‘We don’t want to see people freaking out’: Illinois Secretary of State clears up confusion about REAL ID as enforcement deadline approaches

CHICAGO — The deadline for REAL ID enforcement is just 75 days away and the Illinois Secretary of State is trying to clear up any confusion.

The back and forth on the REAL ID seems to be constant, in fact, the deadline for REAL ID enforcement has been delayed four times since the pandemic, but the official deadline is on May 7.

Will I need a REAL ID by May 7th?

While the deadline is quickly approaching, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said Thursday that he does not want people “freaking out” about what to do next.

The REAL ID is meant to be safer, more reliable and create a federal standard.

More than 3 million IDs have already been issued, but as of December that was only 25% of the state, which means Illinois residents have a long way to go and on Thursday, Giannoulious had a warning. 

“We don’t want to see people freaking out and sprinting to facilities,” Giannoulious said.

Once the deadline arrives, a REAL ID-compliant ID will be needed to board domestic flights or to visit certain federal facilities. But Giannoulious said those who can’t get one in time may still have options.

“More than likely you do not need a REAL ID by May 7th. If you have a valid passport, you can fly on a domestic flight no problem.

Once the deadline passes, those who do not have a REAL ID may need to provide another form of identification, like a U.S. passport or military ID, to board a plane. According to the Department of Homeland Security, minors flying with an adult do not need a REAL ID.

Will I need a REAL ID to drive?

While a REAL ID will serve as a driver’s license, the updated ID will not be needed to drive, vote, apply for federal benefits like Social Security, enter a federal facility that does not require an ID, visit a hospital, or participate in law enforcement proceedings or investigations.

“Since the new administration has taken over in DC, we’ve seen an influx of people who are confused about what REAL ID means and think they need it as a form of identification, and our point that we’re trying to hammer home today is that that’s not the case. You can still drive a vehicle, it’s a valid form of identification, you do not need a real ID to drive a vehicle,” Giannoulious said.

When will REAL ID enforcement begin?

The enforcement of the REAL ID is expected to be more of a phased-in approach by the TSA to avoid chaos and confusion at airports and they may simply give out warnings at first.

But for those who still need a REAL ID, Giannoulious had a clear message.

“Most of our facilities in the Chicago area and larger cities across the state require appointments so visit our website or call to schedule one,” Giannoulious said.

Demand for a REAL ID is expected to increase during the next two and a half months and two forms of identification will be needed to get one.

As for the cost, REAL IDs cost $30, the same amount as a standard driver’s license.