Flanked by TSA Illinois Federal Security Director Jim Spriggs (left), Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is launching his office’s “Get Real Illinois” campaign to encourage Illinoisans to obtain a REAL ID. The campaign will raise awareness about the May 7, 2025 deadline and encourage residents to apply early to avoid problems at airports and DMV facilities. After the deadline, domestic travelers age 18 and older on commercial flights must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card (travelers will still be able to board domestic flights with a valid U.S. passport, which is already REAL ID-compliant). REAL ID also will be required to enter some secure federal facilities such as courthouses and military bases. Residents may go online to realid.ilsos.gov to access an interactive checklist to make sure they have the documents they need before heading to a DMV. – Supplied photo