Without REAL ID, travelers face TSA’s $45 penalty just to pass through airport security. Starting February 1, travelers without a REAL ID or passport will have to pay TSA $45 for a trip and $90 if their trip lasts more than 10 days. The fee unfairly targets Illinoisans who travel infrequently and who can least afford it.

To help you avoid the fee, the Illinois Secretary of State is making it easier than ever to get your REAL ID: 

• Where do I go? Visit the REAL ID walk-in Supercenter in Chicago, extended through the end of 2026, or apply at full-service DMVs throughout the state.

• What documents do I need? Review our REAL ID checklist or contact our call center helpline at (800) 252-8980.

• How do I get copies of required documents? To help residents quickly access the documents they need, we’ve launched a first of its kind partnership with the Cook County Clerk’s office. And this is just the beginning. We hope to partner with counties throughout the state to offer services including:
  • Helping residents obtain key identity documents – such as birth certificates and marriage licenses, which many residents don’t have readily on hand – more easily and efficiently.
  • Designating cashiers at each Clerk’s office location to expedite REAL ID-related document requests.
  • Establishing an appointment system to accommodate REAL ID-related document requests.
  • Dedicating a telephone helpline 312-603-6278 and email Clerk.RealID@cookcountyil.gov (through the end of February) for help with obtaining birth, marriage, and civil union records ONLY. Note: You cannot get your REAL ID at the County Clerk's office, only vital records. You must visit a DMV to get your REAL ID. 

Having your REAL ID is the smart move that saves you money, time, and hassle at the airport for years to come.

How to Get a REAL ID

STEP 1: Gather your required documents.

You'll need to provide:

• One document with your full legal name, date of birth, and citizenship status or lawful status like a passport, birth certificate, permanent resident card, or employment authorization card.

• One document with your full Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, a W-2 with your full number, or a 1099.  (This requirement is waived if you have a valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID and have previously provided your Social Security card.)

• Two documents to prove your Illinois residency, like a bank statement, rental agreement, pay stub, utility bill, or voter registration card.

• One document to verify your written signature, like your current non-REAL ID driver’s license, a credit or debit card, a passport, or a canceled check.

Use our REAL ID document checklist to learn what documents are acceptable in applying for your REAL ID.

STEP 2: Visit a DMV or our REAL ID Supercenter in downtown Chicago.

The Supercenter is a walk-in only, non-appointment facility at 191 N. Clark St., open Monday through Friday, from 7:30 am to 5 pm.

Some DMVs require appointments, so check ahead.

STEP 3: Receive your temporary REAL ID.

After you apply for your REAL ID at the DMV, you’ll receive a temporary paper driver’s license or state ID on site. Your permanent REAL ID card should arrive in the mail within 15 business days. Haven’t received your card yet? Check the mailing status.

Starting February 1, TSA will accept only the permanent REAL ID card. If you present your temporary paper REAL ID, you will still be subject to TSA’s $45 upcharge. To avoid the fee, make sure you plan ahead and apply for your REAL ID at least one month before you travel.

Note: If you have already added your driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet, your new REAL ID status will be added automatically to your Mobile ID. 

Resources

Additional Links

• Department of Homeland Security 

• Transportation Security Administration 

Need help gathering your identity documents?

• Replace your Social Security card

• Get a certified copy of your U.S. birth certificate

• Apply for or renew a U.S. passport

• Replace your green card