What’s the latest Real ID deadline for Illinois residents? It’s changed a few times
The extended deadline to obtain a Real ID to fly or enter federal facilities and nuclear power plants is approaching, and Illinois residents have less than a year to comply.
The Real ID deadline is set for May 7, 2025, for Illinois, Missouri and residents across the U.S. The original deadline was 2008, but it’s been extended several times.
All U.S. states issue Real IDs as of 2020. Washington, D.C., and all U.S. territories except the American Samoa also issue Real IDs as of 2022. The Federal Register reported in March the American Samoa is under Department of Homeland Security review for a “compliance determination.”
The DHS has not announced an extended deadline beyond May 7, 2025. Here’s what to know about obtaining a Real ID in Illinois, including the cost.
What do you need to get a Real ID in Illinois?
People who have a valid U.S. passport or don’t fly domestically, access federal facilities or enter nuclear power plants can continue to use regular state identifications in lieu of getting a Real ID.
Illinois residents who need a Real ID will need to follow this process to get one:
Visit an Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles and take your picture and any required exams.
Provide proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, employment authorization document, permanent resident card or foreign passport with an approved I-94 form. Name-change documents will be required for applicants whose birth certificate name is not the same as their current name.
Proof of full Social Security number such as your Social Security card, W-2 or paystub that shows the whole number.
Provide two current residency documents with your name, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, deed/title or bank statement with visible account numbers.
Proof of signature, such as current Illinois ID, credit or debit card or a canceled check.
After providing these documents, you’ll receive a temporary paper ID which will not be accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and federal agents. Your Real ID will be mailed within 15 business days. Your Real ID will appear similar to a normal license or ID, but include a small star in the corner denoting it as a Real ID.
Fees for a Real ID are the same as the standard ID fee in Illinois, which varies based on age. Here’s how much you can expect to pay:
- Driver’s license basic: $30
- Age 18 to 20: $5
- Age 21 to 68: $30
- Age 69 to 80: $5
- Age 81 to 86: $2
- Age 87 and older: Free
- Driver’s license corrected or duplicate: $5
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