Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently announced the introduction of an enhanced driver’s license program in the state, providing residents with a secure and convenient form of identification for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has been working diligently to implement this new program, which is set to launch in early 2022.
The enhanced driver’s license, or REAL ID-compliant license, is part of a nationwide effort to enhance the security of driver’s licenses and identification cards. These enhanced licenses are designed to meet the strict federal standards set by the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, with the aim of improving the reliability and accuracy of these documents.
Under the REAL ID Act, individuals are required to present certain documents to prove their identity, date of birth, social security number, and residency status in order to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. For Illinois residents, this means providing documents such as a valid passport or birth certificate, social security card, and two proofs of Illinois residency, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
The enhanced driver’s license will feature a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it is REAL ID-compliant. This star signifies that the license holder has provided the necessary documentation to meet the federal requirements for identification. Residents who choose not to obtain an enhanced driver’s license will still be able to use their standard driver’s license for driving purposes, but they will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a passport or permanent resident card, for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities starting in October 2022.
The introduction of the enhanced driver’s license program in Illinois has been met with a positive response from residents who value the convenience and security that these licenses offer. With the ability to use their enhanced driver’s license for both driving and identification purposes, Illinois residents can streamline their identification needs and avoid the hassle of carrying multiple forms of identification.
In addition to the enhanced driver’s license, Illinois residents will also have the option to obtain a REAL ID-compliant identification card if they do not drive or prefer not to use their driver’s license for identification purposes. This identification card will also feature the star indicating its REAL ID compliance, allowing residents to easily distinguish between the standard and enhanced forms of identification.
The implementation of the enhanced driver’s license program in Illinois is a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to comply with the REAL ID Act and enhance the security of identification documents. With the launch of this program in early 2022, Illinois residents will have access to a secure and convenient form of identification that meets the federal standards for domestic air travel and entry into federal facilities.
Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Secretary of State’s office are committed to ensuring a smooth transition to the enhanced driver’s license program, with plans to provide residents with ample information and resources to assist them in obtaining their REAL ID-compliant licenses. Residents can visit the Secretary of State’s website for more information on the enhanced driver’s license requirements and the documents needed to apply for this secure form of identification.
Overall, the introduction of the enhanced driver’s license program in Illinois represents a significant step towards enhancing the security and reliability of state-issued identification. With the launch of this program in early 2022, Illinois residents can look forward to having a convenient and secure form of identification for both driving and identification purposes.
