Illinois Secretary of State urges residents to get REAL ID before deadline
With the May 7 deadline looming, Illinois is expanding DMV services — but not everyone needs a REAL ID. Find out if you do before facing the long lines.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has issued an urgent message regarding the upcoming May 7, 2025, deadline for obtaining a REAL ID. He emphasized that while the deadline is approaching, not all residents need to rush to acquire the ID immediately. Giannoulias clarified that the REAL ID is primarily required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. He urged residents to assess their individual needs before visiting DMV offices, which have been experiencing long lines due to increased demand.
To assist residents in determining whether they need a REAL ID, the Secretary of State's office has launched an online portal at realid.ilsos.gov. This tool helps users evaluate their necessity for the ID based on factors such as travel plans and existing identification documents. Giannoulias highlighted that individuals under 18, those with valid U.S. passports, or those not planning to fly domestically in the near future may not require a REAL ID at this time.
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Illinois to continue issuing REAL IDs after May 7 as Officials ease enforcement to reduce DMV overcrowding
Despite the approaching deadline, Giannoulias reassured the public that the state will continue issuing REAL IDs beyond May 7. He noted that there will be a two-year phased enforcement period during which alternative forms of identification, like passports, will still be accepted for air travel. This approach aims to alleviate the immediate pressure on DMV facilities and provide residents with ample time to obtain the necessary identification.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias urges residents to plan ahead for the REAL ID deadline, as DMV hours are extended to accommodate the surge in applications. Photo: Alexi Giannoulias X account
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, was designed to enhance security measures for identification documents. However, its implementation has faced multiple delays over the years. In Illinois, only about 30% of residents currently possess a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID. Giannoulias emphasized that while obtaining a REAL ID is important for certain activities, it is not mandatory for all residents, and unnecessary applications can contribute to overcrowding at DMV offices.
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Illinois extends DMV hours and urges residents to plan ahead for REAL ID applications before May 7 deadline
To accommodate the surge in applications, the Secretary of State's office has extended DMV hours, including offering Saturday appointments at select locations through the end of May. Residents are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance and ensure they have the required documentation, such as proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. Giannoulias advised against bringing children to DMV appointments unless they specifically need a REAL ID, as this can contribute to longer wait times.
In summary, while the May 7 deadline for REAL ID enforcement is significant, Illinois residents should evaluate their individual needs before seeking the identification. The state is committed to facilitating the process and ensuring that those who require a REAL ID can obtain one without unnecessary stress or delays. For more information and to assess your need for a REAL ID, visit realid.ilsos.gov.
