Illinois lets undocumented immigrants get a driver's license through the REAL ID Alternative Document program, but you must prove residency in Illinois and pass the written and driving tests

Illinois does not require proof of citizenship or legal immigration status to obtain a driver's license. Instead, the state uses the REAL ID Alternative Document (RIAD) program, which allows undocumented immigrants to get a standard driver's license that works for driving but not for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.

The process in Chicago is the same as for any other driver's license applicant: you visit a Secretary of State facility, provide documents that prove your identity and Illinois residency, pass a written test on traffic laws, and pass a practical driving test. The key difference is which documents you can use to prove who you are and where you live.

This option has been available in Illinois since 2013 and is separate from the federal REAL ID standard that other states use. It exists specifically to allow people without Social Security numbers or federal immigration documents to drive legally.

Key Takeaways

  • Illinois issues driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants through the REAL ID Alternative Document program without requiring proof of citizenship or legal status.
  • You must prove your identity with a foreign passport or consular ID and prove Illinois residency with documents like a lease, utility bill, or bank statement.
  • The Secretary of State's Chicago office on Clark Street and the facility in Des Plaines both serve Cook County residents and accept RIAD applications.
  • You must pass a written test on Illinois traffic laws and a driving test, just like any other applicant, and the entire process typically takes one visit.
  • A RIAD driver's license allows you to drive legally in all 50 states but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight.

What documents you need to bring

The Secretary of State requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of Illinois residency. For identity, you can use a foreign passport, a consular ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate in the United States, or a Matricula Consular card. The document must be valid or expired no more than one year.

For residency, you need one document that shows your name and an Illinois address. Acceptable documents include a lease or rental agreement, a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, a mortgage statement, or a government-issued document like a tax return or W-2. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number if you have one, or sign a statement saying you do not have one. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted.

Where to go in the Chicago area

The Secretary of State operates two main facilities that serve the Chicago area. The downtown Chicago office is located at 17 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60602, and the Des Plaines facility is at 2500 South Highland Avenue, Des Plaines, IL 60018. Both offices accept RIAD applications and conduct the written and driving tests on-site.

You do not need an appointment at most Secretary of State facilities, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The downtown Chicago office typically has longer waits during lunch hours and late afternoon. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter lines. You can check current wait times on the Secretary of State website before you go.

If you live outside Cook County, there are other Secretary of State facilities throughout Illinois that also process RIAD applications. The process and requirements are identical regardless of which facility you visit.

The written test and driving test

The written test covers Illinois traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 78 out of 100 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and others. When you arrive at the facility, tell the staff which language you need, and they will provide the test in that language.

If you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test. This test is conducted by a Secretary of State examiner who rides with you in your own vehicle or a vehicle you arrange. The examiner checks your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. You must have a valid learner's permit or be accompanied by a licensed driver during the test.

If you fail either test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may need to schedule another appointment depending on facility availability.

Cost and timeline

An Illinois driver's license costs $30 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license. The RIAD program does not charge an additional fee. Payment is accepted in cash, debit card, or credit card at the Secretary of State facility.

The entire process — written test, driving test, and license issuance — typically happens in a single visit if you pass both tests. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you fail a test, you will need to return for another appointment.

What you can and cannot do with a RIAD license

A RIAD driver's license is valid for driving in all 50 states and is recognized by law enforcement as proof of your right to operate a vehicle. You can use it to rent a car, purchase car insurance, and drive legally anywhere in the United States.

However, a RIAD license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building that requires ID, or explore for certain federal benefits. If you need to fly domestically, you will need a passport or other federal ID. For most day-to-day purposes — driving, banking, opening a utility account — the RIAD license works the same as a standard Illinois driver's license.

Renewing your RIAD license

When your RIAD license expires, you can renew it by mail or in person at a Secretary of State facility. Renewal by mail requires the same documents you used to obtain the original license: proof of identity and proof of current Illinois residency. If your residency documents are more than 60 days old, you will need to provide new ones.

Renewal by mail costs $30 for a four-year license and takes about two weeks. Renewal in person at a facility is faster but requires you to retake the written test and may require a new driving test depending on your age and driving record. Check the Secretary of State website for current renewal procedures and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to get a RIAD license?

No. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can sign a statement at the Secretary of State facility saying so. The license will be issued without one. If you obtain a Social Security number later, you can update your license record.

Can I use a consular ID from my country's consulate in Chicago?

Yes. A Matricula Consular or other consular ID issued by your country's embassy or consulate is accepted as proof of identity. It must be valid or expired no more than one year. The consulate's office in Chicago can issue or renew these documents if you need one.

What if I fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake the test at the same facility or another Secretary of State location. There is no waiting period, but you may need to schedule another appointment. Each test attempt costs the same as the original license fee.

Will getting a driver's license affect my immigration status?

No. The Secretary of State does not share driver's license information with immigration authorities. Getting a license is a state matter, not a federal one. However, if you are pulled over by police, a traffic stop could lead to other interactions depending on circumstances.

Can I use a RIAD license to board a plane or enter a federal building?

No. A RIAD license is not compliant with federal REAL ID standards and cannot be used for federal purposes. You would need a passport or other federal ID for domestic flights or federal buildings. For driving and most state-level purposes, the RIAD license works fully.