As part of a nationwide effort to enhance security and reduce identity fraud, the U.S. government introduced the REAL ID Act in 2005. The REAL ID Act set new requirements for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses, aiming to ensure that they meet federal security standards. Since then, each state has been rolling out REAL ID-compliant IDs, which will be required for certain activities, including boarding federally regulated commercial flights and entering federal buildings.
If you’re an Illinois resident, you might be wondering whether your state-issued ID is REAL ID-compliant. The deadline for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant ID is quickly approaching. By May 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID to board flights, access military bases, and enter certain federal facilities. If you haven’t yet upgraded your Illinois driver’s license or ID card to meet the REAL ID requirements, now is the time to get prepared. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process and explain what you need to do to get your Illinois ID REAL ID-compliant.
What is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced security standards established by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These standards include specific requirements for verifying a person’s identity and eligibility to obtain the ID. REAL IDs are marked by a star in the upper-right corner of the card, indicating that it complies with the federal regulations.
Unlike regular driver’s licenses, which can be used for state-level identification purposes, a REAL ID will be required for federal purposes, including the following:
- Boarding domestic flights: Starting in May 2025, passengers will need a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other accepted identification to board domestic flights. Without a REAL ID, you will not be able to board your flight.
- Accessing federal facilities: If you need to visit federal buildings or military bases, you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant ID for entry.
- Entering certain secure areas: Some secure facilities that require identification for entry may also mandate a REAL ID.
Is Your Illinois ID REAL ID-Compliant?
If you have an Illinois driver’s license or state-issued ID, it’s important to determine whether it is REAL ID-compliant. To do so, simply check the upper-right corner of your ID. If you see a star, it means your ID is REAL ID-compliant and will be valid for federal purposes after May 2025.
If your ID does not have the star, it is not REAL ID-compliant, and you will need to update your ID before the May 2025 deadline. Luckily, upgrading to a REAL ID in Illinois is a straightforward process. Keep reading to learn how to get your REAL ID-compliant ID.
How to Get a REAL ID in Illinois
To obtain a REAL ID in Illinois, you need to visit your local Secretary of State (SOS) office. While the process is simple, you will need to gather certain documents and provide proof of your identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States. Below are the steps you should follow to get your Illinois REAL ID.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
When applying for a REAL ID in Illinois, you will need to provide several documents to prove your identity, date of birth, legal presence, and residency. Be sure to bring original documents (not photocopies), as these will be required for verification. Here is the list of documents you will need:
- Proof of Identity and Date of Birth:
- U.S. birth certificate (original or certified copy)
- U.S. passport (current or expired within the last 5 years)
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN):
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Pay stub with your SSN listed
- A 1099 form
- Proof of Illinois Residency (Two Documents Required):
- Utility bills (water, gas, electric, etc.)
- Lease agreements
- Bank statements
- Credit card statements
- Illinois vehicle registration or title
- Proof of Legal Presence (if applicable):
- Immigration documents (e.g., visa, employment authorization card)
- U.S. military identification or military discharge papers
Be sure to carefully review the list of accepted documents on the Illinois Secretary of State website, as there may be additional options for each category.
Step 2: Visit Your Local SOS Office
Once you have gathered the necessary documents, you’ll need to visit an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility to apply for your REAL ID. Illinois residents can’t obtain a REAL ID online, so an in-person visit is mandatory. It’s highly recommended that you schedule an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times. You can schedule an appointment through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
When you arrive at the SOS office, you will need to present your documents to the clerk, who will verify your information. They may take your photograph for your new REAL ID, so be prepared for that.
Step 3: Pay the Fee
There is a fee for obtaining a REAL ID in Illinois, which varies depending on the type of ID you’re applying for (driver’s license or state ID). For a REAL ID driver’s license, the fee is typically $30 to $35, depending on your age and the length of validity. For a REAL ID state ID, the fee is around $20. Payment can usually be made by credit card, debit card, check, or cash.
Step 4: Wait for Your REAL ID
Once your application is processed, you’ll receive your new REAL ID driver’s license or ID card by mail. Processing times can vary, but most people will receive their new ID within 10 to 15 business days. Make sure to carry your current driver’s license or state ID with you while waiting for your REAL ID to arrive.
What If You Don’t Get a REAL ID?
If you do not obtain a REAL ID by the May 2025 deadline, you will still be able to use your state-issued driver’s license or ID card for non-federal purposes. However, if you plan to fly domestically, enter federal buildings, or access secure areas, you will need to use an alternative form of federally accepted identification, such as a valid U.S. passport.
If you are traveling internationally, a passport will still be required. The REAL ID is not a replacement for a passport and is not intended for international travel.
Alternatives to REAL ID
If you do not wish to obtain a REAL ID, there are alternative options for federally accepted identification. For instance, a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID can be used to board domestic flights or access federal facilities. These alternatives can be used in place of a REAL ID for federal purposes.
Final Thoughts
By May 2025, all travelers who wish to board domestic flights or access federal buildings will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. In Illinois, obtaining a REAL ID is a relatively easy process, as long as you have the proper documentation. Be sure to gather all necessary paperwork, schedule an appointment at the Secretary of State office, and pay the required fee to ensure that you’re ready for the deadline.
Don’t wait until the last minute! Start the process today to make sure your Illinois ID is REAL ID-compliant before the deadline. Stay informed about the changes, and remember that your REAL ID will be a crucial part of ensuring your access to air travel and federal buildings in the future.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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