Real ID: What fliers must do

Deadline approaches for upgrading license.

AAA is reminding Ohio residents that they have less than seven months from today to upgrade their license or photo ID cards to a Real ID or beginning Oct. 1 they will need a passport or additional documentation for domestic air travel.

AAA wants travelers to be aware of the deadline and to make the upgrade sooner rather than later to avoid the possibility of crowds and complications if left to the last minute.

The key to experiencing a smooth application process when applying for the Real ID license is understanding what additional documentation is needed to verify your identity.

To break it down to basics, what most applicants will need is:

1. Two forms of ID — their license and a second ID such as a passport or birth certificate (original or certified copy). If your name has changed, you will also need the following: marriage license, certified copy of divorce decree, or certified copy of court ordered name change.

2. Social Security Card, W2 or 1099 with full Social Security number.

3. Proof of Ohio residency in the form of two pieces of mail from different sources dated within 90 days.

Examples of documents accepted are: Federal or Ohio Income tax filing, Renter, home-owner, life or automobile insurance policy or card, credit card statement and electric bill.

What is Real ID?

The Real ID program is an extra layer of verification that stems from national security measures and increased federal identification standards resulting from the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the U.S.

It is also intended to offer residents additional protection against identity theft.

Note: international travel, including Canada and Mexico, still requires a U.S. Passport.

Though the deadline for Real ID compliance is 2020, the Ohio BMV has been offering this identity verification for customers since July 2, 2018.

The “verified” or Real ID licenses or ID cards are identifiable by a gold star in the upper right hand corner.

Do I need to obtain a Real ID?

■ Do you fly on commercial aircraft within the United States?

■ Do you need access to a federal facility or military base?

If the answer is yes, then you should consider getting a compliant card.

If you have another form of federal identification you can use for these purposes, such as a valid U.S. Passport or Passport Card, you may decide to choose the non-compliant card.

Answers to additional questions about the Real ID program and process are available online at www.bmv.ohio.gov.