Politics
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias on Real IDs, the Future of Digital Driver’s Licenses
After being extended multiple times, the deadline for needing a Real ID to travel domestically is finally approaching.
Some parts of the country, like southern Florida, have actually seen people camping overnight in DMV parking lots to ensure they get an appointment for a Real ID. Though nothing like that has happened in Illinois, a surging demand has led to longer lines at the DMV.
But not everyone needs a Real ID. Who does and how can you make the process as quick and painless as possible?
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias joined “Chicago Tonight” to discuss the approaching deadline and rollout of the Real ID.
What you need to know about Real ID:
“Most likely, folks do not need a Real ID. If you have a passport, you can still travel,” Giannoulias said. “The other point we’re trying to make is that even after May 7, we will continue to issue Real IDs. … The other issue that we’re seeing, because of the new administration in Washington, D.C., we’re seeing a tremendous uptick in people worried that if they don’t have a Real ID they don’t have a proper form of identification. They’re worried, falsely, that they’ll be deported. … That is not the case.”
Read More: Select Chicago-Area DMV Facilities Will Open Saturdays to Meet ‘Unprecedented Demand’ for Real IDs
Mobile driver’s licenses may soon be available:
“Digital driver’s licenses are already happening in other states,” Giannoulias said. “Our goal is to get them done before the end of the year. Let’s be honest. The whole world is moving that way. If you go to a Bulls game or the movies, your ticket’s normally on your phone. … We’ve signed a contract with Apple to include driver’s licenses on Apple Wallets.”
On his political aspirations:
“We’ve been able to create an efficient office and modernize it but also create an ambitious legislative agenda. I’m proud of the work we’ve done. I remain focused, halfway through my term, on really being a great secretary of state.”
