What You Need for a Real ID in Illinois? One trip is all you need if you go prepared get it right get it done.

Starting May 7, 2025, the Real ID Act enforcement will require anyone flying domestically or entering certain federal facilities in Illinois to present a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification. If you’re an Illinois resident wondering, “What do I need for a Real ID in Illinois?” you’ve come to the right place.

This article covers everything you need to know about obtaining a Real ID in Illinois, including the required documents, the application process, and important tips to help you get your Real ID hassle-free.

What is a Real ID?

The Real ID is a federal law passed in 2005, designed to improve the security and reliability of state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Real IDs have a special star marking in the top right corner, indicating they meet federal security standards.

Starting from the enforcement date, you will need a Real ID or another TSA-approved form of identification, such as a passport, to:

• Fly domestically within the United States
• Enter federal buildings
• Access military bases

Do You Need a Real ID in Illinois? What You Need for a Real ID in Illinois dont wait for the long lines get out there.

You need a Real ID if you want to:

• Board a domestic flight without a passport
• Access military or federal facilities that require ID
• Use your driver’s license or state ID for federal purposes

If you rarely fly or don’t need federal building access, a Standard Illinois driver’s license or ID card will still be usable for most other purposes.

How to Get a Real ID in Illinois

Obtaining a Real ID in Illinois involves the following steps:

1. Gather the Required Documents

Illinois DMV requires applicants to bring original or certified copies of these documents:

Proof of Identity and Date of Birth

You need one of the following:

• Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card
• Original or certified birth certificate (issued by a city, county, or state vital statistics office)
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Proof of Social Security Number

You must show one of the following:

• Social Security card
• W-2 form showing Social Security number
• 1099 form showing Social Security number
• Pay stub with your name & SSN

Proof of Illinois Residency (2 documents required)

Examples include:

• Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or cable) dated within the last 90 days
• Bank or credit card statement
• Rental or lease agreement
• Illinois vehicle registration or insurance card
• School transcript or report card
• Pay stub or earnings statement

Proof of Signature

Your signature is verified using your current Illinois driver’s license or ID card if available.

2. Visit an Illinois Secretary of State Facility

Illinois does not offer Real ID online applications. You must apply in person at a Secretary of State Driver Service Facility.

Find your nearest location on the Illinois Secretary of State website.

3. Complete the Application and Pay the Fee

• Fill out the Real ID application form (available at the facility)
• Submit the required documents
• Pay the applicable fee (varies for driver’s license vs. ID card, typically $30-$40)

4. Take a New Photo

You will be photographed at the facility for your Real ID.

5. Receive Your Real ID

After processing, your new Real ID-compliant license or ID card will be mailed to your address.

Examples of Document Combinations to Bring

What You Need for a Real ID in Illinois Here are sample document groups you need to bring to get a Real ID in Illinois

Note: All documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted.

Important Tips for Getting a Real ID in Illinois

Check Document Validity and Names

Ensure names and dates of birth match across all documents. If your name changed due to marriage or other reasons, bring legal proof like a marriage certificate or court order.

Prepare Original or Certified Copies

Bring original or certified documents — Illinois DMV does not accept photocopies or notarized copies.

No Appointment Needed, But Check Hours

You can walk into most Illinois Secretary of State offices for Real ID, but non-peak hours are best to avoid long waits.

Keep Your Current License Until Real ID Arrives

You will keep your current license until you receive your Real ID in the mail.

What You Need for a Real ID in Illinois? How Much Does a Real ID Cost in Illinois?

The cost for a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card varies depending on your age and the type of ID. Approximate fees are:

• Driver’s License: $30 – $40
• Identification Card: $30 – $40

Renewal fees may be similar. Check the official Illinois Secretary of State website for up-to-date fee information.

What If I Already Have a Passport?

If you already have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, you do not need a Real ID to fly domestically or enter federal buildings. However, many people choose to get a Real ID for convenience as it serves as a federally accepted ID without having to carry your passport.

What Happens If You Don’t Get a Real ID?

Starting May 7, 2025, if you don’t have a Real ID or another TSA-accepted ID:

• You won’t be able to use your Illinois driver’s license or ID card for domestic air travel
• You won’t be able to access certain secure federal government facilities

You’ll need to carry an alternative ID like a valid passport or Military ID instead.

Summary: What Do You Need for a Real ID in Illinois?

Here’s a quick checklist of what you need to apply for your Real ID in Illinois:

• Proof of identity and date of birth: U.S. passport, birth certificate, or equivalent
• Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2, 1099, or pay stub with SSN
• Two proofs of Illinois residency: Utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, and more
• Visit in person to a Secretary of State Driver Service Facility
• Pay the fee (usually $30-$40)
• Take a new photo at the facility

Getting your Real ID early will help ensure smooth travel and federal facility access once the deadline arrives.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Real ID in Illinois is a straightforward process if you prepare your documents ahead of time. Understanding exactly what you need to bring will save you multiple trips and delays.

Make sure to gather your original documents, visit a Secretary of State facility, and submit your application well before the May 2025 deadline. Whether you plan to travel domestically or just want that added level of identification security, the Real ID is an important step.

For the latest updates and more details, visit the Illinois Secretary of State Real ID page. Stay informed and stay prepared!