Illinois Secretary of State Facilities Handle Driver's Licenses
The Illinois Secretary of State operates the network of driver services facilities where you can get a new driver's license, renew an existing one, or handle other license-related transactions. These are the official locations — not private vendors or third-party services — and they are the only places that issue licenses in Illinois.
The Secretary of State runs facilities in most counties across the state. Each location handles the same core services: new licenses, renewals, replacements for lost or damaged licenses, and address changes. Some larger facilities also handle commercial driver's license (CDL) transactions and hazmat endorsements.
You do not need an appointment at most Illinois facilities, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Some facilities now offer online scheduling through the Secretary of State website, which can reduce your time in the building.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois Secretary of State driver services facilities are the only places that issue driver's licenses in the state.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to complete most transactions.
- Facilities are located in most Illinois counties, and you can find your nearest location and current hours on the Secretary of State website.
- Most facilities do not require appointments, but online scheduling is available at some locations to reduce wait times.
- Processing times for new licenses typically take a few weeks after your visit, and the license is mailed to your address on file.
Finding Your Nearest Facility and Hours
The Secretary of State website maintains a searchable directory of all driver services facilities in Illinois. You can search by county, city, or ZIP code to find the location nearest you. The directory shows current hours of operation, which vary by location — some facilities are open Monday through Friday only, while others have limited Saturday hours.
Facilities in larger cities like Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria typically have longer hours and handle higher volume. Rural and smaller-city facilities may have more limited schedules. Hours can change seasonally or due to staffing, so checking the website before you go is important.
Some facilities close for lunch or have specific times when they stop accepting new applications. The website shows these details for each location, and you can also call ahead to confirm current hours and typical wait times.
Documents You Need to Bring
For a new driver's license, you will need to bring several documents. The Secretary of State requires proof of identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or previous Illinois license), proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead.
For a renewal, the requirements are simpler if you are renewing by mail or online — you typically only need your current license number and payment. If you renew in person, bring your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of residency. The facility will issue a replacement on the spot, though you may pay a replacement fee.
What Happens During Your Visit
When you arrive at a facility, you will check in and receive a number or ticket. Wait times depend on the location and time of day — early morning and mid-week visits are typically shorter. You will then meet with a clerk who will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect your payment.
The clerk will also ask you to confirm or update your address, emergency contact information, and organ donor status. You will sign a form confirming the information is correct. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the clerk, though the wait before that can be longer.
You will receive a temporary paper license at the end of your visit. Your permanent plastic license is produced at a central facility and mailed to your address on file — this typically takes two to three weeks, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.
Renewal Options Beyond In-Person Visits
Illinois allows many drivers to renew their licenses without visiting a facility. If your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations or medical suspensions, you can renew online through the Secretary of State website or by mail. Online renewal is faster — you receive your new license in about two weeks — and costs less than in-person renewal.
To renew online, you will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes. Mail renewal requires you to complete a form, include a check or money order, and mail it to the address on the form — this takes longer but works if you prefer not to use the website.
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year. You also cannot renew online if you need to change your name or address significantly, or if you are explore for a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time.
REAL ID Compliance and Enhanced Licenses
Illinois offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. A standard license does not have this star and cannot be used for these purposes after May 7, 2025.
To get a REAL ID license, you must visit a facility in person — you cannot renew online or by mail for REAL ID. You will need to bring additional documents: proof of citizenship (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency. The process is the same as a standard license renewal, but the fee is slightly higher.
If you already have a REAL ID license, you can renew it online or by mail as long as you meet the other renewal requirements. The star will appear on your new license automatically.
Fees and Payment Methods
Driver's license fees in Illinois vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard four-year license costs one amount, while an eight-year license costs more. A REAL ID license costs more than a standard license. Replacement licenses for lost or stolen documents have an additional fee.
Facilities accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some locations may have restrictions on which payment methods they accept, so calling ahead can confirm. If you are renewing by mail, you must send a check or money order — online renewal accepts debit and credit cards only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has already expired?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a facility. You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for more than one year. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
How long does it take to get my new license after my visit?
Your permanent plastic license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within two to three weeks. You receive a temporary paper license at the facility that you can use when ready. During high-volume periods, mailing can take longer.
What if I moved and my address on my license is wrong?
You can update your address online through the Secretary of State website without visiting a facility, or you can update it in person at any facility. If you update online, your new license will be mailed to your new address.
Do I need an appointment to visit a driver services facility?
Most facilities do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Some locations now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times. Check the Secretary of State website for your nearest facility to see if scheduling is available.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have my number memorized?
Bring any document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or bank statement. If you do not have your number and cannot provide it, you can use an ITIN instead, or contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before your visit.