Deadline approaching for Illinois residents to get a REAL ID

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — One year from now, Illinois residents will be required to possess a REAL ID card to board flights and visit certain federal offices.

After May 7th, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will no longer accept identification that does not meet the standards established in the REAL ID Act of 2005, which was passed in response to the 9/11 attacks.

The deadline was pushed back several times due to a backlog at driver’s license facilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

REAL ID cards look like driver’s licenses but contain a gold star, in addition to using technology that makes them more difficult to forge.

To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit a Secretary of State Drivers Service facility with documentation showing their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, proof of signature, and proof of citizenship.

A full checklist can be found on the Illinois Secretary of State ‘s website.

Persons who possess a valid US Passport or do not intend to fly, visit military bases or secure federal facilities do not need a REAL ID.

Residents under the age of 18 can still fly without a REAL ID.

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