The state’s initiative to require Real IDs for air travel, delayed for 17 years, began on May 7, 2025. Passengers without enhanced identification or acceptable alternatives, like passports, could still board with additional security checks. At O’Hare International Airport, most travelers had compliant IDs and experienced minimal delays, but some, like Bonnie Kahn, faced issues with temporary paper IDs, leading to extra scrutiny.
While the Department of Homeland Security states that 81% of travelers meet the requirements, less than 50% of Illinois ID holders do. Despite the deadline, passengers can fly for two more years without a Real ID but will undergo random additional screening. The initiative traces back to post-9/11 recommendations meant to improve ID verification for air travel.
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office has expanded measures to distribute Real IDs and addressed long wait times at DMV locations. Current requirements still mandate Real IDs for domestic flights and access to federal buildings, identifiable by a gold star. Many travelers opted for passports as valid alternatives, highlighting mixed reactions and confusion surrounding the new rules.
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