Illinois launches digital ID program
ILLINOIS(KBSI) – If you live in Illinois forgetting your wallet at home may no longer be issue after November 19, 2025.
According to Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, Illinois has become the 12th state to incorporate the use of digital ID’s.
So, whether you’re purchasing a drink or checking into a venue, a digital ID will now get you through the door in the state of Illinois. According to State Secretary Giannoulias, this gives Illinoisans more privacy by allowing them to only show their age and no other information.
“Only the information needed for a transaction is presented, and you have the opportunity to review and authorize the information being requested with face ID or touch ID before it is shared” says State Secretary Giannoulias. “If a bar or concert venue only needs to confirm you’re over 21, that’s all they see. Not your address, not your license number, not even your birthdate”.
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias explained in a press conference that the digital ID can be pulled on a mobile device and be shown to the provider, but it is not required that you hand your phone over to anyone. Giannoulias says this decision comes as the state works to modernize government.
“Our goal has been simple” says Giannoulias, “Bring government into the 21st century and meet people where they are. Today, we take another major leap forward for Illinois driver’s license and state IDs and Apple Wallet is not just a new product. It’s a new way to think about identity, security, and convenience in your everyday life.”
As of today November 19, 2025, the digital ID is offered through Apple iPhone and can be used for bars, venues, or TSA airports in the state of Illinois. At this time, you will still need to use your regular id or license for law enforcement purposes. Not only is the switch to digital id designed to modernize, add privacy and enhance convenience but according to the Executive Director of the Illinois Liquor Control Commission Lisa Gardner, it will also cut down on counterfeited id’s.
“Mobile IDs enhance public safety by being much harder to counterfeit than physical IDs. This lowers the risk of fraudulent identification being used to illegally purchase alcohol, effectively preventing sales to minors and helping to safeguard communities and businesses” says Gardner.
The Illinois Secretary of State says they are currently working to offer the digital ID option on all google and android devices and expand how it can be used,
For more details and instructions on use: The Official Website for the Illinois Secretary of State
