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Illinois residents should reconsider renewing their ID if it’s not expiring soon!
This message comes from Illinois Secretary of State’s REAL ID website.
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Why Is It So Difficult to Get an Appointment?
Due to federally mandated Real ID requirements, state facilities and websites have been overwhelmed with requests. As a result, authorities are urging individuals to assess whether they truly need a REAL ID before booking an appointment or visiting a facility.
The May 7th date is NOT a final deadline—individuals can still travel with a valid U.S. Passport.
For those struggling to secure an appointment, Illinois residents can visit the new walk-in Real ID Only Supercenter at 191 N. Clark St., Chicago (Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) or a walk-in Real ID Saturday DMV.
When Is a REAL ID or U.S. Passport Required?
- To board a commercial aircraft for domestic travel
- To visit military bases or secure federal facilities
When Is a REAL ID Not Required?
- To drive
- To vote
- To verify identity for general identification purposes
- To enter state or federal buildings that do not require ID for access
- To receive state or federal services
Document Requirements for a REAL ID Driver’s License/State ID
Applicants must provide one document from Group A, B, and C, plus two from Group D:
(This is only part of the list—the full list can be found at realid.ilsos.gov
Group A: Proof of Signature
- Credit or Debit Card (major brands)
- Social Security Card
- U.S. Passport (current or expired less than 2 years)
Group B: Proof of Date of Birth
- U.S. Passport (current or expired less than 2 years)
- Birth Certificate
- Citizenship Certificate (N560/N561)
- Naturalization Certificate (N550/N570)
Group C: Proof of Social Security Number (SSN)
- Pay Stub or Deposit Receipt with Name & SSN
- Social Security Card (issued by SSA)
- SSA-1099 Form
- W-2 Form
Group D: Proof of Residency (Two Required)
- Utility Bill (electric, water, phone, cable, or gas, issued within 90 days)
- Bank Statement (issued within 90 days)
- Credit Card Statement (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, Discover, Diners Club)
- Homeowner’s or Renter’s Insurance Policy
- Official Mail from a government agency (includes Jury Duty Notice, Selective Service Card, Social Security Benefits Statement, Voter Registration Card)
For more information, visit Illinois Secretary of State’s REAL ID website.
