How to bid on the Idemia AutoTest Contract Increase for Real ID with IL Secretary of State

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) is planning a sole-source change order to increase an existing contract with Idemia. This increase is specifically for driver license printing services, to meet Real ID requirements. The value of this increase is $179,040.

While this is a sole-source notice, it is an opportunity for other vendors to understand the state's needs and potentially challenge the sole-source justification if they believe they can provide the required services competitively. This type of notice can also inform future bidding strategies for similar services.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The notice was published on July 30, 2026. The deadline for responses or questions is August 13, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. At this deadline, the Secretary of State will proceed with the planned change order unless a compelling reason is presented by another vendor to reconsider the sole-source justification.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is primarily for firms that specialize in secure document printing, particularly driver licenses or other government-issued identification, and have experience with Real ID requirements. While the agency intends a sole-source award, vendors who believe they can offer comparable services for driver license printing for Real ID requirements should review the justification.

The relevant category for this work is supplies, specifically related to printing and secure document production.

How to respond

To access the full documents and instructions, you need to go to BidBuy, the State of Illinois procurement portal. The solicitation number is 27-350SOS-ITSOS-B-53534. You can view the bid's detail page and listed documents without signing in.

If you wish to quote electronically, you must register a free vendor account on the BidBuy portal. Otherwise, follow the specific submission directions provided within the bid documents. All responses must be submitted before the August 13, 2026, 3:00 PM ET deadline. Questions should be directed to Dave Littrell at [email protected].

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even for a sole-source notice, if you intend to challenge it, your response should clearly demonstrate your firm's capability to meet or exceed the stated requirements. Focus on specific experience with Real ID compliance and secure printing technologies. Highlight any cost efficiencies or added value your firm can provide.

Ensure your submission is complete and addresses all points in the sole-source justification form, which you can find on BidBuy. Pay close attention to the submission instructions and deadlines to ensure your response is considered. Clearly articulate why your firm is a viable alternative to the proposed sole-source vendor.