Illinois Driver’s License Requirements

How to Apply for an Illinois Driver’s License

If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll need to prove your identity, birth date, Social Security number, and that you’re an Illinois resident. You’ll also need to take a vision test, a written exam, and a road test.

Once you pass and pay the fee, you’ll receive a temporary paper license that’s good for 90 days. Your permanent plastic card shows up in the mail within two weeks.

If you’re under 18, get your instruction permit first and hold it for at least nine months before you can test for your full license.

Required Identification Documents by Group

Illinois requires documents from four categories. Here’s what each group covers and which documents work:

• Group A (Signature). Most people use their passport, Social Security card, or current out-of-state license.
• Group B (Birth Date). Birth certificates are most common, but you can also bring your U.S. or foreign passport. If you’re using a foreign birth certificate, you’ll need to bring another Group B document alongside it.
• Group C (Social Security Number). Bring your actual Social Security card issued by the Social Security Administration.
• Group D (Illinois Residency). You’ll need two documents for proof of residency. Utility bills dated within 90 days, bank statements, pay stubs, lease agreements, vehicle registration, or official government mail showing your address all work.

How to Renew Your Illinois Driver’s License

The Secretary of State typically mails you a renewal notice 60-90 days before your license expires. You’ll need one Group A document to verify your signature. If you’ve changed address, make sure to bring two Group D documents showing where you live now.

The driver’s license renewal fee in Illinois is $30 if you’re between 21 and 68, and that license lasts four years. Drivers aged 81-86 pay $5 for a two-year renewal. For ages 87 and older, you pay $10 but must renew annually.

And if you’ve kept a clean driving record for the past four years, you can renew online or by phone instead of visiting a facility in person. Your renewal notice will tell you if you’re eligible.

How to Get a Duplicate or Corrected Driver’s License

Lost your license? You can request a duplicate Illinois driver’s license if your original was lost, stolen, or mutilated. The fee for a duplicate license is $5.

You’ll need a corrected license if your name changes from marriage or divorce, or if you’ve moved. Bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order plus one Group A document. You must surrender your old license and pay a $5 fee for the corrected driver’s license.

You can obtain a duplicate or corrected license in person from an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility.

Temporary Driver’s License and Permanent Card Process

Secretary of State facilities can issue temporary paper licenses immediately (valid for 90 days).

While your temporary paper license is valid for driving, it won’t work as ID at most places.

If your permanent card doesn’t arrive within 15 business days, call (217) 782-7044.

If your permanent license still hasn’t shown up after 90 days, you’re driving without a license, which is illegal, even when it’s not your fault. Get to a facility before those 90 days run out.

Unacceptable Documents for an Illinois Driver’s License

The Secretary of State will reject certain documents that people may try to use as proof of identity or residency. Unacceptable documents include traffic tickets, insurance cards, fishing licenses, library cards, and club memberships. And personal mail from friends or family isn’t proof of residency either.

Always bring originals or certified copies with official seals. Photocopies are automatically rejected.