McHenry Times

Illinois State House Representative for District 63, Steve Reick, emphasized the importance of obtaining a REAL ID by stating that the deadline to acquire one "will be here before you know it!" This statement was shared on his Facebook page on March 4.

"Not everyone needs a REAL ID," said Reick, State Representative, according to Facebook. "But if you do, the REAL ID deadline will be here before you know it!"

REAL ID is a form of identification that complies with standards set after the 9/11 Commission's recommendations for enhanced security measures. According to the Department of Homeland Security, these IDs are necessary for accessing federal facilities, boarding federally-regulated commercial aircraft, or entering nuclear power plants. Enforcement will begin on May 7, at which point only REAL ID-compliant identification cards or enhanced driver’s licenses from specific states will be accepted by federal agencies. However, REAL ID cannot be used for crossing borders into Canada or Mexico or for international cruises.

Screenshot of State Representative Steve Reick's March 4 Facebook post | State Representative Steve Reick Facebook page

According to the Illinois Secretary of State website, a REAL ID is not required for driving, voting, receiving state or federal services, or entering buildings that do not require an ID. Additionally, individuals under 18 do not need a REAL ID.

To obtain a REAL ID in Illinois, applicants must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles facility with appropriate identification forms. Required documents include proof of identity and birthdate (such as a certified birth certificate or valid U.S. passport), Social Security number verification (such as a Social Security card), and residency proof (such as a bank statement). Photocopies are not acceptable.

Reick is an Illinois native who graduated from Herscher High School and later attended the University of Illinois to earn a bachelor's degree in accountancy. He also holds a Juris Doctor and master's degree in accountancy and taxation from the University of Georgia. Elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 2016, he represents the 63rd House District.