The standard Illinois driver’s license won’t be enough identification to board a domestic flight next year.
That’s just one of the things you won’t be able to do without a REAL ID after May 7, 2025, but Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias expects it to be the most important one.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID system is the result of an act passed by Congress in 2005. The legislation formed in response to a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission that the federal government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses and identification cards.”
The Secretary of State’s office hosted a “pop-up” event offering REAL ID registration appointments at the Peoria International Airport Tuesday and plans to host more periodically through the May deadline.
“We’ll keep coming back, and again, we are really trying to bring awareness,” Giannoulias said. “We do not want people to get stuck at the airport in May and not be able to board their flight.”
In addition to flying domestically, those without a REAL ID won’t be able to visit military bases or secure federal facilities, like nuclear power plants.
Giannoulias says his office has been aggressively raising awareness of the upcoming deadline since he was elected to the position in 2022. He says, just under six months out, less than 50% of Illinois residents have received a REAL ID.
You can tell if your current Illinois drivers’ license or identification card is already REAL ID compliant by checking for a gold star in the upper right corner of the card. You may also remember a lengthier, more in-depth process at the Driver Services Facility last time you went for a renewal.
Applying for a REAL ID requires several different documents beyond the regular drivers license renewal including: proof of identity, proof of a full social security number, two documents with your current residence and name on them and proof of signature.
Examples of what kinds of documents fulfill these requirements are available on the Illinois Secretary of State’s site.
Giannoulias recommends applying for a REAL ID at least 60 days before any flight that leaves after May 7, 2025.
“You should note that TSA will not accept the temporary paper REAL ID issued during the visit to a DMV,” he said. “So we’re screaming from the rooftops to try and prepare people so that they don’t get to the airport and realize they can’t get on a flight.”
Giannoulias says unhoused Illinoisans will also be able to get a REAL ID, though the process requires some different documentation. The applicant needs an “Illinois homeless data certification.”
“This form must be completed with and signed by an official from a shelter or a public service agency,” Giannoulias said. “So, you know, we encourage everyone to get their REAL ID.”
All Illinois Driver Services facilities in Central Illinois are already issuing REAL ID. The fee is the same as the standard driver’s license renewal.
