Time is running out for Ohioans to upgrade to a Real ID

The big picture: A Real ID is a state-issued driver's license or identification card that meets federal security standards.

• In Ohio, compliant IDs are marked with a star in the upper right corner.

Flashback: Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005 in an attempt to bolster airport security.

• It was meant to be enforced in 2008 but has been delayed many times. It's finally going into effect this May.

Zoom in: The Ohio Department of Public Safety has issued around 5 million Real IDs since 2018.

• That means just over half of the 9.1 million active Ohio driver's licenses and ID cards are Real ID compliant.
• The Ohio BMV has issued around 137,000 Real IDs per month. All Ohioans have had the opportunity to upgrade during their regular renewal process, spokesperson Lindsey Bohrer tells us.

Zoom out: Ohio's rate of compliance is just slightly below the nation's average.

• The Department of Homeland Security estimated in January that 56 percent of all DL/IDs in circulation are Real ID-compliant.

Friction point: Real IDs are technically optional, but you'll need one to:

• Travel on a plane in the U.S. (without a valid passport or other acceptable ID).
• Visit a military base or a secure federal building like a courthouse.
• Enter nuclear power plants.

Yes, but: You don't need a Real ID to drive, vote, open a bank account or receive federal benefits.

Pro tip: TSA recommends passengers arrive earlier than normal following the May 7 deadline to "allow time for the identity verification process."

Worthy of your time: Ohio BMV's guide to Real IDs.