What you need to know about Chicago driver licenses for immigrants
Illinois allows you to get a driver's license without a Social Security number, which means immigration status does not automatically disqualify you. The state issues what it calls an REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a standard license depending on what documents you bring. Both let you drive legally in Illinois and use the license for everyday purposes like banking or renting an apartment.
The main difference is that a REAL ID license requires proof of lawful presence in the United States — a green card, work permit, visa, or similar document — while a standard license does not. If you cannot show lawful presence, you can still get a standard license, but you cannot use it for federal purposes like boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building.
You will go to a Secretary of State facility in Chicago to explore in person. The process takes about an hour, and you will take a written test, an eye exam, and a driving test (unless you already have a valid license from another state or country).
Key Takeaways
- You can get a driver's license in Illinois without a Social Security number if you bring a passport or other government-issued ID and proof of your Chicago address.
- A REAL ID license requires proof of lawful presence, but a standard license does not — both are legal for driving in Illinois.
- You must visit a Secretary of State facility in person, bring original documents (not copies), and pass a written test, eye exam, and driving test.
- The fee is $30 for a standard license or $32 for a REAL ID license, and the license is valid for four years.
Documents you will need to bring
Bring your original documents — the Secretary of State will not accept copies. You need proof of identity, proof of your Chicago address, and proof of your Social Security number status (or a statement that you do not have one).
For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, national ID card, or visa. If your passport or ID is in another language, bring it along with an official English translation. For proof of your Chicago address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it — it must be dated within the last 60 days.
If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a tax return showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can sign a statement at the Secretary of State office saying so — you do not need to bring anything for this. If you are explore for a REAL ID license, also bring your work permit, green card, visa, or other proof of lawful presence.
Where to go and how to schedule
Chicago has several Secretary of State driver services facilities. The main downtown location is at 17 North State Street, and there are also facilities on the North Side, South Side, and West Side. You can find the full list and hours on the Illinois Secretary of State website.
You do not need an appointment to explore for a driver's license, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Going early in the morning or on a weekday usually means a shorter wait. Some facilities are busier than others — calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose when to go.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 35 questions about Illinois traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test is available in English and in several other languages, including Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and Arabic — tell the staff which language you need when you arrive.
You can study for the test using the Illinois Driver's Manual, which is free and available online in multiple languages on the Secretary of State website. The manual covers everything the test asks about: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies. Many people study the manual for a few hours before taking the test and pass on their first try.
The eye exam and driving test
The eye exam at the Secretary of State facility checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the eye exam, you will not be able to get a license until you have your vision corrected.
The driving test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. A state examiner will sit in the car with you while you drive on local streets. They will ask you to do things like park, turn, stop at a red light, and merge into traffic. They are looking for safe driving, not perfect driving — minor mistakes are normal, but serious ones like running a red light or hitting a curb will result in failing. If you fail, you can retake the test, usually within a few days.
Cost and how long the license lasts
A standard driver's license costs $30 and is valid for four years. A REAL ID license costs $32 and is also valid for four years. You pay at the Secretary of State facility when you explore. They accept cash and card.
When your license expires, you can renew it by mail or online if you have not had any changes to your address, name, or vision. If you have moved or your circumstances have changed, you will need to go back to the Secretary of State office in person.
If you already have a valid license from another country
If you have a current, valid driver's license from another country, you may not need to take the driving test again. Bring your foreign license to the Secretary of State along with all the other documents listed above. The staff will tell you whether you can skip the driving test or whether you still need to take it.
You will still need to take the written test and pass the eye exam, even if your foreign license is valid. This is true whether your license is from another country or from another U.S. state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can sign a statement at the Secretary of State office saying you do not have a Social Security number. Bring your passport or national ID and proof of your Chicago address, and you can get a standard driver's license. You will not be able to get a REAL ID license without proof of lawful presence.
What if my passport or ID is expired?
An expired passport or national ID can still be used as proof of identity for a driver's license. The Secretary of State accepts expired documents as long as they are genuine. Bring it along with your other documents.
How long does it take to get the license after I pass the test?
The Secretary of State will give you a temporary paper license on the day you pass the test. Your permanent plastic license will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the permanent one.
Can I take the written test in my native language?
Yes. The written test is available in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Arabic, and several other languages. Tell the staff which language you need when you arrive at the Secretary of State facility.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test, usually within a few days. There is no extra fee for retaking it. You do not need to retake the written test or eye exam — only the driving test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.