By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is criticizing the federal government’s plan to offer travelers without proper identification the option of paying a fee.

The Transportation Security Administration announced Monday that, starting Feb. 1, 2026, it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID the option of paying a $45 fee to use an alternative identity verification system.

Giannoulias blasted the move at a press conference in Chicago on Wednesday.

“It’s not just a one-time cost. It’s a recurring penalty that places an unfair burden on Illinoisans who travel infrequently and who can least afford it,” the secretary said.

According to a TSA statement released Monday, the REAL ID law was signed more than 20 years ago, but previous presidential administrations failed to properly implement it.

“Under President [Donald] Trump’s leadership, the law was finally implemented and enforced by [Department of Homeland Security] Secretary Kristi Noem as of May 7, 2025,” the statement said.

According to the TSA statement, more than 94% of passengers already use their REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification.

TSA’s list of acceptable forms of ID can be found at TSA.gov.

Giannoulias said his office is making it easier for residents to get their REAL ID before the fee is implemented Feb. 1.

“First off, we’ve extended the lease on our first-in-the-nation REAL ID supercenter through the end of 2026 to provide faster, more convenient service for the sole purpose of helping folks get their REAL IDs, and, of course, we’re continuing to offer REAL ID services at DMVs throughout the state,” Giannoulias said.

The REAL ID super center is located in downtown Chicago. The state of Illinois charges $30 for a REAL ID or basic driver’s license.

Giannoulias said Wednesday his office has streamlined its REAL ID portal, realid.ilsos.gov and continues to provide a dedicated call center helpline at (800) 252-8980.

Last month, Giannoulias announced that Illinois had begun offering driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet.

Libertarian Party of Illinois Chairman Jim Humay said Giannoulias’ moves to streamline operations and offer digital IDs do not mean the agency will be smaller or more efficient.

“Are they going to reduce the size of the motor vehicle division? I haven’t heard any discussions along those lines,” Humay told The Center Square.