Since May 7, 2025, federal law requires a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card to board domestic flights and enter certain federal facilities. Not everyone needs one. You can choose a REAL ID card or keep a standard card.
Standard vs. REAL ID card
| Use | Standard | REAL ID |
|---|---|---|
| Driving (driver's license only) | Yes | Yes |
| General identification | Yes | Yes |
| Domestic U.S. flight after May 7, 2025 | No | Yes |
| Entering a military base or secure federal facility | No | Yes |
You do NOT need a REAL ID if:
- You have a valid U.S. passport or passport card
- You do not fly on airplanes for domestic travel
- You do not visit military bases
- You do not visit secure federal facilities
Know the rule
You NEED a REAL ID if you do not have a valid U.S. passport or passport card AND you fly domestically, visit military bases, or visit secure federal facilities.
Handbook p. 3 ↗Every applicant proves who they are with original documents. The Secretary of State sorts acceptable documents into four groups. The number you bring depends on whether it's your first card, a renewal, or a duplicate.
The four document groups
| Group | Proves |
|---|---|
| A | Written signature |
| B | Date of birth |
| C | Social Security number |
| D | Residency |
First-time applicant needs
| Proof | Standard card | REAL ID |
|---|---|---|
| Signature (Group A) | 1 document | 1 document |
| Date of birth (Group B) | 1 document | 1 document |
| Social Security number (Group C) | 1 document | 1 document |
| Residency (Group D) | 1 document | 2 documents |
Know the rule
A first-time REAL ID applicant must also prove identity, including U.S. citizenship or lawful status. This applies even if you already hold a standard Illinois card.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Know the rule
If an identity document shows a name different from your current legal name (such as a birth certificate), also bring proof of the reason for the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or adoption papers.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Document ground rules:
- Photocopies are not accepted
- Documents must be valid (current and unexpired) unless otherwise noted
- One document may satisfy more than one group
- Group D documents must show your full name and residence address
- New residents must surrender all out-of-state licenses/IDs before getting an Illinois card
Know the rule
When you apply you must give a valid mailing address, have your photo taken, surrender all other Illinois licenses, ID cards and instruction permits, pass the required exams, and pay the fee. Your signature is compared as part of verification.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Examples of residency (Group D) documents:
- Utility bill issued within 90 days of application
- Bank statement or canceled check dated within 90 days
- Deed/title, mortgage, or rental/lease agreement
- Homeowner's or renter's insurance policy
- Pay stub or electronic deposit receipt
- Credit report from Experian, Equifax or TransUnion dated within 12 months
NOT accepted as identification (examples):
- College or university ID card
- Library card or wallet ID
- Insurance card or vehicle registration
- International Driving Permit
- Instruction permit/receipt or a traffic citation
- Illinois FOID card or Concealed Carry card
- Hunting or fishing license, or personal mail
Put it into practice
You're getting your first REAL ID and have a birth certificate, Social Security card, and one utility bill. You still need a second residency document, such as a bank statement dated within 90 days.