What documents you need to bring to the Illinois Secretary of State

To get a driver license in Chicago, you will go to a Secretary of State facility in Cook County. You need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — all three categories, not just one.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. For proof of residency, 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. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.

You will also need to fill out the process form (DL 101) before you arrive or when you get there. You can read it from the Secretary of State website or ask for it at the facility.

Key Takeaways

  • You need documents from three categories: identity (passport or birth certificate), residency (recent utility bill or lease), and Social Security proof (Social Security card or tax form).
  • Residency documents must be dated within the last 60 days, so an old bill will not work.
  • You must pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
  • Secretary of State facilities in Cook County have different hours; check online or call ahead to confirm when your nearest location is open.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

After you submit your documents, you will take a written test on Illinois traffic laws and road signs. The test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass. You can study using the Illinois Driver's Manual, which is free on the Secretary of State website.

You will also take a vision test at the facility. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a form signed by them before you can proceed.

If you pass the written and vision tests, you will schedule a driving test. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping. You must bring a vehicle that is registered and insured, and the vehicle must pass a safety inspection (working lights, brakes, and wipers).

Where to go in Cook County

The Secretary of State has multiple driver services facilities in Cook County. The main locations are in Chicago, Des Plaines, Downers Grove, and Joliet. Each facility handles driver license applications, renewals, and tests.

You do not need an appointment at most facilities, but wait times can be long — sometimes two to three hours during busy times. Some facilities offer online appointment scheduling through the Secretary of State website, which can reduce your wait. Call ahead or check the website to see if your nearest location takes appointments.

Fees and how long it takes

A new driver license costs $30 and is valid for four years if you are under 21, or eight years if you are 21 or older. You pay this fee when you submit your process.

After you pass all three tests, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your plastic card will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks. If you need your license sooner, you can request a duplicate at the facility for an additional fee, though this is not common for new licenses.

If you already have a license from another state

If you have a valid driver license from another state, you can exchange it for an Illinois license without retaking the written and driving tests. You still need to pass the vision test and bring the same three categories of documents (identity, residency, and Social Security proof).

Bring your out-of-state license with you. The Secretary of State will keep it and issue you an Illinois license. The fee is the same as for a new license.

Renewing or replacing a lost license

If your license is expiring soon, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person. Renewal by mail or online is faster and cheaper than going to a facility. You can renew online through the Secretary of State website if your license is not expired and you have not had any major violations.

If your license is lost or stolen, you must go to a Secretary of State facility in person to report it and get a replacement. Bring your identity and residency documents. A replacement license costs $20.

Real ID and what it means for your license

Illinois offers both a standard driver license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings.

To get a Real ID license, you need to bring the same documents as for a standard license, plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A Real ID license costs $32 instead of $30. If you do not need to fly or enter federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Illinois requires proof of a Social Security number to issue a driver license. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee again each time you take it. Most facilities let you schedule another test the same day or within a few days.

Do I need a learner's permit before I take the driving test?

No. You can go straight to the driving test if you are at least 18 years old. If you are under 18, you must hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the driving test.

What happens if my residency document is older than 60 days?

The Secretary of State will not accept it. Bring a newer document, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. If you just moved and do not have a document dated within 60 days, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not change when your new license expires — it will still be valid for four or eight years from the date you renew.