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What’s the Difference Between a REAL ID and an Illinois Drivers License? Here’s a Breakdown

Soon, Illinois and U.S. residents will not be able to use an ordinary state ID or driver’s license in order to fly domestically. Buy Real Drivers License online

Beginning May 3, 2023, anyone 18 years old and above will be required to present either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in order to fly domestically, among other things.

Designated by a star and surrounding gold circle, REAL IDs are being issued in all 50 states and has stronger security standards than a simple driver’s license.

According to the Department of Homeland Services, the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, “establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.” Buy Real Drivers License online

REAL IDs, the DHS says, will specifically be needed for the following purposes:

  • Accessing certain federal facilities, like TSA security checkpoints
  • Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, or flying domestically
  • Entering nuclear power plants

To apply for a REAL ID, Illinois residents must visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and provide documents that prove their identity, their Social Security number, a written signature and two documents that show proof of residency.

The following are acceptable documents to prove identity:

  • Birth certificate
  • U.S. passport
  • Foreign passport with U.S. visa affixed with approved Form I-94 document
  • Consular Report of Birth Abroad
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Employment Authorization Document
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • REAL ID

To provide proof of their Social Security number, residents can show their Social Security card or a W-2. A pay stub with a Social Security number on it will also be accepted.