It was announced on Wednesday by the Illinois Secretary of State, that Illinoisans can now start applying for a REAL ID.

The REAL ID meets the federal mandates that allow people to board domestic airplanes because our current driver's licenses don't meet the requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security.

This could also make state ID's invalid at federal facilities.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White has said that his office is working to change the security features and design on the Driver's Licenses/ID, as well as the process to meet full compliances with the REAL ID as mandated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Why would you need a REAL ID?

One document proving identity (examples: a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form).
IMPORTANT: Name change documents, such as a marriage certificate, will be required if the applicant’s current name is different than the name that appears on the document used to prove identity (example: birth certificate).
One document proving Social Security Number (SSN) (examples: an SSN card, a W-2 or a pay stub with full SSN).
Two documents proving residency with the applicant’s correct name and address (examples: a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title or bank statement).
One document proving signature (examples: a credit/debit card, a canceled check or a current Illinois DL/ID).

[mystateline.com]