For the first time ever at the Chicago Auto Show, Illinois residents will be able to obtain a REAL ID at the Secretary of State’s booth, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced. Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDLs) renewals will also be offered.
“I am pleased to provide automobile enthusiasts the opportunity to apply for a REAL ID while attending this wonderful auto show,” said Secretary Giannoulias. “I’m excited to offer TVDL renewals for the first time as well.”
First-time TVDL applicants and applicants for REAL ID or standard driver’s licenses who must take a written or road exam are not eligible for this service because these exams are not offered at the show.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will require a REAL ID or valid passport for domestic air travel beginning May 7, 2025. To date, more than 3.1 million REAL IDs have been issued. There are approximately 9 million drivers in Illinois.
DHS requires first-time REAL ID applicants to apply in person. Not everyone needs a REAL ID, and in Illinois, the Secretary of State’s office gives residents a choice. Illinoisans who do not fly domestically do not necessarily need a REAL ID. Additionally, a valid U.S. passport is a compliant REAL ID document; therefore, those with valid U.S. passports do not necessarily need a REAL ID.
REAL ID applicants must present original documentation including:
Proof of identification – U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport
- Proof of Social Security Number (SSN) – Social Security card or W-2 with full SSN displayed
- Proof of residency – Two residency documents issued within the past three months, such as a bank statement, canceled check, or utility or cable bill
- Proof of written signature – Illinois driver’s license or ID card, mortgage or loan document, or credit card
A complete list of acceptable documents is available at realid.ilsos.gov.
TVDL applicants who are renewing their TVDL at the auto show must present:
- Current TVDL
- Any name or address change documents
Individuals applying for TVDL for the first time must visit a Driver Services facility and present the following original documentation:
- Proof of identification – Name and date of birth, such as a valid passport with expiration date or consular card (matricula)
- Proof of one year residency – 12-month residency required (one document must be dated at least one year ago, such as a bank account or a bill)
- Proof of current residency – One document dated within the last 90 days, such as a bill at current address
Secretary Giannoulias noted that more than 331,000 TVDLs have been issued statewide.
The Secretary of State’s booth will be at the show from February 11 to February 19 and open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. On February 20, the booth will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Other services at the booth include:
- Obtaining a standard driver’s license or ID card
- Renewing a vehicle registration
- Obtaining a driving record
- Registering to vote or to become an organ and tissue donor
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