Veterans Now Recognized on Illinois Driver’s Licenses

Veterans will now be recognized on Illinois Driver's Licenses.

A year ago, I wrote a story about my teacher and mentor, Rich Renik and others asking the people of Illinois to send support to Illinois politicians to honor Military Veterans on driver’s licenses.

After two long years, over 40 letters to Senators and Representatives, it has finally passed. It goes into effect today, July 1, 2015.

According to Rich Renik's Facebook Post:

The process is simple. First, veterans must obtain official certification from the Illinois Dept. of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA). They can do so by visiting one of the IDVA offices throughout the state and providing a copy of their DD-214 or Certification of Military Service (NA Form 13038). For more information, veterans may contact the IVDA at 1-800-437-9824 or visit www.illinois.gov/veterans. Secondly, after the necessary certification is obtained from an IDVA office, the veteran may apply for a new, renewal or updated driver’s license or ID card at any Secretary of State Driver Service’s facility.

 

This is absolutely fantastic news! Veterans will be recognized on both Illinois State ID cards or updated driver's license. The new license will resemble the Tennessee license where 'Veteran' is marked next to the photo.