The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officially implemented REAL ID enforcement. REAL ID is a federal security standard, setting requirements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards to be acceptable for certain federal purposes. While a REAL ID is not necessary to drive, vote, for general identification purposes, or to receive state or federal services, it is now required to board a commercial aircraft for domestic transportation or to visit a military base or secure federal facility, unless another acceptable document is presented.
Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA will require every person 18 years and older to present a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license or ID card (or another acceptable form of identification, such as a valid U.S. or foreign government-issued passport, green card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)) to board a domestic flight. Travelers who arrive at TSA checkpoints without a compliant form of identification will not be allowed to pass through security.
Due to this recent requirement, the Secretary of State facilities and website have been overwhelmed with requests for REAL IDs. For Illinoisans who need to obtain a REAL ID for upcoming travel, it is recommended that they submit their application at least 30 days prior to the travel date. More information on the requirement and application process can be found at The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State’s REAL ID page.