SECRETARY OF STATE ALEXI GIANNOULIAS
With just 11 days to go, the May 7 REAL ID deadline is quickly approaching, and Joyce Wasner, a REAL ID representative for St. Sabina, is sounding the alarm.
“Without it, people will not be able to board airplanes or enter federal facilities,” Wasner warned, urging residents to obtain the updated identification before time runs out.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, sets higher security standards for state-issued identification cards and driver’s licenses. Once the law goes into effect, standard licenses will no longer be accepted to access federal buildings, nuclear power plants, or board domestic flights.
Wasner stressed the importance of applying early to avoid long lines at local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) supports the measure, citing it as a vital step in protecting the country against identity theft and criminal activity. Wasner said the government is aiming to “bolster safety by making fraudulent IDs harder to forge, thwarting criminals and terrorists.”
TSA officials said they are working to implement the law “effectively and efficiently,” minimizing delays while maintaining passenger security. Starting May 7, all airline passengers aged 18 and older—including TSA PreCheck members—must present a REAL ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport, at TSA checkpoints.
Travelers who fail to bring proper identification may be subject to delays, additional screening, or may be denied entry to secure areas.
TSA officials also clarified that noncitizens without lawful status who are voluntarily self-deporting on international flights will not be prevented from boarding under the new rules.
According to Wasner, obtaining a REAL ID costs $30 if it is part of a license renewal.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website or contact their nearest DMV office for guidance on the documents required to obtain a REAL ID.