The identification number is printed in the upper right corner of the front of your Illinois driver's license
Your identification number — also called your driver's license number — appears in the upper right area of the front side of your card, just below your photograph. It is a six-digit number. On older Illinois licenses issued before 2010, the number may appear in a different location, typically in the upper left corner, but the format remains six digits.
The identification number is unique to you and serves as your official driver's license identifier. It is different from your Social Security number and is used by the Illinois Secretary of State's office to track your driving record, violations, and license status. You will need this number when renewing your license, updating your address, or requesting a copy of your driving record.
Key Takeaways
- Your identification number is a six-digit code printed in the upper right corner of the front of your Illinois driver's license, just below your photo.
- On licenses issued before 2010, the number may be located in the upper left corner instead, but the six-digit format is the same.
- This number is unique to you and is used by the Illinois Secretary of State to maintain your driving record and license information.
- You will need your identification number when renewing your license, changing your address, or requesting official records from the Secretary of State.
How the identification number differs from other numbers on your license
Your Illinois driver's license contains several numbers, and it is important to know which is which. Your identification number is the six-digit code in the upper right. Your date of birth appears separately on the license. Your license class — which indicates what vehicles you are permitted to drive — is also listed as a separate field.
Some people confuse the identification number with their Social Security number, but they are not the same. The Secretary of State uses your Social Security number during the license process process to verify your identity, but it does not appear on the physical card. If you need to reference your license information for official purposes, always use the six-digit identification number printed on the front.
Why you need your identification number
The identification number is required for several common transactions with the Illinois Secretary of State. If you are renewing your license, you will enter this number on the renewal form or online portal. When you request a copy of your driving record — for insurance purposes, employment background checks, or legal matters — you will provide this number to confirm your identity and pull the correct file.
You may also need your identification number if you are updating your address, requesting a duplicate license after losing your card, or disputing a traffic violation. Insurance companies sometimes ask for this number when you are getting a quote or filing a claim. Law enforcement may reference it during a traffic stop, though they will typically read it directly from your card.
Finding your identification number on different Illinois license versions
Illinois has updated its driver's license design several times. On the current design — licenses issued from 2010 onward — the identification number is clearly visible in the upper right corner of the front, printed in a larger font that is straightforward to read. The number is positioned just below your photograph and above your signature line.
If you hold an older Illinois license issued before 2010, the layout is different. The identification number on these cards is typically located in the upper left corner of the front side. The number is still six digits and serves the same purpose. If you are unsure whether your older license is still valid or need to update it, you can contact the Illinois Secretary of State's office or visit their website for information about renewal requirements.
What to do if you cannot locate your identification number
If your license is damaged, faded, or difficult to read, you have options. You can request a duplicate license from the Illinois Secretary of State. To do this, you will need to visit a Secretary of State facility in person or submit a request by mail. You will need to provide proof of identity and residency, and there is a fee for a duplicate license.
If you have lost your license entirely, you can report it and request a replacement through the same process. The Secretary of State will issue you a new card with the same identification number — your number does not change when you replace a lost or damaged license. If you need your identification number before you receive your replacement card, you can contact the Secretary of State's office directly and provide your name and date of birth to look up the number.
How to use your identification number for online transactions
The Illinois Secretary of State offers an online portal where you can renew your license, update your address, and request records. When you log in, you will typically be asked to enter your identification number along with other personal information such as your date of birth or the last four digits of your Social Security number. This is a security measure to confirm that you are the license holder.
Keep your identification number in a safe place if you plan to use online services. You do not need to memorize it, but having it readily available will speed up the process when you need to access your account or complete a transaction. If you forget your number, you can look it up on your physical license or contact the Secretary of State's office for information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my identification number the same as my Social Security number?
No. Your identification number is a six-digit code unique to your Illinois driver's license. Your Social Security number is a separate nine-digit number that the Secretary of State uses to verify your identity during the process process, but it does not appear on your physical license card.
What if my identification number is worn off or unreadable on my old license?
You can request a duplicate license from the Illinois Secretary of State. Visit a Secretary of State facility in person, or submit a request by mail with proof of identity and residency. Your identification number will remain the same on your replacement card, and you can call the Secretary of State's office to look up your number if you need it before your new card arrives.
Do I need my identification number to renew my license online?
Yes. The Illinois Secretary of State's online renewal portal requires your identification number along with other personal information to verify your identity. Having your license handy when you start the renewal process will make it easier to enter the correct number.
Will my identification number change if I get a new license?
No. Your identification number stays the same throughout your life as an Illinois driver. Whether you renew your license, replace a lost card, or update your address, the six-digit number remains constant and tied to your driving record.