REAL ID Days in PA and Efforts in IL

Ahead of the May 7 deadline for mandatory REAL ID compliance for domestic flights and entry to certain federal facilities, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is working to clarify requirements and reduce public confusion. He emphasized that while a REAL ID is not needed for driving, identification, or proof of citizenship, individuals without a U.S. passport may need it for air travel. Illinois has seen a surge in REAL ID applications, prompting efforts to increase appointment availability and staffing at DMV facilities. Similarly, Pennsylvania's Department of Transportation has introduced 'REAL ID Days' to accommodate rising demand, providing dedicated service hours at select centers. Both states aim to facilitate the transition and ensure residents are prepared for federal enforcement. Despite the push, a significant portion of the population still lacks REAL ID-compliant identification.