Upgrade now to the tap-enabled BuckID card

June 1, 2026

What is Happening?

Ohio State is modernizing BuckID access control readers across the Columbus campus, replacing all legacy magnetic stripe readers with more secure tap technology. Most students, faculty and staff have already transitioned to the tap BuckID, but if your card still relies on a swipe, now is the time to make the switch – and it’s free for students and employees.

New cards have both a magnetic stripe and a contactless chip, so they will work in both legacy magnetic stripe readers and in the newer tap readers as they are rolled out across the Columbus campus.

The legacy BuckIDs that have only a magnetic stripe and are not tap capable will not work by the autumn 2026 semester as replacement of swipe readers across campus is already underway.

Why tap?

Contactless tap technology is faster, more secure and more accessible, providing a better experience every time you badge into a university building, print a document or use your BuckID to complete a purchase.

Do you need a new card?

Tap-enabled BuckIDs have been the standard on the Columbus campus since summer 2023, so most students and newer faculty and staff already have the tap-enabled cards. If you received your BuckID before summer of 2023 or you received your card on a statewide (regional) campus, it’s likely magnetic stripe only. The good news? Upgrading is easy and completely free for students and employees as part of this upgrade.

If you are based on a sregional campus but routinely require card access on the Columbus campus and still have a magnetic stripe only card, you can also visit the Columbus campus BuckID office in the Ohio Union at your convenience to have your card updated

How to get a free tap-enabled BuckID

Replacing your card is quick and easy -- and at no cost to current students and employees. Simply stop by the BuckID office on the third floor of the Ohio Union from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Remember to bring your current BuckID and an original government issued photo ID, and be prepared to have a new photo taken during your visit.

What if you lost or damaged your tap-enabled BuckID?

Lost or damaged tap-enabled BuckIDs will be subject to standard lost or damaged card replacement fees.

What about contractors, guests and department access cards?

Contractors, guests, and departmental access cards are not eligible for a free upgrade. Those that need continued access will incur a $5 upgrade fee, which can be funded by their company or by a university department through a purchase order. Contact BuckID to discuss your options.