When Do You Need a Real ID to Fly? Here’s What to Know

What is a Real ID?

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, “establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.”

The act was originally scheduled to go into effect Oct. 19, 2021. However, due to the COVID pandemic, the deadline was extended to May 7, 2025. On that date, the act will be adopted in all 50 states.

Are you required to get an Illinois Real ID?

No, but it may be more convenient to get one.

Beginning May 7, 2025, a either a passport, passport card or a Real ID will be required if you plan to travel via airplane domestically. A real ID will also be required to visit military bases or secure federal facilities like courthouses and prisons, officials said.

When is the Real ID deadline?

Beginning on May 7, 2025, Real ID-compliant identification will be required for residents who plan to fly domestically.

“For Illinois residents who fly domestically, effective May 7, 2025, the federal government will require you to use a valid U.S. passport or obtain a REAL ID from the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. If you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, military ID or other federally approved identification, you may continue to use it as your form of identification after May 7, 2025,” the Illinois Secretary of State’s office said.

How much does a Real ID cost?

The cost of a REAL ID is the same as a standard license, according to officials.

Where can you get a Real ID?

The cards can be obtained at Secretary of State’s Office locations, though many will require appointments to present materials needed to get the identification.

Already in Illinois, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said his office was stepping up efforts to ensure that residents get REAL ID-compliant identification prior to next year’s deadline, and acknowledged there are concerns about the slow pace of obtaining the cards.

An Illinois Real ID can also be obtained at the 2025 Chicago Auto Show without an appointment as long as you have the proper documentation.

What do you need to bring with you to get a Real ID?

To apply for a Real ID in Illinois you’ll need the following items, according to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office:

1. Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful status. Bring in one of the following documents: an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate; a U.S. passport or passport card; an Employment Authorization Document, Form I-766; a Permanent Resident Card, Form I-551; or an unexpired foreign passport with affixed visa and approved Form I-94. For a complete list, please view the Acceptable Identification Documents Chart.
2. Proof of full Social Security number (SSN). Bring in one of the following documents: a Social Security card; W-2; pay stub or printed electronic deposit receipt bearing your name and full SSN; SSA-1099 Form; or Non-SSA-1099 Form. Original documents are required.
3. Two (2) residency documents. This includes documents such as a utility bill, rental agreement, mortgage bill or medical document. Hard copy documents are required. Images from a cellphone are not accepted, but you may print the image (ex: bank statement) and provide the printed copy. For a complete list, please view the Acceptable Identification Documents Chart.
4. Proof of signature. This includes documents such as credit/debit card, cancelled check or current Illinois DL/ID. For a complete list, please view the Acceptable Identification Documents Chart.

Conclusion

As the deadline approaches, it’s essential to understand the requirements for obtaining a Real ID and what documents are needed to apply. With the cost being the same as a standard license, it’s a relatively simple process to obtain a Real ID. Make sure to plan ahead and schedule an appointment at the Secretary of State’s Office to ensure you receive your Real ID in time for the May 7, 2025 deadline.

FAQs

* What is a Real ID?
+ A Real ID is a type of identification card that meets the minimum security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security.
* Do I need a Real ID to fly domestically?
+ Yes, beginning May 7, 2025, a Real ID or a valid U.S. passport will be required to fly domestically.
* Can I still use my current driver’s license to fly domestically?
+ No, beginning May 7, 2025, a Real ID or a valid U.S. passport will be required to fly domestically.
* How do I obtain a Real ID?
+ You can obtain a Real ID at the Secretary of State’s Office locations, though many will require appointments to present materials needed to get the identification.