Illinois to Begin Issuing Real ID Driver’s Licenses
After years of preparation and anticipation, officials in Illinois have announced that they will begin issuing Real ID driver’s licenses to residents starting next month. The move comes as the state aims to comply with federal regulations that require all states to implement the new identification cards by October 1, 2020.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with the goal of enhancing the security and integrity of state-issued identification cards. The Act sets minimum security standards for the production and issuance of driver’s licenses and identification cards, and prohibits federal agencies from accepting cards that do not meet these standards for official purposes, such as boarding commercial aircraft or entering federal facilities.
Illinois residents have long been aware of the impending deadline for Real ID compliance, but the process of obtaining the new licenses has been met with some confusion and delays. State officials have been working tirelessly to streamline the application process and ensure that residents are able to obtain their new IDs in a timely manner.
“We understand that this process can be overwhelming for some residents, but we are committed to making it as simple and straightforward as possible,” said Secretary of State Jesse White. “We have been working closely with federal agencies and our partners to ensure that Illinois residents have the information and resources they need to obtain their Real ID licenses.”
To apply for a Real ID driver’s license in Illinois, residents will need to provide a variety of documents to prove their identity, residency, and Social Security number. These documents may include a valid passport, birth certificate, and utility bills or bank statements. In addition, residents will need to visit a Secretary of State facility in person to have their photo taken and fingerprints scanned.
The cost of a Real ID driver’s license in Illinois will be the same as a standard driver’s license, $30. However, residents will only be required to obtain a Real ID if they plan to use it for official federal purposes. Those who do not need to board a commercial aircraft or enter a federal facility may opt to stick with their standard driver’s license.
For many Illinois residents, the prospect of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license is a welcomed one. “I travel frequently for work, so having a Real ID will make my life a lot easier,” said Sarah Johnson, a Chicago resident. “It’s a small inconvenience to go through the process of getting one, but I know it will ultimately benefit me in the long run.”
While the process of obtaining a Real ID driver’s license may seem daunting, state officials are urging residents not to wait until the last minute to apply. With the October 1, 2020 deadline fast approaching, it is important for residents to start the process as soon as possible to ensure they have their new IDs in time.
“We want to make sure that everyone is prepared and has the information they need to obtain their Real ID,” said White. “We have extended hours at many of our facilities to accommodate the increased demand, and we are working diligently to process applications as quickly as possible.”
Illinois residents who are interested in obtaining a Real ID driver’s license can visit the Secretary of State’s website for more information on the application process and required documents. With the new IDs set to roll out next month, the state is hoping to make the transition as smooth as possible for residents as they prepare for the upcoming federal deadline.
