Photo ID

It is best to avoid carrying your passport with you while you are living in the U.S. unless you are preparing to travel or need it for a specific documentation purpose (i.e. getting a social security card or driver's license). For daily life, you can obtain a photo ID to carry with you.

What is a Photo ID?

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. 

Ohio Identification Card vs. Driver License

  • Ohio Identification (ID) Cards are issued to Ohio residents who do not have a valid driver license.
  • An Ohio driver license allows you to drive in Ohio and other states. 
    • Drivers with prior experience can schedule a driving skills test and provide appropriate documentation to obtain an Ohio Driver License. You can schedule your test through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website.

You can learn more about obtaining an Ohio ID or driver license on the Non-U.S. Citizens webpage on the BMV website.

  • Athens Bureau of Motor Vehicles

    To obtain an Ohio photo ID or driver license, you will need to visit the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The BMV location closest to Ohio University’s Athens Campus is located at 1002 East State Street Suite 21, Athens, Ohio, 45701.

    To find other locations, visit the BMV website.

    Locate a BMV Office

Required Documentation

To ensure that your visit to the BMV goes smoothly, make sure you take all required documentation. This includes:

  • A valid passport
  • I-20 or DS-2019 
  • I-94
  • Proof of residency (e.g. a copy of your bank or credit card statement)

Learn more about acceptable documents by reviewing the full list of identity documents on the Ohio BMV website.

Acceptable Documents

Helpful Information

  • The process of obtaining an Ohio ID or driver license can take 3-5 weeks. You will receive paper proof of licensure at the BMV but your official license will be sent to you by U.S. Mail.
  • 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.
  • There are fees associated with obtaining a photo id or driver license. Make sure you are prepared to pay the necessary fees when you visit the BMV.