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Athens OH 45701
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Photo ID

What Can I Use for Photo ID in the U.S.?

It is best to not carry your passport while you are living in the U.S. unless you are preparing to travel or needing it for a specific documentation purpose (i.e. getting a social security card or driver's license). 

Students can get a State of Ohio issued identification card (State ID) or drivers license. Either of these cards will be valid photo identification in all states in the U.S. You cannot have both a state ID and a drivers license. 

State of Ohio Driver's License
The State of Ohio Driver's License includes a star in the upper right hand corner which allows holders to travel via airplane throughout the United States without a passport.
  • Students must present their passport, I-20 or DS-2019, I-94 and proof of residency (e.g. a copy of your bank or credit card statement).
  • The process can take 3-5 weeks. You will receive paper proof of licensure but must wait for your license to come in the U.S. Mail. 
  • Drivers with prior experience can schedule a Driving Skills test and provide appropriate documentation to obtain an Ohio Driver’s License. You will need to do this through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
    • The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) location closest to Ohio University’s Athens Campus is located at 1002 East State Street Suite 21, Athens, Ohio, 45701
  • A non-renewable/non-transferable Ohio driver license or ID card will be issued with the same expiration date as the document issued by USCIS or four years, whichever is sooner.