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Giannoulias to Offer REAL IDs and Other Services at Chicago Auto Show

 

The Secretary of State’s office will offer driver, business and archive services, as well as a distracted driving simulator and a variety of photo opportunities at this year’s Chicago Auto Show, which kicks off February 9.

Attendees will be able to 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). They can also apply for a new license plate using Pick-A-Plate or renew their vehicle registration. Additionally, attendees are encouraged to sign up to join the Illinois Organ/Tissue Donation Registry.

Before arriving at the auto show with the intention of benefiting from one of these services, attendees are encouraged to visit ilsos.gov to determine what documents are required for the service they seek.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will require a REAL ID or valid passport for domestic air travel beginning May 7, 2025. Illinoisans who do not fly domestically do not necessarily need a REAL ID. A complete list of acceptable required documents is available at realid.ilsos.gov.

The office’s business services team will also be on hand to assist those wanting to start a business, file paperwork or look up an existing business. Genealogy searches will be available through the Illinois State Archives.

In partnership with the American Automobile Association (AAA), a driving simulator will offer participants a replication of the experience of driving distracted or impaired to encourage safe driving.

Fun photo opportunities for kids and adults will be provided, including a selfie station with a cutout of Secretary Giannoulias.

The Secretary of State’s booth will be open on February 9 for the First Look Gala through the last day of the auto show on February 19. The hours of the booth will generally be from 10 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. except for February 11, when it will close at 5:30 p.m. and February 19, when it will close at 7:45 p.m.

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