What’s the Deadline to Get Your Illinois Real ID? Do It or Else
In case you didn't know, there is a deadline approaching in Illinois for you to get your Real ID. That day on the calendar will happen sooner than you think and it's something you need to do - or else.
I know there are reasons for rules, but that doesn't mean I have to like them. The Real ID in Illinois is a great example. I completely understand the need for greater security and protection against identity theft, etc. But, this is one human identification method that I think could be done differently. Please forgive me for having an opinion.
It doesn't matter what I think. The feds have a deadline for getting your Real ID in Illinois and there is some good news. It was going to be in 2024, but the "system" is giving everyone more time to get compliant.
What is the Illinois deadline now for getting a Real ID?
The state of Illinois website offered this consolation about getting the Real ID thing done:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security extended the REAL ID deadline an additional year to May 7, 2025. Current Illinois driver's licenses or ID cards will continue to be accepted at airports, military bases and secure federal facilities until May 7, 2025
You just got a year grace period. Congrats.
What is a Real ID and why do you need it?
Great question. The Department of Homeland Security says that you'll need the Real ID to do one of the following 3 things:
- Accessing certain federal facilities
- Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
- Entering nuclear power plants
I wasn't planning to do at least 2 of those 3 things. Does that count for something?
Here's my concern. I don't want my information in a federal database so they can go all Minority Report on me. (obscure Tom Cruise movie reference) Forbes reported that the feds claim there will be no centralized database. Yeah, right.
Check out the Illinois Real ID website for more information about how the government will want to control you further provide you with the identification you need.
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