Owais Crawford
As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or ID card, or another acceptable form of identification, is required for anyone aged 18 or over to board a flight within the US or enter a secure federal building. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification. Illinois residents can apply for a REAL ID driver's license or ID card, but they cannot hold both. Illinois driver's licenses are considered valid forms of ID for boarding a domestic flight until May 7, 2025. After this date, passengers without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| REAL ID-compliant Illinois driver's license | Accepted as a valid form of identification at airports until May 7, 2025 |
| Non-REAL ID-compliant Illinois driver's license | Not accepted as a valid form of identification at airports from May 7, 2025 onwards; additional screening required |
| Temporary Illinois driver's license | Not accepted as a valid form of identification at airports |
| REAL ID application | Requires proof of signature, residency, Social Security number, and identity; may require certified name change documents if the applicant's name has changed |
| REAL ID receipt | Accepted as a valid form of identification at airports until the permanent card arrives |
| Permanent Illinois driver's license | Issued within 15 business days of the temporary license |
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What You'll Learn
- Illinois driver's licenses are accepted at airports until May 7, 2025
- After May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license is required
- REAL ID applications can take two to three weeks to arrive
- REAL ID alternatives include a valid U.S. passport or passport card
- TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration
Illinois driver's licenses are accepted at airports until May 7, 2025
Illinois drivers' licenses are accepted at airports until May 7, 2025. After this date, a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or ID card, or another acceptable form of identification, will be required to board a flight within the US. This means that Illinois residents will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card, or an alternative such as a valid US passport, to board domestic flights.
Until the May 7, 2025 deadline, Illinois drivers' licenses can be used as a valid form of identification at airport security checkpoints. This includes TSA checkpoints, where travelers can present their state-issued driver's license or ID to verify their identity and proceed through security. However, it is important to note that TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable IDs before arriving at the airport, as the list is subject to change without notice.
For Illinois residents who plan to continue using their state-issued driver's license or ID for domestic travel, it is recommended to submit a REAL ID application before the deadline. This can be done through their state DMV offices. Obtaining a REAL ID typically involves gathering the required documents, which may include proof of signature and name change documentation if the current name differs from that on the birth certificate. Illinois residents can refer to the state's website for specific instructions and requirements.
It is worth noting that travelers without a REAL ID or acceptable alternative form of ID may still be able to fly after undergoing additional screening. However, they may experience longer wait times at the airport, as TSA may direct them to separate areas for further identity verification. To avoid delays, travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport with adequate time and ensure they have the necessary identification documents.
In summary, Illinois drivers' licenses remain valid for air travel within the US until May 7, 2025. After this deadline, travelers will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or alternative form of identification. Illinois residents are advised to plan ahead and apply for a REAL ID in advance if they intend to use it for domestic travel.
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After May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license is required
Starting May 7, 2025, all US travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license, state-issued identification card, or another acceptable form of ID to board a commercial aircraft. This means that a REAL ID-compliant license or ID will be mandatory for domestic air travel within the US.
If you plan to fly within the US after May 7, 2025, and you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, you will need to use another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid US passport, US Department of Defense ID, Transportation Worker Identification Credential, or other federally approved identification. It is recommended to submit your REAL ID application at least 30 to 60 days prior to your flight to ensure you receive your REAL ID in time.
If you choose not to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, you will still be able to drive and enter certain federal facilities with a standard driver's license or ID. However, you will need an alternative form of federally-accepted identification to board domestic flights, enter secure federal facilities, or enter military bases.
To apply for a REAL ID, you will need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of legal presence, and proof of your Social Security number, if applicable. You will also need to provide proof of any name changes, such as a marriage license or court document, if your identity document is in a different name. All documents must be originals and will be subject to verification.
It is important to note that a temporary driver's license or state ID will not be accepted as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. Additionally, the TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable forms of identification before traveling to ensure they have the proper documentation.
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REAL ID applications can take two to three weeks to arrive
As of May 7, 2025, all state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. This means that passengers will need to travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
Illinois residents with flight plans after May 7, 2025, are advised to submit their REAL ID application at least 30 days before their flight. This is because REAL ID applications can take two to three weeks to arrive. The REAL ID application process can be frustrating, with multiple requirements and paperwork. It is recommended that Illinois residents check for appointment availability at 6:30 a.m. daily, as new appointments are added at this time. After submitting a REAL ID application, residents will receive a temporary paper driver's license or state ID, but these paper IDs will not be accepted at airports.
To apply for a REAL ID, Illinois residents must provide proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful status, date of birth, and identity. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, a valid passport, an employment authorization form, and other documents. Additionally, applicants must provide a Social Security card or employment tax forms with a printed Social Security number. If an applicant's identity document is in a different name, they must provide certified name change documents, such as a marriage license or court document. Photocopies of these documents will not be accepted.
It is important to note that REAL IDs are not required for everyone. Standard state driver's licenses and ID cards will remain sufficient for driving, proof of citizenship, and valid identification after May 7, 2025. REAL IDs will only be necessary for individuals who plan to fly domestically, visit military bases, federal courthouses, or other secure federal facilities.
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REAL ID alternatives include a valid U.S. passport or passport card
From May 7, 2025, every state resident will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or state-issued ID card to board a flight within the US. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers will need to travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
Illinois residents with flight plans after May 7, 2025, are recommended to submit their REAL ID application at least 30 days prior to their flight. A temporary driver's license or state ID will not be accepted as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
If you are travelling internationally, you will still need a passport. If you are travelling domestically, you will only need one valid REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
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TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration
As of May 7, 2025, all passengers aged 18 and above must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board a domestic flight in the US. This includes a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). A temporary driver's license is not considered an acceptable form of ID.
Illinois residents with flight plans after May 7, 2025, are advised to submit their REAL ID application at least 30 days before their trip. It is worth noting that a REAL ID-compliant driver's license and ID card cannot be held simultaneously.
While the TSA strongly recommends checking their website for an up-to-date list of acceptable IDs before traveling, they do currently accept expired IDs for up to two years after their expiration date. This means that if your ID expired within the last two years, you may still be able to use it as a valid form of identification at airport security checkpoints. However, it is important to note that this policy may change, and it is always best to travel with a valid form of identification.
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID requirements, it is recommended to check with your state department of motor vehicles. Additionally, passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant and do not have another acceptable form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it must be REAL ID-compliant. Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers 18 years and older must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board a domestic flight.
You can either obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or use another acceptable form of ID, such as a valid U.S. passport.
You can obtain a REAL ID-compliant Illinois driver's license at your local DMV office or online if you are out of state. It is recommended to apply at least 30 days before flying.
Other acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. passport card, military ID, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and a Department of Defense ID.
If you do not have acceptable identification or decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. It is important to always carry acceptable ID when traveling.
