REAL ID deadline nears: What you need to know about updating your Ohio driver's license

If you put off getting a REAL ID, now is the time to do it.

Beginning May 7, U.S. agencies will require people to present REAL IDs to get through airport security or access federal facilities, including nuclear power plants. Congress passed the law 20 years ago, but its implementation has been delayed multiple times since then.

About 55% of the 9.1 million licenses and IDs in Ohio are already REAL ID-compliant, according to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

Here's what you need to know about the new rule.

How do I get a REAL ID in Ohio?

Ohioans can visit any BMV location to update their driver's license with documents proving:

• Full legal name.

• Date of birth.

• Legal presence in the U.S.

• Social Security number.

• Ohio street address (two documents from different sources).

• Name change, if applicable.

How long does it take to get a REAL ID?

The BMV will give you a temporary ID and mail your new driver's license in a plain, white envelope.

You will receive your ID in the mail within 10 business days. If you have not received your new card after 28 days, contact Ohio BMV online or call 1-844-OHIO-BMV (1-844-644-6268) to check the status of your card.

What documents do I need to bring to the BMV?

The BMV accepts a wide range of documents for REAL ID requirements.

• Name, date of birth and residency: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, permanent resident card, naturalization certificate.

• Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2, 1099 form, pay stub.

• Ohio address: Driver's license, tax return, credit card statement, insurance policy, utility bill, Ohio concealed weapons permit, proof of home ownership.

• Name change: Marriage license, divorce decree, annulment of marriage.

You can see a full list of acceptable documents here.

Do I need a REAL ID to travel?

Ohioans who don't have a REAL ID must show a passport or other approved ID to travel domestically.

The Transportation Security Administration also accepts permanent resident cards, U.S. Department of Defense IDs, Global Entry cards and photo IDs issued by federally recognized tribal nations.

U.S. passports are still required for international travel.

What does a REAL ID look like?

REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses have a star in the top right corner. Standard licenses say "not for federal ID" in the same corner.

Haley BeMiller covers state government and politics for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: REAL ID deadline is approaching: What Ohioans need to know