What you need to do to get an Illinois driver's license
If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test or road test again in Illinois. You can exchange your out-of-state license for an Illinois license by visiting a Secretary of State facility in person, bringing your current license and proof of residency, and paying the fee. The process takes about 30 minutes, and your new license arrives in the mail within two to three weeks.
You must switch to an Illinois license within a certain timeframe after you move to the state. Illinois law requires you to get an Illinois license within 30 days of establishing residency. Driving on an out-of-state license after that period is not legal, even if your original license is still valid.
Key Takeaways
- You can exchange an out-of-state license for an Illinois license without retaking any tests if your license is currently valid.
- You must visit a Secretary of State facility in person with your current license, proof of residency, and the required fee.
- Illinois requires you to switch within 30 days of moving to the state; driving on an out-of-state license after that is illegal.
- Your new Illinois license arrives by mail in two to three weeks, so plan ahead if you need it for a specific date.
Documents you need to bring
Bring your current out-of-state driver's license, which must be valid (not expired). You also need proof that you live in Illinois. The Secretary of State accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your current address.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though you can also provide the number verbally and the Secretary of State will verify it. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation of your immigration status instead.
Where to go and what it costs
Visit any Secretary of State Driver Services facility. Illinois has facilities in most counties, and you can find the one nearest you on the Secretary of State website by entering your ZIP code. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some facilities offer appointment slots during busy times. Walk-in hours are typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.
The fee for exchanging an out-of-state license for an Illinois license is $30 for a standard four-year license. If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights), the fee is $32. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the facility.
What happens at the Secretary of State office
When you arrive, you will check in and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take a new photo for your Illinois license, and verify your information. This is also when you will provide your signature for the license. The whole process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use to drive when ready. Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to the address you provide. Check the address carefully before you leave, because the license will be sent there and cannot be redirected.
When your new license arrives
Your Illinois license typically arrives within two to three weeks. During this time, you should carry both your temporary paper license and your out-of-state license when you drive, in case you are stopped by police. The temporary license is valid proof that you have switched to Illinois.
If your license does not arrive within four weeks, contact the Secretary of State to report it. You can call the Driver Services phone line or visit a facility in person. They can check the status of your license and reissue it if needed.
If your out-of-state license is expired or suspended
If your out-of-state license is expired, you cannot exchange it for an Illinois license. You will need to take the written test and road test as if you were a new driver. You can schedule these tests through the Secretary of State website or by calling Driver Services.
If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, Illinois will honor that suspension. You cannot get an Illinois license until the suspension period ends. Contact the Secretary of State to find out when you become may be able to access to drive again in Illinois.
Real ID and what it means for your license
A Real ID is a federal standard that makes a driver's license acceptable for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. Illinois offers both standard licenses and Real ID licenses. If you want a Real ID license, tell the staff member when you arrive, and pay the additional $2 fee.
To get a Real ID license, you need to bring one more document than you would for a standard license: either a birth certificate, passport, or state ID. This extra document proves your citizenship or immigration status. If you do not bring it, you can still get a standard Illinois license that day and upgrade to Real ID later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to take a written test to switch my license?
No. If your out-of-state license is currently valid, you can exchange it for an Illinois license without taking any tests. You only need to visit a Secretary of State facility with your license and proof of residency.
What if I move to Illinois but do not have a permanent address yet?
You can use a temporary address, such as a hotel, friend's house, or shelter, as long as you can provide proof that you are living there. A utility bill in someone else's name with your address, a lease agreement, or a letter from the property owner all work. Once you get a permanent address, you can update your license by mail or at your next renewal.
Can I renew my out-of-state license by mail instead of going in person?
No. Illinois requires you to appear in person at a Secretary of State facility to exchange an out-of-state license. You cannot do this by mail or online, even if your out-of-state license is still valid.
What if I lost my out-of-state license?
You cannot exchange a license you do not have. Contact the state that issued your license and request a replacement. Once you receive it, bring it to Illinois to exchange it. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you may be able to get a temporary permit from Illinois, though this varies by situation.
How long is an Illinois driver's license valid?
A standard Illinois driver's license is valid for four years. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about two months before it expires. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at a Secretary of State facility.