SPRINGFIELD - The state is considering a program that would require many Illinoisans to get and carry a special identification card - separate from their driver's licenses - in order to get on airplanes.

Secretary of State Jesse White's office came up with the plan in order to address the federal Real ID Act, which requires most Americans to carry the special IDs by 2014 if they want to fly or enter federal buildings.

It was widely thought states would update their driver's licenses to meet new federal standards. But White's plan to instead offer the federal card separately could be a first among states.

White's office says requiring two ID cards would save the state money and essentially make participation in the program optional - people who feel like they don't need one won't have to get one.

"Now, it's a completely voluntary process," said White spokesman Henry Haupt.

The purpose of the Real ID program is to strengthen national security, and supporters often point out some of the 9/11 hijackers held valid driver's licenses.

The new rules mean ID cards must have security measures, including markings that can only be detected under ultraviolet light and other characteristics that can only be detected by a chemist.

The federal rules also require upgraded security measures for the facilities that hand out the new cards. Haupt says upgrading all the driver's license offices in Illinois would be costly.

So some of the state's projected money-savings comes from a plan to open a dozen or so special Real ID facilities across the state by 2010, when states have to begin complying with federal law.

People would have to drive there and fill out relevant paperwork to get their cards.

State Rep. Al Riley, D-Olympia Fields, attended a recent hearing where White's staff unveiled their plan. Riley said he doesn't like the idea of Real ID in general but hopes that if it takes effect, enough new facilities would open to spare people long drives.

"It certainly would not add to one's convenience," Riley said.

Originally, White's office estimated the federal plan would cost the state $150 million over five years. The two-ID system would cut that amount to $100 million, they estimate. Haupt said a decision over whether to charge a fee for the new card hasn't yet been made.

White's office said the federal government has given a verbal OK for the two-ID system, but they're awaiting written approval before officially moving forward. A Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman didn't return a request for comment.

At least part of White's proposal needs approval by state lawmakers, who haven't shown much interest in the program. Just last year, the House and Senate both approved a non-binding rebuke of the Real ID Act, asking Congress to repeal it.

"That is the only official word we have from the General Assembly," said Nathan Maddox, a senior legal adviser for White.

The American Civil Liberties Union has opposed the federal ID rules because of privacy concerns, but a spokesman for its Illinois branch said White's latest idea could perhaps address some of them.

"I think it's an interesting idea," spokesman Ed Yohnka said.

Yohnka argued, though, that the program itself isn't worthwhile if states are allowed to make it optional.

"So what's left of this federal effort if this is what they come down to?" he said.

mike.riopell@lee.net

(217) 789-0865