Illinois · Written examDo you need a REAL ID?
A standard Illinois card was accepted at airports until May 7, 2025. The handbook sets out the choice like this:
| What you use it for | Standard | REAL ID |
|---|---|---|
| Driving (license only) | Yes | Yes |
| Showing who you are | Yes | Yes |
| Boarding a domestic flight | No | Yes |
| Military base or secure federal site | No | Yes |
You don’t need a REAL ID if you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, or if you don’t fly within the U.S., visit military bases or enter secure federal facilities. The SOS REAL ID line is 833-503-4074.
Documents for your first Illinois state ID
For a standard card, you prove your date of birth, Social Security number, residency (one document) and signature. A first REAL ID, even if you hold a standard card, also needs proof of identity, including U.S. citizenship or lawful status, and two residency documents.
The documents come from the four groups in the handbook’s Acceptable Identification Documents chart, and one document may cover more than one group. They must be valid and within their time limits, and photocopies aren’t accepted. If your documents show a different name, such as a birth name, bring proof of the change, like a certified marriage certificate.
Documents the SOS won’t accept
The chart lists these, among others, as unacceptable:
- An instruction permit or its receipt
- An insurance card or vehicle registration
- A college or university ID card
- An international driving permit
- A library card, business card or club card
- A hunting or fishing license
- Personal mail
- A concealed carry card
How much is an Illinois state ID?
The handbook’s fees for ID cards:
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| State ID card under 18 | $5 |
| State ID card, ages 18 to 64 | $20 |
| State ID, 65 and older | Free |
| State ID, persons with disabilities | Free |
| Duplicate, ages 18 to 64 | $20 |
| Corrected card, ages 18 to 64 | $10 |
| Duplicate or corrected, under 18 | $5 |
A duplicate is free with a police report showing the card was stolen, or if you’re 60 or older and it was lost or stolen. A card for a person with a disability needs the Application for an Illinois Person with a Disability Identification Card, completed and signed by a medical professional.
When does your Illinois ID card arrive?
When you’re done at the facility, you get a temporary, secure paper card valid for 90 days. Once your documents are checked, the permanent card is printed centrally and mailed to you, usually within 15 business days.
The post office won’t deliver it if your address has a forwarding order or a mail hold. If it hasn’t come after 15 business days, check its status on ilsos.gov or call 217-782-7044.
Renewing an ID
If you’re 22 to 64, you can renew a valid ID card online. Cards for people 65 and older are free and don’t expire.
Sources: Illinois Secretary of State. Checked November 2026.
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.
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