The deadline for renewing driver's licenses in Illinois is approaching

The extended deadline for renewing driver's licenses is fast approaching for Illinois residents, with the last chance to get a new REAL ID identification.

In late March, Secretary of State Jesse White extended the expiration dates for driver's licenses and identification cards for an additional two months, until August 1st.

The extended deadline does not apply to commercial driver's licenses and CDL learner's permits (Commercial Learners Permit).

The pandemic also caused the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to postpone the REAL ID implementation deadline by one year.

White praised the DHS for extending the deadline, saying that airports will continue to accept current state driver's licenses and identification cards for the next two years.

To obtain a REAL ID, residents will need to visit an Illinois Secretary of State facility and provide documents proving their identity.

For proof of identity, a passport, a US birth certificate, an employment authorization document, or a permanent resident card will be accepted. Residents will also need to provide proof of their Social Security number.

A Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with the Social Security number is accepted.

Residency documentation will also be required, so residents will need to provide at least two proofs of residence. This may include a utility bill, a lease agreement, a title deed, or a bank statement.

Residents will have to provide proof of signature. A credit or debit card, a canceled check, or a current Illinois driver's license or state ID may be used as proof of signature.

After providing these documents, residents will receive a temporary paper identification at the facility, and the new REAL ID will be delivered by mail within 15 business days.

You can find more information here.

SOURCE: NBC 5 CHICAGO PHOTO: UNSPLASH