Reentry: Identification Documents

Identification

1. Identification Cards and Driver’s Licenses
   • Ohio law generally requires certain correctional and reentry facilities to assist eligible individuals in applying for state-issued identification card or driver’s license before release. This applies to:
     • State correctional institutions operated by the Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, R.C. 5120.59,
     • Facilities under the control of the Department of Youth Services, R.C. 5139.511,
     • Community-based correctional facilities, R.C. 2301.551, and
     • Halfway house organizations, R.C. 5120.106.
   • Ohioans can choose between a federally compliant or standard driver's license or identification card. Standard cards work for most everyday identity purposes, but a federally compliant “Real ID” or another form of identification such as a passport is required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities.
   • For more information on obtaining a driver license or identification card and required documentation, consult the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Driver License & ID Cards page.
2. Birth Certificate
   • People born in Ohio may purchase certified birth certificates online, by mail, or in person. The Ohio Department of Health provides information on the process. Fees for certified records may change periodically.
3. Social Security Card
   • The United States Social Security Administration allows you to apply for new or replacement social security cards online, by mail, or in person at a Social Security Administration field office. Cards are free of charge. Instructions and applications are available through the Social Security website.

Obstacles to Voting and Restoration of Rights

The information below summarizes the voting rights of individuals upon release from incarceration and the voter-registration process.

• Misdemeanor Conviction: People convicted of misdemeanors do not lose the right to vote, even while incarcerated.
• Felony Conviction: Upon a felony conviction, an individual’s voter registration is cancelled, and they may not vote while incarcerated. Upon release, voting rights are automatically restored (R.C. 2961.01). However, an individual must re-register to vote.
• Registration Resources:
  • Restore Your Vote provides useful information for individuals with criminal convictions and their ability to vote.
  • Ohio Secretary of State Online Voter Registration — register to vote or update voter registration online.