How to Get a Driver's License as an Immigrant in Chicago

Illinois issues driver's licenses to immigrants regardless of immigration status, but the documents you need and the process differ from what U.S. citizens provide

Illinois allows immigrants to obtain a driver's license or state ID card without proof of legal immigration status. You do not need a Social Security number or a green card. Instead, the Illinois Secretary of State's office accepts an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid passport from your country of origin, along with proof of residency in Illinois and proof of your legal name.

Chicago residents explore through the Secretary of State's Driver Services facilities, which operate in multiple locations across the city and suburbs. The process takes about 30 minutes for a standard appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You will receive a standard Illinois driver's license that looks identical to any other — it carries no marking that indicates immigration status.

Key Takeaways

Illinois accepts an ITIN or valid foreign passport instead of a Social Security number, making licenses available to immigrants regardless of status.
You must bring proof of Illinois residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), proof of legal name (passport or birth certificate), and either an ITIN letter or passport.
The Secretary of State's Driver Services locations in Chicago and Cook County handle applications; you can book an appointment online or walk in during business hours.
A standard Illinois driver's license costs $30 and is valid for four years; a state ID card costs $20 and is also valid for four years.
You must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test covering traffic laws; the test is available in multiple languages.

What documents you need to bring

Bring an original or certified copy of your proof of legal name. A valid passport from your country of origin is the most straightforward option. A birth certificate (original or certified copy) also works, though if it is not in English you must bring a certified English translation along with the original. A marriage certificate or divorce decree can establish a name change if your current name differs from your birth name.

You also need proof that you live in Illinois. The Secretary of State accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued mail (such as a tax document or court notice) dated within the past 90 days. The document must show your name and current address. A lease or utility bill in a roommate's name will not work — the document must be in your name.

For the Social Security number field, bring either an ITIN letter from the IRS or your valid foreign passport. If you have an ITIN, request a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN number; you can request this online through the IRS website or by calling 1-800-829-1040. If you do not have an ITIN and do not want to obtain one, your passport alone is sufficient.

Where to explore in Chicago and Cook County

The Secretary of State operates Driver Services facilities throughout Chicago and Cook County. The main downtown Chicago location is at 100 West Randolph Street, Suite 200. Additional facilities are located in the Loop, on the North Side, on the South Side, and in suburban areas including Des Plaines, Downers Grove, and Joliet. Hours vary by location but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours.

You can book an appointment online through the Secretary of State's website (cyberdriveillinois.com) or walk in during business hours. Appointments typically reduce wait time to 30 minutes or less. Walk-ins are accepted but may face longer waits, especially during mid-morning and early afternoon hours. The Secretary of State's website shows real-time wait times at each location.

The written test and vision screening

Before you receive your license, you must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test. The vision test checks that you can see clearly enough to drive safely; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The written test covers Illinois traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly to pass.

The written test is available in English, Spanish, Polish, and several other languages. When you book your appointment or arrive at the facility, tell the staff which language you need. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. Many people study using the free practice test available on the Secretary of State's website before they come in.

Cost and how long the license lasts

A standard Illinois driver's license costs $30 and is valid for four years. A state ID card (which allows you to prove your identity but not to drive) costs $20 and is also valid for four years. You pay at the Driver Services facility when you complete your process. The Secretary of State accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pass the test and pay the fee. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Use the temporary license to drive while you wait for the permanent one. If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Secretary of State's customer service line at 1-217-782-6900.

Renewing your license before it expires

You can renew your Illinois driver's license up to one year before it expires. Renewals can be done in person at any Driver Services facility or online through the Secretary of State's website if you meet certain conditions (no address change, no name change, and no medical restrictions). An in-person renewal takes about 15 minutes and costs $30 for a four-year license.

If you renew online, you do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless the Secretary of State requests it. You will need to upload a new photo and confirm your information. Online renewal is faster and requires no appointment, but you must have a valid email address and access to a computer or smartphone.

Using your Illinois license outside Illinois

An Illinois driver's license is recognized as valid identification in all 50 states and U.S. territories. You can use it to rent a car, board a domestic flight, or enter federal buildings. However, some states and federal agencies have additional requirements for people without a Social Security number. If you plan to travel or use your license for purposes beyond driving, check the specific requirements of the state or agency you are dealing with.

If you travel outside the United States, your Illinois driver's license is not valid as travel documentation. You will need your passport or other travel documents issued by your country of origin. An International Driving Permit, issued by your home country's transportation authority, may be useful if you plan to rent a car in another country, but it is not required in most places.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or have a green card to get an Illinois driver's license?

No. Illinois issues driver's licenses to immigrants regardless of immigration status. You do not need citizenship, a green card, or legal permanent residency. You need only proof of your legal name, proof of Illinois residency, and either an ITIN or a valid foreign passport.

What if I don't have an ITIN and don't want to get one?

You can use your valid foreign passport instead. The Secretary of State accepts either an ITIN letter or a passport — you do not need both. If you choose to use your passport, bring the original with you to your appointment.

Can I use a lease or utility bill that is not in my name?

No. The proof of residency document must show your name and your current address. If you live with a roommate or family member, ask them to provide a document in your name, or bring a bank statement, government mail, or other document that is in your name and dated within 90 days.

What languages is the written test available in?

The test is available in English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, Korean, and several other languages. When you schedule your appointment or arrive at the facility, let the staff know which language you need. The test covers the same material regardless of language.

How long does it take to get my permanent license after I pass the test?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pass the test and pay the fee. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Secretary of State at 1-217-782-6900.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.