Where to Get a Replacement License and What You'll Need
You can get a replacement Illinois driver's license at any Secretary of State driver services facility. The state operates facilities in Chicago, Springfield, and dozens of other cities across Illinois. You can find the location nearest you and check current wait times on the Secretary of State website.
Bring your current license if you still have it, or a state ID card. If you've lost both, bring a passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued photo ID. You'll also need proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The Secretary of State accepts documents in your name or a spouse's name if you live at the same address.
The replacement fee is $30 for a standard license valid for four years, or $60 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the facility. If you're replacing a license that was suspended or revoked, you may face additional fees or requirements depending on why it was suspended.
Key Takeaways
- Visit any Secretary of State driver services facility with your current ID and proof of address to get a replacement license on the same day.
- The replacement fee is $30 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license, payable by cash or card at the facility.
- If you've lost your ID entirely, bring a passport, birth certificate, or other government photo ID instead of your driver's license.
- Wait times vary by location and time of day, so check the Secretary of State website before you go to avoid a long visit.
Same-Day Replacement at the Facility
Illinois issues replacement licenses on the spot at driver services facilities. You don't need to mail anything in or wait for a document to arrive. Walk in with your documents, pay the fee, have your photo taken, and you'll receive your new license before you leave.
The photo taken at the facility becomes your new license photo. Wear something you're comfortable being photographed in. You cannot bring your own photo or use a photo from a previous license.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen License
If your license was lost or stolen, you still follow the same process — bring ID and proof of address to any driver services facility. You don't need to file a police report first, though you may want to if the license was stolen, since a stolen ID can be used for fraud.
If you're concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at the same time. This is separate from replacing your license but protects your credit if someone tries to open accounts in your name.
Replacing a Damaged or Unreadable License
Bring your damaged license to any driver services facility along with proof of address. The staff will assess whether the license is damaged enough to warrant replacement. Faded photos, cracked cards, or illegible text usually may have access to. Minor wear does not.
If the facility determines your license doesn't meet the damage threshold, you'll be told at that time and won't be charged. If it does may have access to, you pay the replacement fee and receive a new license the same day.
Replacing an Expired License
An expired license is treated as a replacement, not a renewal. Bring your expired license, proof of address, and payment to any driver services facility. You'll receive a new license the same day.
If your license has been expired for more than a year, the Secretary of State may require you to pass a vision test before issuing a replacement. Bring glasses or contacts if you use them. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license was suspended or revoked.
What Happens If You Don't Have Proof of Address
If you can't bring a utility bill or other document in your name, the Secretary of State accepts documents in a spouse's name if you provide a marriage certificate and both of you are present. Some facilities also accept documents from a parent or guardian if you're under 18.
If none of those options work, call the driver services facility you plan to visit and ask what alternative documents they accept. Some locations have flexibility for people experiencing homelessness or living in temporary housing. The Secretary of State website lists phone numbers for each facility.
Replacing Your License by Mail (Limited Cases)
Illinois does not offer mail-in replacement for lost or stolen licenses. You must visit a driver services facility in person. However, if you're unable to visit a facility due to a medical condition or disability, you can request an exception by contacting the Secretary of State's office directly.
Call the driver services customer service line at 217-782-6900 to ask about accommodations. Explain your situation and ask whether a mail-in replacement or home visit is possible. The state does not grant these requests routinely, but they are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license?
You receive your replacement license the same day you visit a driver services facility. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the location is. Check wait times on the Secretary of State website before you go.
Can I renew my license at the same time I replace it?
No. A replacement and a renewal are separate transactions. If your license is also expired, the replacement process handles both — you'll receive a new license with a new expiration date. You don't pay twice.
What if I need a replacement license before I can visit a facility?
The Secretary of State issues a temporary paper license at the facility while you wait for your photo ID to be printed. This temporary license is valid for driving and identification purposes for 30 days. If you need to drive before your visit, you can ask about this when you arrive.
Do I need an appointment to get a replacement license?
Appointments are not required, but you can schedule one online through the Secretary of State website to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted at all facilities, but appointment holders are usually seen first.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
Bring your current license and a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The replacement process will update your name on the new license. You pay the standard replacement fee.