You’ll soon need a REAL ID to fly domestically. Here’s how to get one in Illinois
Travelers hoping to use their Illinois driver’s licenses and state identifications to board domestic flights and enter military bases should prepare themselves for a key deadline arriving May 3, 2023.
That’s the date the nation’s REAL ID law becomes enforceable in Illinois.
After May 3, if your state ID or driver’s license is missing the special golden star in the top right corner, you won’t be able to use it to visit secure federal facilities, like federal courthouses.
Nearly 3 million Illinois residents already have REAL IDs, and the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office is gearing up to push more individuals to get theirs before the deadline.
In response to the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001, the federal REAL ID law created minimum security standards for issuing and producing licenses. It also bars certain federal agencies from accepting IDs that don’t meet those standards.
That said, REAL IDs themselves technically aren’t mandatory.
U.S. passports and passport cards are also accepted, among other documents, though you might find having to show your passport to board a domestic flight cumbersome. Here’s what to know about how to get a REAL ID in Illinois.
Where can I get my REAL ID in Illinois and what does it cost?
The first step is to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility to take your photo and any required exams, but before you head out, make sure you have all the documents you need.
All applicants must provide proof of identity. Examples could be your birth certificate, passport, work visa or permanent resident card.
If you’ve been married and your name has changed, you’ll also need documentation to verify that. Certified copies of your marriage certificate will come in handy in that instance.
Applicants must provide proof of their social security number, like a social security card, W-2 or a pay stub with their full social security number.
You’ll also need two current residency documents with your name to verify your address. A utility bill, lease, bank statement or home deed will work.
Finally, REAL ID applicants will need to show proof of their signature. This includes a credit or debit card, canceled check or simply your current Illinois driver’s license or identification card.
At the facility, you’ll be given a temporary, paper driver’s license or state ID while your documents are under review and your new, permanent REAL ID card is mailed to you, which should happen within 15 days, according to the secretary of state’s office.
REAL ID driver’s licenses and state IDs cost the same as the regular license, according to the office. That’s a $30 fee for a new driver’s license and $20 for a new state ID. Full fees are listed on the agency’s website.
If you’re still unclear about which documents you need to bring, this interactive checklist may help you.
This story was originally published October 13, 2022 at 10:50 AM.