The Complete Illinois SOS Document Checklist (for a REAL ID)

One of the most common and frustrating experiences at an Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) Driver Services facility is waiting for your turn only to be sent away because of a missing or incorrect document. A failed trip wastes your time and delays your goal of getting on the road. The single best way to ensure a successful, one-visit appointment is to arrive fully prepared with all your paperwork in order.

This definitive checklist will ensure you have every document you need. We will focus on the requirements for obtaining a REAL ID, which is the standard, federally compliant license that all new applicants are encouraged to get.

What is a REAL ID and Why Do I Need One?

A REAL ID is a driver's license or ID card that meets the enhanced security standards set by the federal government. You can identify it by the gold star in a circle located in the upper-right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another federally approved document (like a U.S. passport) to board domestic flights and enter secure federal facilities.

Because it is a federal credential, the document requirements are very strict. All documents must be original or certified copies. The SOS will not accept photocopies or expired documents.

The Core Document Categories for an Illinois REAL ID

To get your REAL ID license or permit, you must provide documents that prove your identity, your Social Security number, your written signature, and your Illinois residency.

1. Proof of Identity (Bring ONE)

This is your primary identity document. It must be an original or a certified copy from the issuing agency.

Original or certified U.S. birth certificate (from a state, county, or U.S. territory vital statistics office; not a hospital certificate).
Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card.
Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.
Unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 form.
Valid, unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Card.

You must provide a document that shows your full, correct Social Security number (SSN).

Original Social Security card.
W-2 form.
1099 form.
Paystub from an employer showing your full name and full SSN.
If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must provide an official ineligibility letter from the Social Security Administration.

3. Proof of Illinois Residency (Bring TWO)

You must present two separate documents from two different sources to prove you live in Illinois. The documents must show your name and your current physical address. P.O. boxes are not acceptable.

Utility bill (gas, electric, water, cell phone, internet, cable, etc.) dated within the last 90 days.
Bank statement or credit card statement dated within the last 90 days.
Mortgage statement or rental/lease agreement.
Illinois motor vehicle registration card.
Official mail from a federal, state, or local government agency (e.g., IRS, Social Security, property tax bill).
Paystub or other official mail from an employer.
School transcript or report card.

Important: Both documents must come from different companies. For example, your ComEd bill and your Nicor Gas bill are acceptable. Two bills from the same utility are not.

4. Proof of Written Signature (Bring ONE)

You must also present one document that contains your written signature.

Valid, unexpired U.S. or foreign passport.
Current, valid driver's license or ID card from Illinois or another state.
Canceled check.
Credit or debit card.
Social Security card.

What If Your Name is Different?

If your current legal name does not match the name on your primary identity document (like your birth certificate), you must provide legal proof of the name change.

Original or certified marriage certificate.
Divorce decree that specifies the name change.
Court-ordered name change or adoption document.

Additional Forms for Minors (Under 18)

Proof of Driver's Education: Your completion certificate from an approved school.
50-Hour Driving Log: The completed log signed by your parent or guardian.
Parental Consent: Your parent or legal guardian must be present to give written consent.

Final Pre-Appointment Checklist

Before you head to your appointment, organize your documents in a folder and run through this final check:

[ ] Proof of Identity: Do you have ONE original or certified document?
[ ] Proof of SSN: Do you have ONE original document showing your full SSN?
[ ] Proof of Residency: Do you have TWO different documents with your address?
[ ] Proof of Signature: Do you have ONE document with your signature?
[ ] Name Change Documents? (If applicable, are they certified originals?)
[ ] Minor Forms? (Parent present, driver's ed and 50-hour log)
[ ] Payment: Do you have an accepted form of payment (cash, check, card) for the fees?

Taking 20 minutes to gather and double-check these documents is the best guarantee for a fast, successful, and stress-free trip to the Driver Services facility.