Within a year, Illinois residents 18 and older will be required to have a Real ID card to board planes and enter certain federal facilities.
“I strongly encourage residents who plan to fly to obtain their REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid future headaches,” Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said in a news release. “Our DMV facilities are ready to help customers obtain their new driver licenses and identification cards before the federal deadline.”
Responsible for administering the state’s permits is the Illinois Secretary of State, who said that as of May, only 23.5% of Illinois residents had the permits.
Here you will find everything you need to know about the Real ID.
When is the deadline for a Real ID?
May 7, 2025 is the deadline set by the federal government to have the license created under the REAL ID Act in 2005 – a post-September 11 security measure.
Are Real IDs required?
No, if you have a valid passport, military ID, or other federally approved ID, you do not need a Real ID to board an aircraft or enter certain federal buildings.
How do I apply for the license?
Those applying for a REAL ID must first make an appointment or walk into a Secretary of State DMV facility. On the SOS website you can see for which facilities you need an appointment.
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What do I need to apply for a Real ID?
You must provide proof of your identity, your full social security number and signature, and have two documents proving your current residence permit. A full checklist of requirements can also be found on the SOS website.
How much does a RealID cost?
The costs for a Real ID are the same as for a standard driver’s license/ID. More information can be found on the SOS website.
Who needs a REAL ID?
The Transportation Security Administration does not accept any identification other than Real ID, which means passengers who wish to board an aircraft without this ID will not be allowed. According to the US Department of Homeland Security, it is also required to enter military bases or visit nuclear power plants.
Air travel and visiting these facilities are still permitted if the person presents a valid US passport, which is consistent with the REAL ID.
Do I need a real ID to vote?
No. You do not need a real ID to vote or do any of the following:
Contact Patrick M. Keck: 312-549-9340, pkeck@gannett.com, twitter.com/@pkeckreporter.
This article originally appeared in State Journal-Register: Real ID: Everything to know before 2025 deadline in Illinois
