Ohio BMV now offering free state IDs to Ohioans 17 and older

The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has implemented statutory changes that require the BMV to offer free state IDs to Ohioans who are 17 years and older, in accordance with Ohio House Bill 458. The bill, which also requires Ohio or federally issued photo identification for in-person voting on Election Day, aims to provide eligible Ohioans with easier access to a form of identification.

To help Ohioans understand the process of obtaining a state ID, the BMV is reaching out to county board of election officials to provide information on the updated procedures. While the cost of a state ID has changed to free for eligible individuals under HB 458, the process to obtain a state ID remains the same. Individuals who are 17 or older can receive an initial issuance ID free of charge, and existing eligible ID holders will not be charged for renewing an ID or replacing a lost/stolen/mutilated card.

Ohioans can obtain a state ID by visiting one of the 179 BMV Deputy Registrar license agencies located in every county. The BMV encourages all Ohio residents to plan in advance and ensure they have the proper documentation before visiting a Deputy Registrar license agency. The documentation requirements to obtain a state ID remain unchanged, and individuals must provide proof of legal name, date of birth, social security number, legal presence, and Ohio residency. Detailed information on securing an ID, including an interactive acceptable documents list, can be found on the BMV website at bmv.ohio.gov.

In addition to in-person options, the BMV also offers online services for eligible individuals who are renewing an existing ID credential or need a replacement card. Ohioans are encouraged to take advantage of recent modernization efforts and use BMV Online Services to complete their transaction when possible. The BMV also offers a time-saving virtual queuing system, Get In Line Online, on their website.

The BMV has an existing homebound credentialing process for exceptional circumstances when an individual has a medical condition or disability and is unable to travel to a Deputy Registrar’s license agency to apply for a state ID. Homebound nursing home residents are encouraged to review the requirements for absentee voting established by the Ohio Secretary of State’s office to participate in the election process conveniently.

For inquiries or questions about the BMV and its processes, contact Miles Grilliot at mjgrilliot@dps.ohio.gov or 614-644-3942. For general public inquiries, call 614-644-6268.