Illinois Traveler’s Options For REAL ID Cards

For Illinois residents who fly domestically, the federal government has extended the Oct. 1, 2021, deadline that will require you to use a valid U.S. passport or obtain a REAL ID from the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. They are providing you with the choice either to obtain a REAL ID card or to keep a standard card. Take time to know your options. For information on other types of identification accepted by TSA, please visit the TSA website.

You can still travel (via airlines) with your valid US Passport.

To see what documents you need to apply for a REAL ID, visit the REAL ID Interactive Checklist. Come prepared and be patient when visiting a Driver Services Facility.

All Driver Services facilities are issuing REAL IDs, with the exception of mobile units and express facilities (Diversey, Lockport, Orland Park, Rockford Auburn St., Roscoe, and Washington). To find the nearest facility, visit Facility Finder.

Step 1: Visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and take your photo and any required exams.

Step 2: All applicants must provide proof of identity. (Examples are: a certified U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form.) *Name change documents, such as certified copies of a marriage certificate, etc., will be required if the applicant presents a certified birth certificate with a name different from his/her current name. Please note: Multiple name change documents will be required if your name has changed multiple times.

Step 3: All applicants must provide proof of full Social Security number (SSN). (Examples are: an SSN card, a W-2 or a pay stub with full SSN.)

Step 4: All applicants must provide two current residency documents with the applicant’s name. (Examples are: a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title or a bank statement. Account numbers must be visible.)

Step 5: All applicants must provide proof of signature. (Examples are: a credit/debit card, canceled check or current Illinois DL/ID.)

Step 6: Receive a temporary, secure paper DL/ID at the facility. *Please note that the TSA and federal agents will not accept the paper document.

Step 7: After review and verification of documents have been conducted, your new permanent REAL ID card will be mailed to you within 15 business days.