When do you need a real ID to fly? Here’s what to know – NBC Chicago

After several delays, the deadline is approaching a real ID requirement to board domestic flights and go into safe federal buildings, and many may be wondering when to receive their and what they need.

From May 7, the federal government requires whom all those who fly domestic to use either a valid US passport or a real ID to board a plane.

The program is part of the Real ID Act, was adopted by Congress in 2005 after the publication of the Commission’s report on September 11 in an attempt to increase the security of the identification documents, making them more difficult to duplicate.

“A non-real ID driver’s license or state ID will remain valid for general identification purposes until the expiry date printed on the license or ID,” a spokesman for the Illinois State Secretary’s office said. “But if the person flies domestic or after May 7 or after May 7, they will have to present TSA with a real ID or passport.”

According to the Illinois State Secretary’s office, a real ID must be obtained by visiting a DMV via a deal, but stains are quickly filled. Once achieved, a real ID date retains the expiry date from a non-real ID card, the office said.

“Appointments to Real ID (growing) in number every day,” Irene told Paterno with the Illinois State Secretary’s office to NBC Chicago.

As the deadline is approaching, here is a breakdown of where Illinois residents should use real IDs over basic driver’s license.

What is a real ID?

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

The law was originally scheduled to come into force on October 19, 2021. Due to the covide pandemic, the deadline was extended to May 7, 2025. On this date the law will be passed in all 50 states.

Are you required to get an Illinois Real ID?

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

From May 7, 2025, either a passport, passport card or a real ID is required if you are planning to travel via aircraft domestic. A real ID is also required to visit military bases or secure federal facilities such as courts and prisons, officials said.

When is the real ID period?

As of May 7, 2025, real ID-compatible identification is required for residents planning to fly domestic.

“For Illinois residents flying domestic, in force on May 7, 2025, the federal government will require you to use a valid US passport or get a real ID from the Illinois State Secretary’s office. If you have a valid US passport or passport card , Military ID or other federally approved identification, you can continue to use it as your form of identification after May 7, 2025, “said the Illinois State Secretary’s office.

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 from the State Secretary’s office sites, although many require agreements to present materials needed to get the identification.

Already in Illinois, State Secretary Alexi Giannoulias said his office increased efforts to ensure residents get real ID-compatible identification by next year’s deadline, recognizing that there is concern about the slow pace of getting the cards.

An Illinois Real ID is also available at 2025 Chicago Auto Show without appointment as long as you have the right documentation.

What do you need to bring you to get a real ID?

To apply for a real ID in Illinois do you need the following things, according to Illinois State Secretary:

1. Proof of identity and US citizenship or legal status. Bring one of the following documents: an original or certified copy of a US birth certificate; an american passport or passport card; A document for employment approval, Form I-766; a permanent resident card, Form I-551; or an unpotked foreign passport with a visa and approved form I-94. For a complete list, see Acceptable identification documents briefly.
2. Proof of full social security number (SSN). Bring one of the following documents: a social security card; W-2; Pay stump or printed electronic deposit receipt with your name and full SSN; SSA-1099 Form; or non-SSA-1099 form. Original documents are required.
3. Two (2) residence documents. This includes documents such as a bill, rental agreement, priority bill or medical document. Documents on paper copies are required. Photos from a mobile phone are not accepted, but you can print the image (ex: the back phrase) and give the printed copy. For a complete list, see Acceptable identification documents briefly.
4. Proof of signature. This includes documents such as credit/debit card, canceled check or current Illinois DL/ID. For a complete list, see Acceptable identification documents briefly.