Illinois Residents Will Not Need New Federal ID at Airports; Yet

On Friday, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced there will be no security changes at airports for at least two years, with any changes beginning no sooner than January 22, 2018, said Henry Haupt, spokesman for Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White.

Alaska is now one of about two dozen states that don’t comply with with federal regulations regarding the Real ID Act.

DHS is enforcing the legislation in stages, and is now only requiring the enhanced IDs for access to military bases, most federal facilities and nuclear plants.

Under current guidelines, all state-issued licenses and identification cards (see full list at TSA.gov) are accepted at airport checkpoints.

“I urge state government leaders to take immediate action to comply with the REAL ID Act, to ensure the continued ability of their residents to fly unimpeded”.

The legislation has faced opposition from both Democrats and Republicans due to privacy and cost concerns, and fears that it represents the first step toward a national ID system.

In a blog post Friday, the Washington Department of Licensing called the announced deadline “good news for travelers in our state who were concerned REAL ID enforcement would impact upcoming travel plans”.

IL does have anti-forgery features built into its licenses and will be offering a new version in 2016, but it is short of other requirements the Real ID Act demands.

If the state isn’t in compliance, travelers and anyone entering a federal building, would be required to show alternate identification, like a passport, to enter or board a commercial airline.

In July, 2016 TSA will get involved in the outreach and education program, with on-line advisories about REAL ID and, starting in December, 2016, with signs and handouts at airport checkpoints. Some require federal IDs or on-spot screening, whereas others are still accepting driver’s licenses.

“Striking the correct balance between security and convenience is not and should not be a zero-sum policymaking game”, said Grella.

The Real ID ACT is not entirely accepted by the states.