Starting May 7, 2025, Illinois residents will need a REAL ID or a valid passport to board domestic flights and enter secure federal buildings. Illinois is also launching optional digital driver’s licenses by late 2025, and as of July 1, 2024, all residents—regardless of immigration status—can get a standard driver’s license marked “Federal Limits Apply.” REAL IDs are optional but useful for air travel. Call Insure On The Spot at 773-202-5060 for guidance or get a free insurance quote today.
What’s New With Illinois Licenses in 2025?
Illinois is rolling out a series of major changes to its driver’s license and ID system:
- REAL ID deadline: The federal government will begin enforcing REAL ID requirements on May 7, 2025. To fly domestically or access federal buildings, you’ll need a REAL ID or another approved form of identification (like a passport).
- Digital driver’s licenses: Starting in late 2025, Illinois residents will be able to opt into a digital version of their license stored on their smartphone (such as in Apple Wallet). This is optional and not required for driving.
- Standard licenses for undocumented residents: As of July 1, 2024, undocumented Illinois residents can now receive standard driver’s licenses. These new licenses replace the older TVDL cards and will be marked “Federal Limits Apply” instead of “Not Valid for Identification.”
- Central issuance process: You’ll receive a temporary paper license at the DMV, and your permanent card will arrive by mail in 10–15 business days. This process applies to both REAL ID and standard licenses.
What Is a REAL ID and Do You Need One?
A REAL ID is a federally compliant version of your driver’s license or state ID card. It has a gold star in the top-right corner and is accepted by TSA for domestic flights and federal buildings.
You do not need a REAL ID to:
- Drive
- Vote
- Access hospitals or post offices
- Use federal benefits (like Social Security)
- Prove your age for most everyday tasks (e.g., buying alcohol)
You will need a REAL ID (or passport) to:
- Fly domestically starting May 7, 2025
- Enter secure federal buildings with ID screening
If you don’t travel or already use a passport for flying, you may not need a REAL ID at all. Illinois offers an online quiz to help you decide if you need one.
REAL ID vs. Standard License: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | REAL ID | Standard License |
| Accepted at TSA for flights | Yes | No |
| Can be used to drive | Yes | Yes |
| Can be used as everyday ID | Yes | Yes |
| Requires extra documentation | Yes | No |
| Available to undocumented residents | No | Yes |
What Documents Do You Need for a REAL ID?
To apply for a REAL ID in Illinois, bring the following:
- 1 proof of identity (U.S. passport, birth certificate, or immigration documents)
- 1 proof of Social Security number (SSN card, W-2, or 1099 form)
- 2 proofs of Illinois residency (e.g., utility bill, lease, bank statement)
- 1 proof of signature (current license, debit/credit card, or signed document)
All documents must be originals or certified copies—no photocopies or screenshots.
How to Apply for a REAL ID
- Decide if you need one: Only get a REAL ID if you plan to fly or enter federal buildings regularly.
- Gather your documents: Use the Illinois Secretary of State’s checklist to prepare.
- Visit a DMV in person: Appointments are encouraged. Some locations, like the Chicago Real ID Supercenter, accept walk-ins.
- Submit your application: DMV staff will review your documents and take your photo.
- Receive a temporary license: You’ll get a paper ID valid for 90 days and keep your old ID with a hole punch.
- Wait for your license by mail: Your REAL ID will arrive in 10–15 business days.
How Much Does a REAL ID Cost?
- REAL ID cost: $30 (same as a standard license)
- Duplicate fee (if not renewing): $5
- State ID (non-driver): $20
- Discounts available: Seniors, veterans, and certain income-qualified residents may qualify for reduced or waived fees
There’s no surcharge for getting the gold star version. If you apply early (before your renewal date), you just pay the duplicate fee.
What to Expect at the DMV
- Be prepared for longer lines as the May 2025 deadline approaches
- You will not receive your plastic license on the same day
- A temporary paper license (valid for driving and ID) is issued on-site
- Your final license will arrive by mail in about two weeks
- Bring your hole-punched old ID with you when flying until the new one arrives
Can Undocumented Residents Still Get a License?
Yes. As of July 1, 2024, Illinois now allows non-citizens—including undocumented immigrants—to obtain a standard driver’s license without a Social Security number.
These licenses:
- Are valid for driving and everyday identification
- Say “Federal Limits Apply”
- Are not accepted for air travel or federal building entry
- Are valid for 4 years and renewable
The old TVDL program has ended. All residents now receive a standard Class D license with or without REAL ID.
Should You Get a REAL ID or Just Use a Passport?
If you already have a valid U.S. passport and don’t mind bringing it to the airport, you may not need a REAL ID.
However, a REAL ID is convenient if you want to use your license to fly within the U.S. without carrying a passport.
Either option will work after May 7, 2025—you just need one or the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a REAL ID and a passport?
A: No. One or the other is enough for flying domestically. REAL ID is easier for travel within the U.S., while a passport is required for international travel.
Q: How long does it take to get a REAL ID?
A: You’ll get a temporary paper license at the DMV, and the REAL ID card will be mailed in about 10–15 business days.
Q: What happens if I don’t get a REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
A: You won’t be able to fly domestically with just your driver’s license. You’ll need to show a valid passport or another TSA-approved ID.
Q: Can I use my temporary license to fly?
A: Yes, but only with your hole-punched old license. TSA requires both the paper temp and the voided old ID.
Q: Is the REAL ID process the same for everyone?
A: Mostly yes, but undocumented residents and those without an SSN can only get a standard license marked “Federal Limits Apply.”
Q: Will I need to bring all these documents again next time I renew?
A: Not always, but if you renew in person after several years or if federal rules change, you may be asked to reverify your information.
Need Help or Car Insurance for Your New Illinois License?
Call Insure On The Spot at 773-202-5060 or get a free quote online in just 2 minutes. We help Illinois drivers with all license types—including standard, REAL ID, and new non-SSN licenses—get affordable, legal auto insurance.
Whether you’re upgrading your ID, buying a car, or need SR-22 coverage, we’re here to help you drive with confidence.