How to Prepare Documents for an Ohio BMV Real ID – Guide for U.S. Citizens, Green Card Holders, and Visa Holders

Are you applying for a Real ID in Ohio?To obtain a Real ID from the Ohio BMV, you must provide documents that verify your Full Legal Name, Date of Birth, Legal Presence in the U.S., Social Security Number (SSN), and Proof of Ohio Address.Here’s a detailed guide based on your immigration status:

📑 Documents Needed for Everyone:

• Proof of Full Legal Name

• Proof of Date of Birth

• Proof of Legal Presence in the United States

• Proof of Social Security Number (SSN)

• Proof of Ohio Residential Address

🛂 For U.S. Citizens:

You can provide the following documents:

• Valid U.S. Passport (proves Full Legal Name, Date of Birth, and Legal Presence)

• Original SSN Card

• Proof of Address:

  • Recent paystub, W-2, or 1099 tax form showing your name and Ohio address.

🛂 For Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents):

You can provide the following documents:

• Valid Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) (proves Full Legal Name, Date of Birth, and Legal Presence)

• Original SSN Card

• Proof of Address:

  • Recent paystub, W-2, or 1099 tax form with your Ohio address.

🛂 For H-1B Visa Holders and Other Temporary Visa Holders:

You must bring the following:

• Valid Foreign Passport

• Current I-797 Approval Notice (OR valid visa stamp in passport)

• I-94 Record (electronic copy printed from CBP website, if visa is expired)

• EAD Card (if available, optional in some cases)

• Original SSN Card

• Proof of Address:

  • Recent paystub, W-2, or 1099 tax form with your Ohio address.

📍 Final Tips:

• Acceptable documents - only originals.

• Names must match exactly across all documents (first name, middle initial, last name).

• Bring two proofs of address if your paystub, W2, or 1099 does not show a current address.

• Visit the Ohio BMV Real ID website for the latest checklist.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is based on personal knowledge and experience. It does not constitute legal advice or official guidance. Real ID requirements may change over time. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, please refer to the official Ohio BMV website or consult directly with the BMV.