Don't rush to get a REAL ID.

REAL ID is optional! Find out if you need it:

  • Are you planning to fly domestically or visit a Federal facility after May 7, 2025?
  • Yes / Don't Know
    • Does your Drivers License / ID have a star in the top right-hand corner?
    • Yes

      Good news, you already have a REAL ID!
      You will need this ID to board domestic flights and may need this or another acceptable form of identification to visit federal facilities after May 7, 2025.

    • No
      • Do you have a valid U.S. passport?
      • Yes

        Good news! A valid U.S. passport is an acceptable form of identification and may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities. You DO NOT need a REAL ID.

      • No
        • Click here to see if you have one of these acceptable forms of identification that may also be used to board domestic flights and visit federal facilities (link will open in a new window). Do you have one of these? 
        • Yes

          Good news! These alternate forms of identification may be used in lieu of a REAL ID Drivers License or ID at the airport to board domestic flights and when visiting federal facilities. You DO NOT need a REAL ID.

        • No

          Important: if you want to board domestic flights or visit federal facilities beginning May 7, 2025 you may need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.

          Be prepared for your DMV visit by completing the REAL ID Interactive Checklist to ensure you have your documents.
          Please note: if you are applying for a REAL ID at the time of renewal and need a road test, you must make an appointment.

  • No

    Good news! You DO NOT need a REAL ID.


What is REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a driver’s license or ID card that is also a federally accepted form of identification. REAL ID cards have a star in the upper-right hand corner-right corner.

Beginning May 7, 2025, the federal government 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 — like a valid U.S. passport — to board a flight within the U.S. or enter a secure federal building.

For Illinoisans with flight plans after May 7, 2025, it is recommended they submit their REAL ID application at least 30 days prior to the flight. A temporary driver’s license or state ID will not be accepted as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification.

Illinois Driver's License
Illinois Driver's License Real ID

REAL ID is Optional!

You DO NOT NEED a REAL ID to:
  • Drive
  • Vote
  • Identify yourself for general identification purposes
  • Enter a state building or federal building that does not require and ID to enter.
  • Receive state or federal services
You NEED a REAL ID or valid U.S. Passport to:
  • Board a commercial aircraft as a mode of domestic transportation
  • Visit a military bases or secure federal facilities.

How To Get a REAL ID

  1. Gather your required documents.
    Use the interactive REAL ID document checklist or review the list of Acceptable documents to gather the documents you’ll need to apply for your REAL ID.
    Keep in mind that:
    • Documents must be valid
    • Only original hard copies are accepted
    • Printed electronic documents can be used (e.g., bank statements)
    • All account numbers must be clearly visible
    • No photocopies are allowed
    Acceptable Documents
    REAL ID Interactive Checklist
  2. Visit a DMV facility or our new Real ID Supercenter
    The Supercenter is a walk-in only, non-appointment facility at 191 N. Clark St. in downtown Chicago, Monday-Friday, 7:30 am-5:00 pm.
    You must apply in person at a DMV facility. Some DMVs require appointments.
    Make an appointment
    Find a DMV Facility

More Information

  • The cost of a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card is the same as the traditional license or ID card, and the process to get one is similar.
  • You can get either a REAL ID driver’s license or an ID card, but you can’t hold both.
  • If you’re renewing a person with a disability ID card and want to switch to a REAL ID, you must submit a new Application for an Illinois Person with a Disability Identification Card. This form must be completed by a physician and dated within the last 3 months.
  • A person without a REAL ID who holds another federally approved form of identification may still be able to board domestic flights and enter military bases and secure federal facilities by presenting the federally approved form of identification with a traditional driver’s license and ID card.