Need an Illinois driver's license or REAL ID? You can get one without an appointment here

The opportunity to skip the DMV won't last long though

By NBC Chicago Staff • Published February 7, 2024 • Updated on February 7, 2024 at 1:38 pm

NBC Universal, Inc.

Editor's Note: The video in this story is from a previous report.

There are plenty of reasons to head to the 2024 Chicago Auto Show, which begins this weekend -- but one of them may be something you hadn't considered.

According to an announcement from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, the Secretary of State's Office will be on-hand at the two-week event beginning Friday, providing variety of services -- from Illinois driver's license renewals to applying for a REAL ID.

"Attendees can attain various driver services, including applying for a REAL ID, a new driver’s license, a new state ID or renewing a license/ID/Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL)," the announcement said, referring to the Secretary of State booth at the auto show. "They can also apply for a new license plate using Pick-A-Plate or renew their vehicle registration. Additionally, attendees will have an opportunity to sign up to join the Illinois Organ/Tissue Donation Registry."

Although visitors can visit the booth for some services in lieu of visiting a DMV, drivers will still need to provide the correct documents needed for services they are seeking.

What documents are needed for a REAL ID?

According to the Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will require a REAL ID or valid passport to travel domestically beginning May 7, 2025.