REAL ID Deadline Approaches: Enforcement Starts Wednesday; Expect Long Waits at Illinois DMV – Check the Requirements Here

CHICAGO (WLS) — The federal deadline to get a REAL ID is Wednesday.

All week, extensive lines have been forming around the block at the Real ID Supercenter located in the Loop. People are gathering hours before the facility opens, with the approaching deadline on Wednesday causing a surge in demand.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias emphasizes that the deadline of May 7 pertains only to airport enforcement. After Wednesday, individuals can still obtain a REAL ID without issue.

Giannoulias said if you’re not traveling soon after Wednesday you probably don’t need a REAL ID right away.

RELATED: Illinois Secretary of State Giannoulias expanding Saturday hours at DMVs as REAL ID deadline nears

He said with the large crowds right now, you may be better off waiting.

If you have a valid passport, military ID, Green Card, or Global Entry or you’re under the age of 18, you will not need a REAL ID to fly.

TSA says passengers without those documents or a REAL ID can expect delays, additional screenings and the possibility of missing their flights.

The Loop Supercenter opens at 7:30 a.m. Monday – Friday. Some DMV locations also have expanded hours on Saturday – to support the Real ID rush.

Real ID Saturdays and the REAL ID supercenter will remain open through the end of May to allow more people to get their IDs.

Congress passed the 2005 REAL ID Act in response to the threat of terrorism.

States have been working to meet the security requirement for driver’s licenses and identification cards they issue.

The Illinois secretary of state says approximately 35% of the state’s residents have a REAL ID.

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. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate, Report of Birth Abroad, or Certificate of Citizenship. Non-U.S. citizens can provide an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card, or a foreign passport with a valid I-94 form. If there has been a name change, relevant documentation must also be presented.

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.