Illinoisans Cannot Travel Anywhere Without This Detail On A Driver’s License

You really need to check your license.

In years past, maybe you've let your driver's license expire (oops), maybe your picture (like mine) is the worst photograph you have ever taken in your life, there are all kinds of driver's license issues.

But starting May 7th, you won't be able to slack off anymore.

You'll Have To Have A Real ID

And that's from the Department of Homeland Security. If you don't get a real ID, you won't be permitted through the TSA checkpoints when you're flying even domestically. If you don't have a Real ID, you'll have to have your passport with you.

You'll have to have a Real ID to be able to do things like rent a car, buy tobacco, etc. Will you get in extreme trouble if you get pulled over without a Real ID after May 7th? I couldn't find definitive law from anywhere on that.

How Do I Know If I Have A Real ID?

Look in the top right corner of your driver's license. If you see any of these symbols, you're good to go.

Those are the signs of a Real ID. It's a national requirement to have a Real ID.

For Illinois specifically, to help curtail forever-long lines at the DMV locations, there is a Real ID portal that can help you out. There are also Real ID Saturdays that will be available at certain DMV locations to help with the demand for the ID's this spring.

Remember to get the Real ID's before you try to fly this summer, wherever you're going!