Illinois

Everything Illinoisans need to know about the Real ID ahead of 2025 deadline

Published

2 years ago

June 13, 2024

Everything Illinoisans need to know about the Real ID ahead of 2025 deadline

In less than one year, Illinois residents 18 and older will be required to have a Real ID card in order to board planes and to enter certain federal facilities.

“I strongly encourage residents who intend to fly to get their REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid future headaches,” Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said in a news release. “Our DMV facilities stand readyto help customers get their new driver’s licenses and identification cards before the federal deadline.”

In charge of administering the licenses in the state is the Illinois secretary of state’s office, who said only 23.5% of Illinoisans had the license as of May.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Real ID.

When is the deadline to have a Real ID?

May 7, 2025, is the deadline set by the federal government to have the license created under the REAL ID Act in 2005 — a post-9/11 security measure.

Are Real ID’s mandatory?

No, if you have a valid passport, military ID or other federally approved identification, you don’t need a Real ID to board a plane or enter certain federal buildings.

How do I apply for the license?

Those applying for a REAL ID card first need to either make an appointment or walk-in to a secretary of state DMV facility. The SOS website shows what facilities require appointments.

More: ‘This is history’: Supporters urge Springfield Race Riot site to become national monument

What do I need to apply for a Real ID?

You will need to provide proof of your identity, your full Social Security number, signature and have two documents showing your current residency. A full checklist of requirements can also be found at the SOS website.

How much does a Real ID cost?

The fees for a Real ID are the same as a standard driver’s license/ID. More information can be found on the SOS website.

Who needs a REAL ID?

The Transportation Security Administration will not any accept identification besides the Real ID, meaning no passengers attempting to board planes without it will be permitted. It is also required to enter military bases or visit nuclear power plants, per the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Air travel and visiting these facilities will still be allowed if the individual can present a valid US passport, which is compliant with the REAL ID.

Do I need a Real ID to vote?

No. You don’t need a Real ID to vote or do any of the following:

Drive
Open a bank account
Apply for/receive federal benefits
Enter a federal facility that does not require IDs like a post office
Visit a hospital

Contact Patrick M. Keck: 312-549-9340, pkeck@gannett.com, twitter.com/@pkeckreporter.

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Illinois

Woman found dead near Schamburg, Illinois shopping center, man in custody

Published

3 hours ago

December 16, 2025

Press Room

Woman found dead near Schamburg, Illinois shopping center, man in custody

December 16, 2025 / 10:36 AM CST
/ CBS Chicago

A woman was found dead near a shopping center in Schaumburg, Illinois early Tuesday, and a man was taken into police custody.

Around 5:25 a.m., Schaumburg police were called to the 100 block of South Roselle Road. They found a woman dead at the scene.

Police said a man was taken into custody at the scene.

The investigation so far indicates that the incident was domestic, and the man and woman knew each other.

Police said the incident was isolated and there was no threat to the public. But there was a large police presence at the scene, and alternate routes were advised.

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Illinois

Illinois officials investigating death connected to Rock Co. homicide

Published

16 hours ago

December 16, 2025

Press Room

Illinois officials investigating death connected to Rock Co. homicide

PRINCETON, Ill. (WMTV) – The Illinois State Patrol is investigating a death after officials found a suspect’s vehicle wanted in connection to a Wisconsin homicide, Illinois State Police reported.

Just before 10 p.m. on December 10, ISP troopers and several other agencies attempted to pull a vehicle over in Princeton, Illinois, that was wanted in a Rock County homicide.

Officials did not specify which Rock Co. case this incident is connected to.

Princeton is about an hour and 45 minutes away from Rock County, Wisconsin.

After the driver did not pull over, police chased the vehicle into the Great Sauk Trail Rest Area on I-80 westbound.

When officers went up to the vehicle, authorities stated the driver was found dead with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Authorities did not identify the driver.

ISP is working with the Bureau County State’s Attorney’s Office in this investigation.

Click here to download the WMTV15 News app or our WMTV15 First Alert weather app.

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Illinois

Illinois Court of Claims goes digital with e-filing and remote hearings

Published

1 day ago

December 15, 2025

Press Room

Illinois Court of Claims goes digital with e-filing and remote hearings

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has announced a significant modernization initiative for the Illinois Court of Claims, introducing electronic filing options and remote hearings. This transition replaces the outdated paper-based system, which often delayed case processing and complicated access for claimants. “For too long, the state’s Court of Claims has been forced to rely on outdated, paper-driven processes that made filing a claim slower and more complicated,” Giannoulias said. “By making this a fully digital process, we’re making government more accessible, more transparent and more efficient for the people it serves.”

Starting today, all filings with the Court of Claims will be submitted through a new online e-filing portal. Users can create an account, follow step-by-step instructions, and submit their claims directly through the system. Training videos will be available to assist first-time users. The digital platform allows Illinoisans to manage their claims conveniently, track updates instantly, and receive real-time notifications as their case progresses. It also eliminates the need for mailing multiple paper copies and reduces administrative processing times.

The modernization initiative aligns with broader technology upgrades across the Secretary of State’s office and the Illinois court system. Enabled by HB 1576, sponsored by State Rep. Terra Costa Howard and State Sen. Michael Halpin, the measure authorizes remote hearings and allows the public to file claims, submit evidence, and pay fees online. The Illinois Court of Claims serves as the venue for individuals seeking financial compensation from the state in cases involving state responsibility, including injuries, property damage, and wrongful imprisonment. Improving access and efficiency is crucial for Illinoisans navigating these complex circumstances. Claimants with questions can contact the Court of Claims Clerk’s Office at ClerkofCoC@ilsos.gov or (217) 782-7101.

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