Illinois extends DMV hours in 12 offices to help residents get their Real ID before May 7 deadline

With the Real ID deadline approaching, Illinois has extended DMV hours at select locations. This initiative aims to assist residents in obtaining the required identification for domestic flights and access to federal facilities. Illinois Secretary of State, Alexi Giannoulias, announced the launch of "Real ID Saturdays" at 12 DMV offices. From March 1 to May 10, these offices will be open on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., without requiring an appointment, exclusively for Real ID processing. Additionally, approximately 2,500 daily appointments have been added across 44 offices operating by appointment in Chicago and its suburbs.

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DMV locations with extended hours

• Addison: 50 E. Oak St., Addison, IL 60101
• Aurora: 339 E. Indian Trail, Aurora, IL 60505
• Chicago West: 5301 W. Lexington St., Chicago, IL 60644
• Des Plaines: 1470 Lee St., Des Plaines, IL 60018
• Elgin: 595 S. State, Elgin, IL 60123
• Joliet: 201 S. Joyce Rd., Joliet, IL 60435
• Lake Zurich: 951 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047
• Melrose Park: 1903 N. Mannheim Rd., Melrose Park, IL 60160
• Plano: 236 Mitchell Dr., Plano, IL 60545
• St. Charles: 3851 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174
• Waukegan: 617 S. Green Bay Rd., Waukegan, IL 60085
• Woodstock: 428 S. Eastwood Dr., Woodstock, IL 60098

Not all Illinois residents are required to obtain a Real ID. Those who have a valid U.S. passport, Global Entry card or military ID can use these documents for domestic flights and access to federal facilities. Additionally, individuals who don’t plan to travel by commercial air or enter federal buildings don't need a Real ID. For greater clarity, the authorities are expected to set up a platform on their website where each person can verify on their own whether they need to carry out the procedure or not.

Required documents for Real ID application

To obtain a Real ID, applicants must present the following documents:

• Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or legal status: Original birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or permanent resident card.
• Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub showing the full SSN.
• Two current residency documents: Utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements.
• Proof of signature: Credit/debit card, canceled check, or a current driver’s license.

The cost of a Real ID is $30, the same as a standard driver’s license. For more information and to ensure all requirements are met, residents should visit the official Illinois Secretary of State website.