You can change the address on your Ohio state ID online by logging into the BMV online services system and following the prompts.
- Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons must occur in person. You must provide original or certified proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or license, divorce decree, or court order.
Special Considerations: Non-Drivers, Seniors, and Minors
An Ohio State ID can be vital for many Ohio residents:
- Non-Drivers: Even if you don’t drive, you’ll need a valid identification card for many tasks, such as banking, air travel, and employment verification.
- Seniors: You may stop driving as a senior, but you still need an official ID to handle financial transactions or government-related services.
- Minors: Younger individuals — especially teenagers starting jobs or preparing for college — may need a valid photo identification for travel and other purposes.
Protect Your Ride: How Car Insurance Relates to Your Ohio ID
If you have a valid driver’s license, you are not eligible for a state ID, as the license acts as this ID.
One requirement of having a state-issued driver’s license and registering a vehicle in Ohio is having at least the state-minimum auto insurance coverage. EverQuote can help you save money on your auto insurance by allowing you to compare multiple policies online and choose the one that best suits you.