The Real ID law is set to officially go into effect in Illinois in less than three weeks, bringing new rules and regulations that have caused some confusion among residents.
According to a recent statement by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, valid identification compliant with the Real ID requirements will be necessary for air travel. However, travelers can also use valid U.S. passports as an alternative.
To determine if a driver’s license or state ID meets Real ID standards, residents can look for a star in the upper right corner of their identification card.
In addition to air travel, a Real ID will be required to access certain federal facilities. However, Secretary Giannoulias clarified that there is no need for a Real ID simply to drive, addressing some of the misinformation circulating about the new identification requirements.
For Illinois residents who do not plan to travel after the enforcement date of May 7, Giannoulias recommends holding off on obtaining a Real ID to avoid long wait times at DMV facilities.
“Most Illinoisans do not need one before May 7, and they can still get one after that date,” Giannoulias noted.
Before visiting a DMV or supercenter, residents should confirm their need for a Real ID by visiting the official state website at realid.ilsos.gov.
For residents looking to obtain a Real ID, the Chicago Loop location at 191 N. Clark St., previously a Walgreens, has been designated as the “Real ID Supercenter.”
Real IDs can also be acquired at other local Illinois DMV offices. The Secretary of State’s office advises residents to make appointments online, but individuals should be aware that appointment slots may be limited.
To obtain a Real ID, residents will need to present four key items at the time of their appointment. A comprehensive checklist is available on the state’s official website.
First, proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful residency is required. Acceptable documents include an original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766), a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), or an unexpired foreign passport with a valid visa and approved Form I-94.
Second, individuals must provide proof of their full Social Security number. This can be demonstrated with documents such as a Social Security card, W-2, a pay stub that displays their full name and SSN, or various other official records containing their Social Security number.
Additionally, residents must present two documents that confirm their residency. Acceptable proofs of residency can include a utility bill, rental agreement, mortgage bill, or a medical document. It’s important to provide hard copies of these documents as digital images are not accepted.
Finally, individuals must show proof of their signature, which could be a credit or debit card, a cancelled check, or a current Illinois driver’s license or ID.
The cost to obtain a Real ID will be $30, which is the same price as a regular Illinois driver’s license or identification card.
As the deadline approaches, it’s crucial for Illinois residents to understand these regulations fully and prepare accordingly to avoid last-minute rushes and complications.
image source from：https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/when-is-the-real-id-deadline-what-to-know-as-the-date-approaches/3726491/
