Cook County, State Partner to Help Residents Prepare for REAL ID Requirements

Beginning Feb. 1, the Transportation Security Administration will impose a $45 charge on travelers who reach airport security checkpoints without federally compliant identification. In response, Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced new customer-service measures designed to streamline access to birth certificates, marriage certificates and other vital records essential for obtaining a REAL ID.

“This is government at its best – agencies working together so residents aren’t caught off-guard at the airport or scrambling for documents at the last minute,” Gordon said during a joint press conference with Giannoulias. “By teaming up with the Secretary of State, we’re expanding options and streamlining the process, so Cook County residents can get their REAL ID documents quickly and conveniently.”

The Clerk’s Office unveiled several new initiatives:

• Designated REAL ID cashiers at all downtown and suburban locations to handle REAL-ID-related requests.

• An updated appointment and queuing system, including a new “REAL ID Appointment” option at cookcountyclerk.com/vitals.

• Walk-in support for residents without appointments, including QR codes to schedule visits on the spot.

• On-site assistance with laptops for customers who lack internet or smartphone access.

• Dedicated phone and email support, offering REAL-ID-specific guidance.

Residents can call the REAL ID help line at 312-603-6278 or email Clerk.RealID@cookcountyclerkil.gov for assistance.

Gordon also reminded residents that all Clerk’s Office vital-records locations provide same-day service, and that in-person visits remain the fastest option for those traveling soon.

The changes come as Illinois prepares for heightened federal identification requirements at airports nationwide.