Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White initiated legislation adding members of the National Guard and Reserve, who were never called to active duty, to qualify for the veteran’s designation on driver’s licenses and ID cards. It was approved Wednesday, May 11, 2016, by the Illinois House of Representatives.
The legislation, sponsored by State Sen. Pamela Althoff (R-McHenry) and State Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock), passed the Illinois Senate on Tuesday, April 12. The measure now moves to the Governor for consideration.
Senate Bill 2173 adds all National Guard and Reserve members to those U. S. military veterans that may get an updated driver’s license/ID card, with the word “VETERAN” displayed under the signature, on the front of the card. The previous law, which took effect July 1, 2015, omitted National Guard and Reserve personnel who honorably served in the Guard or Reserves, but whose units were not called to active duty during their service.
The veteran’s designation will help ensure military veterans in Illinois receive services and benefits, including healthcare, education, and employment assistance.
The process is simple.
- First, veterans must obtain official certification from the Illinois Department. of Veterans’ Affairs (IDVA.) They can do so by visiting one of the IDVA offices throughout the State and providing a copy of their DD-214 or Certification of Military Service (NA Form 13038.) For more information, veterans can contact the IDVA at 1-800-437-9824 or visit www.illinois.gov/veterans.
- After the necessary certification is obtained from an IDVA office, the veteran may apply for a new, renewal, or updated driver’s license or ID card, at any Secretary of State Driver Services facility.
The designation will be at no additional cost for first-time driver’s license applicants and driver’s license renewals. If veterans choose to add the designation before their renewal date, they may obtain an updated driver’s license for $5 and an updated ID card for $10.
Veterans over the age of 65 can obtain an updated state ID card at no cost.