Illinois residents may soon find themselves facing a dilemma when it comes to flying domestically. As of October 1, 2020, the federal government will enforce stricter identification requirements for air travel under the REAL ID Act. This means that standard Illinois driver’s licenses may no longer be accepted as a valid form of identification at airport security checkpoints.
The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. The law established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, aimed at preventing fraudulent identification from being used to board commercial flights or enter federal buildings.
To comply with the REAL ID Act, Illinois residents will need a compliant form of identification, such as a REAL ID driver’s license, a U.S. passport, or a military ID, to board domestic flights starting in October 2020. The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office began issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses in January 2019, and residents are encouraged to upgrade their standard licenses to REAL ID licenses well before the deadline to avoid any potential travel disruptions.
Those who are not able to upgrade to a REAL ID driver’s license can still use their standard Illinois driver’s licenses for driving purposes but will need to have an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to fly domestically.
The inconvenience of having to carry an additional form of identification may be a concern for some Illinois residents, especially frequent flyers or those who rely on air travel for business or personal reasons. However, the added security measures implemented through the REAL ID Act are intended to enhance national security and protect travelers and airline passengers.
In addition to the REAL ID Act requirements, airlines may also require additional identification for certain flights or destinations. For international flights, a passport is typically required, regardless of whether the traveler holds a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. It is important for travelers to familiarize themselves with the specific identification requirements for their destination and airline to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Illinois residents who are unsure about the status of their driver’s license or who wish to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license can visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website or contact their local Secretary of State facility for more information. The process of obtaining a REAL ID may require additional documentation, such as proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, so it is recommended to begin the application process as soon as possible.
While the transition to REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses may pose some challenges for Illinois residents, the increased security measures are ultimately in the best interest of public safety and national security. By ensuring that all travelers have valid and verifiable identification, the government aims to reduce the risk of identity theft and ensure the safety of air travel for all passengers.
In the meantime, travelers are advised to plan ahead and make sure they have the necessary identification for their upcoming flights. By staying informed and proactive, Illinois residents can avoid any travel disruptions and enjoy a seamless flying experience, whether for business or pleasure. With the deadline for REAL ID compliance approaching, now is the time to take action and ensure that your identification is up to date and meets the federal requirements for air travel.
