Driver License & ID Cards
Ohio Identification Card
Ohio Identification (ID) Cards are issued to Ohio residents who do not have a valid driver license.
Ohio ID cards are valid for four years or eight years and there is no minimum age for obtaining one. You must provide proof of:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (if ever assigned)
- Legal presence
- Ohio residency
Go to our Acceptable Documents page for a full list of identity documents and links to use our interactive process to assist you with what to bring to a deputy registrar agency.
- Securing an Ohio ID palm card
Temporary ID Cards
- If an unexpired driver license is suspended, a temporary ID card may be issued to provide the driver with a form of ID until the suspension is over.
- Temporary ID cards are only issued in certain cases and can be used with court-ordered driving privileges.
Where Do I Go?
- Visit any deputy registrar license agency in Ohio or renew online.
ID R Kids
There is no minimum age for an Ohio ID card. You may apply for an Ohio ID card for your child at any deputy registrar location.
- Ohio ID cards are used for identification purposes only.
- Ohio photo ID cards for children may assist police if a child is reported missing.
What do I need bring?
You must provide proof of your child’s:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (if ever assigned)
- Legal presence
- Ohio residency
Any child under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian with an Ohio driver license or ID card. If the parent or guardian does not have an Ohio driver license or ID card, then they must also provide proof of:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (if assigned)
- Legal presence
- Ohio residency
Go to our Acceptable Documents page for a full list of identity documents and links to use our interactive process to assist you with what to bring to a deputy registrar agency.
How much does an Ohio ID cost?
$10.00 (free for under 17 and permanently disabled - form BMV 5755 required)
Ohio Revised Code: 4507.50
Ohio ID Card Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for a free Ohio Identification Card?
In order to qualify for a Free Ohio Identification Card (ID):
- You must be an Ohio resident
- You must be 17 years old or older
- Ohioans who are under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or a guardian.
- You can not already hold a valid driver license. Driver License holders can, however, choose to downgrade to a State ID.
State IDs are also available for Ohioans who are 16 years and younger for a fee.
- New / Renewal costs $10.00 for a 4-year and $19.00 for an 8-year.
- Duplicate or Online Reprint costs $9.00 for a 4-year and $9.00 for an 8-year
- For permanent and irreversibly disabled Ohioans who are 16 or younger are eligible for a no fee ID (form BMV 5755 is required)
There is no minimum age for obtaining an Ohio ID card. Regardless of age, applicants must provide proof of legal name, date of birth, social security number, legal presence, and Ohio residency.
Please note: Ohio Driver Licenses are not free. Find more information on fees.
Where do I get a free Identification Card (ID)?
In-Person
Visit any BMV deputy registrar license agency in Ohio.
Don't forget to use "Get In Line Online" prior to going to a BMV location. Signing up puts you in line before heading to the agency, saving you the wait time once you get there.
Online
Many individuals who already have a valid State Identification card can renew their ID online through BMV Online Services. Replacement IDs for lost or stolen cards may also be obtained in certain circumstances through BMV Online Services.
How do I get a free Identification Card (ID)?
Ohio Identification (ID) Cards are issued to Ohio residents who do not have a valid driver license. If an individual has a driver license in a different state and applies for an Ohio ID, the driver license from that state will be canceled.
Ohio ID cards are valid for four years or eight years and there is no minimum age for obtaining one. You must provide proof of:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (if ever assigned)
- Legal presence
- Ohio residency
Go to our Acceptable Documents page for a full list of identity documents and links to use our interactive process to assist you with what to bring to a deputy registrar agency.
- Securing an Ohio ID palm card
Temporary ID Cards
- If an unexpired driver license is suspended, a temporary ID card may be issued to provide the driver with a form of ID until the suspension is over.
- Temporary ID cards are only issued in certain cases and can be used with court-ordered driving privileges.
Where Do I Go?
- Visit any deputy registrar license agency in Ohio.
What kind of documentation do I need to get an Identification Card (ID)?
Ohio ID cards are valid for four years or eight years and there is no minimum age but you must be 17 and older for a free ID. An individual can choose to apply for a Standard ID or a REAL ID compliant credential. You must provide proof of:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security number (if ever assigned)
- Legal presence
- Ohio residency
Go to our Acceptable Documents page for a full list of identity documents and links to use our interactive process to assist you with what to bring to a deputy registrar agency.
- Visit any deputy registrar license agency in Ohio.
Is an Ohio Driver License free?
No. The law only allows for an Ohio Identification Card to be issued for free.
Will I receive my ID at the Deputy Registrar?
No. Ohio mails all identification cards and driver licenses to the mailing address on record. Please be sure to review your mailing address to ensure you receive your credential. You will receive an interim document when completing an application at the deputy registrar. The interim document is also available online. You can check the status of your credential at BMV Online Services.
What will I receive after obtaining my ID at the Deputy Registrar or online?
You will receive an Ohio Interim Documentation form to use until your new card arrives in the mail. Law enforcement will be able to verify the form.
What ID do I need to be able to vote?
The Ohio BMV recommends contacting the Ohio Secretary of State's Office for any questions related to voting, including ID and voter registration requirements. Please visit here for voter ID requirement information.
My ID was lost or stolen. Can I get a free ID?
If you are an Ohio resident and 17 years of age or older, you qualify for a free replacement ID. In addition to visiting a deputy registrar, you can, depending on circumstances, obtain a replacement ID online at BMV Online Services.