Illinois and Cook County officials are beefing up government services to help more residents obtain REAL IDs, and avoid a new $45 penalty that will be instituted next year for air travelers without the updated identification.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced Wednesday that his office has extended the lease at its Loop Supercenter site that offers walk-in REAL ID services at 191 N. Clark St.
State officials are partnering with Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon’s office to streamline processes to obtain birth certificates, marriage licenses and the other additional personal documents needed to get a REAL ID.
Clerk’s offices will have designated cashiers for REAL ID-related requests, as well as a new appointment system.
“Don’t wait — get your REAL ID today and avoid the expensive and unnecessary federal upcharge,” Giannoulias said.
Earlier this week, the Transportation Security Administration announced $45 fees starting Feb. 1, 2026, for travelers without REAL IDs. They’ve been required since May but most travelers without them have only faced additional screenings and warnings.
The fees will be able to be paid online before arriving at the airport. Travelers can also pay online at the airport before entering the security line, but officials said the process may take up to 30 minutes.
Help from the clerk’s office is available at (312) 603-6278 or Clerk.RealID@cookcountyil.gov. The secretary of state’s help line is (800) 252-8980.
REAL IDs can be obtained at any DMV. Most in the Chicago area require an appointment, which can be made at ilsos.gov.
Contributing: Associated Press