What Chicago offers and who can get it
Illinois offers a REAL ID-compliant driver's license to people without proof of U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status. This license works for driving and identification within Illinois, but it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. Chicago residents can obtain this license through the Illinois Secretary of State's office.
The license is sometimes called a "REAL ID-compliant" license or a standard driver's license issued under Illinois law. It is the same physical card as any other Illinois driver's license — the difference is in what documents you used to get it and what you can use it for.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois issues driver's licenses to people without proof of citizenship, but the license cannot be used for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings.
- You will need a valid passport or travel document from your country of origin, proof of Illinois residency, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- You must visit a Secretary of State driver services facility in person to explore; you cannot complete this by mail or online.
- The process includes a written test, a vision test, and a driving test, unless you already hold a valid license from another state or country.
Documents you need to bring
The Secretary of State requires specific documents to issue a driver's license. Bring your valid passport or travel document from your country of origin — this is your primary form of identification. If your passport is expired, you can still use it as long as it was valid when you entered the United States.
You also need proof that you live in Illinois. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a letter from your landlord or a family member who lives with you, plus a document showing their residency.
Bring either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, bring the letter from the IRS that was issued with it. You will also need to provide your date of birth and answer questions about your driving history.
Where to explore in Chicago
The Secretary of State operates several driver services facilities in the Chicago area. The main downtown location is at 17 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60602. There are also facilities in the Loop, on the North Side, on the South Side, and in the western suburbs. You can find the full list and hours on the Illinois Secretary of State website.
Facilities are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some locations offering limited Saturday hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning and mid-week visits often have shorter lines. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some facilities now offer online scheduling to reduce wait time.
The testing and approval process
If you do not already hold a valid driver's license from another state or country, you will take a written test covering Illinois traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a practical driving test. The written test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish. You can study using the Illinois Driver's Manual, which is available free online and in print at any driver services facility.
The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. The driving test takes place on public roads near the facility and lasts about 15 minutes. An examiner sits in the car and watches you perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping.
If you already hold a valid driver's license from another country, you may not need to take the driving test, though you will still take the written and vision tests. Bring your foreign license with you to ask about this.
Cost and how long it takes
An Illinois driver's license costs $30 for an eight-year license or $20 for a four-year license. You pay this fee at the driver services facility when you explore. Some facilities accept cash, debit, and credit cards; a few accept only cash, so bring both if possible.
Your license is usually issued the same day if you pass all tests. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is mailed to you. The plastic card typically arrives within two to three weeks. If you need the card sooner, you can pay an additional fee to have it expedited, though this is not always available.
Using your license and its limits
Your Illinois driver's license allows you to drive legally in Illinois and in other states. Police will accept it as identification for traffic stops and routine interactions. You can use it to open a bank account, rent an apartment, or show to a business that asks for ID.
However, this license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. If you need to fly domestically, you will need a passport or passport card from your country of origin. Some states have begun issuing "REAL ID-compliant" licenses that work for federal purposes, but Illinois does not currently offer this option to people without proof of citizenship.
Renewing your license
When your license expires, you can renew it by mail or online if you have not changed your address and your vision has not changed significantly. If you have moved or need a new photo, you must visit a driver services facility in person. Renewal by mail costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two weeks.
You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew. If you do not receive a notice, you can contact the Secretary of State or visit a facility to renew early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Illinois driver's license to fly on a domestic flight?
No. Illinois driver's licenses issued without proof of citizenship cannot be used for federal purposes like domestic air travel. You will need a valid passport or passport card from your country of origin to board a plane. Some other states offer REAL ID-compliant licenses for this purpose, but Illinois does not.
What if my passport is expired?
You can use an expired passport to get a driver's license as long as it was valid when you entered the United States. The Secretary of State accepts expired passports as proof of identity. However, you may want to renew your passport separately if you need it for travel or other purposes.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a license?
No. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the IRS letter that came with your ITIN. If you have neither a Social Security number nor an ITIN, contact the Secretary of State to ask about other options.
What happens if I fail the written or driving test?
You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake a test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. The Secretary of State offers free study materials and practice tests online to help you prepare.
Can someone else pick up my license for me?
No. You must be present in person to explore for a driver's license. You cannot send someone else to explore on your behalf. However, once your plastic license is mailed to you, anyone can receive it at your address.