Top Why Get an ID Card?

Those without a driver's license still often need to prove their identity. Some have the dubious misfortune of being mistaken for an attractive actor or actress (don't you hate that?). Most of the time, however, it's a more mundane issue―being able to cash checks, fly on a plane, buy alcohol and cigarettes, see certain movies, use a credit card, check into a hotel, or enter a nightclub.

In either case, for those who don't have a driver's license, a state identification card might be a good way to go.

First, here are a few basic facts about Ohio identification cards. To begin with, you can't have both an Ohio driver license and an ID card at the same time. Also, there's no minimum age to apply for one. The cards are valid for four years and will expire on your birthday. And, obviously, having an ID card doesn't mean that you're allowed to drive.

However, the ID card is the same shape and size as a driver license, and it is digitized. If you're over 21, the header on the card will be in green with the picture on the right. If you're under 21, the card will have a red header, and the picture will be on the left.

Top Getting an ID Card

So how do you get one? Just bring $8.50 to a deputy registrar's office along with a primary and secondary (yes, you'll need both) form of ID.

Examples of primary forms of ID include birth certificates, military ID cards, valid passports, state ID cards (from other states, that is), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services documents.

Secondary forms of identification include Social Security cards, credit cards, marriage certificates, health insurance cards, employee identification cards, school records and transcripts, human services cards, and medical treatment records from a doctor or hospital.

Keep in mind that the primary document must provide both proof of name and date of birth. If you have a Social Security number, it must be shown on at least one of the documents. Also, the documents must be originals―not copies―unless the copy has an original certification by the issuing authority.

The name on the documents must match the current name unless a change of name has been established by a court order, marriage certificate or license, or divorce decree.

Top Renewing an ID Card

Ohio ID cards are issued for a period of four years, expiring on your birthday. Currently, the only option for ID card renewal in Ohio is a visit to your local Department of Public Safety Deputy Registrar's Office to begin the process. The renewal fee for an ID card is $8.50.

Top Replacing an ID Card

Visit any deputy registrar's office with proof of name, date of birth and Social Security number. Cost: $7.50.

Top Next of Kin Notification

The BMV now allows state ID holders to register their emergency contact information with the agency. By doing so, you enable law enforcement officials to more quickly notify a family member, guardian, or friend if you're seriously injured in an accident, or are unable to communicate. Register for this service online or at any license agency location.

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