Illinois Locals Scramble for REAL ID Before Deadline, Causing Long DMV Queues, Even at Loop Super Center

CHICAGO (WLS) — The REAL ID deadline arrived Wednesday

if you’re planning to fly Wednesday or in the days ahead and still don’t have a REAL ID, there’s no need to panic.

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You’re still going to be able to fly, but you’re just going to have to likely stand in an additional line to show an alternative form of ID.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, you can show a passport, Military ID, Green Card or Global Entry Card in place of a REAL ID.

But starting Wednesday, the federal government is requiring everyone 18 and older to have a Real ID to enter federal buildings.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias was on hand Tuesday walking those long lines of people waiting to get an ID, trying to clear up any confusion.

He says Real IDs are always going to be issued even though Wednesday is the start of the enforcement date.

Unfortunately for Myriam Larson, she made it to the front doors of the Real ID Super Center just to see them close.

“I was standing in line for what felt like an eternity, and just as I was about to enter… they told me, no, I would have to wait until the next day,” said Larson.

City aviation officials are advising travelers to allow plenty of extra time to reach the airport on Wednesday, due to any potential delays linked with the new procedure.

READ ALSO | How long does it take to get a REAL ID?

Here are the requirements to apply for a REAL ID in Illinois:

1. A U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate, Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card, or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form is also acceptable. If you’ve changed your name, you will need to provide documentation for the name change.

2.Proof of a full Social Security number (SSN). Examples include: a Social Security card, a W-2 or a pay stub with your full SSN.

3.Two current residency documents that list your full name. Examples include: a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title or a bank statement.

4.Proof of your signature. Examples include: a signed credit or debit card, canceled check, or current state driver’s license or state ID.

Illinois has an interactive checklist to make sure applicants don’t forget anything. The checklist can be found here.