Where to renew and what you need before you start
You can renew your Illinois driver's license either online through the Secretary of State website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services facility. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person renewal is when ready if you need your license the same day.
Before you choose a method, gather these documents: your current Illinois driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing a Real ID-compliant license, you will need the same documents as a first-time Real ID process, which includes a birth certificate or passport.
Check whether you are may be able to access for online renewal before you start. You cannot renew online if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you are over 81 years old, if you need to change your address, or if your current license is damaged or lost. The Secretary of State website has a tool that tells you which method works for your situation.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Secretary of State website is the fastest option and takes 7 to 10 business days, but you must have a valid current license and no suspensions or address changes.
- Mail renewal requires mailing your current license and a completed process to the Secretary of State, and takes 2 to 3 weeks.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services facility gives you a new license the same day but requires an appointment, which you can book online.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number for any renewal method.
- If you are renewing a Real ID license or your name has changed, bring additional documents such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.
Online renewal through the Secretary of State website
Go to cyberdriveillinois.com and click the "Online Services" link. Select "Renew Your Driver's License" and log in with your Illinois driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Answer the questions about your current address, any medical conditions, and whether you want to be an organ donor.
Review your information carefully — any mistakes now will appear on your new license. Pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. The fee for a standard four-year renewal is $30; a six-year renewal is $60; and an eight-year renewal is $95. After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If you need to change your address, you cannot do this through online renewal — you must renew in person or by mail and include a change-of-address form. If you do not receive your license within 10 business days, contact the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 with your confirmation number.
Mail renewal: completing and sending your process
read the DL 44 form from the Secretary of State website or call 217-782-6900 to request one by mail. Fill out the form completely, including your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Sign and date it in the spaces provided — an unsigned form will be returned.
Enclose your current Illinois driver's license, the completed DL 44 form, proof of residency, and a check or money order for the renewal fee payable to "Secretary of State." Do not send cash. Mail everything to: Secretary of State, Driver Services Department, 501 South Second Street, Springfield, IL 62756.
Keep a copy of everything you send. Mail renewal typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your packet. If you do not receive your license within that time, call 217-782-6900 with your name and date of birth so they can check the status. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives.
In-person renewal at a Driver Services facility
Book an appointment online at cyberdriveillinois.com under "Schedule an Appointment" or call 217-782-6900. Appointments are required at all Driver Services facilities in Illinois. Walk-ins are not accepted. Choose a location near you and a date and time that works — most facilities have appointments available within 1 to 2 weeks.
Bring your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Arrive 10 minutes early. At your appointment, you will answer questions about your health and driving record, have your photo taken, and pay the renewal fee. You will receive your new license before you leave the facility.
If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online or call 217-782-6900 at least 24 hours in advance so someone else can use that time slot. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer to book another one.
Real ID renewal: additional documents you need
If your current license shows a gold star in the upper right corner, it is Real ID-compliant. When you renew, you can keep the Real ID status or downgrade to a standard license. Real ID renewal requires the same proof of residency as a standard renewal, but you must also bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or passport card.
You cannot renew a Real ID license online or by mail. You must renew in person at a Driver Services facility. Bring your birth certificate or passport, your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The fee for a Real ID renewal is the same as a standard renewal.
If you do not have your birth certificate or passport, you can order a certified copy from the Illinois Secretary of State's office (for birth certificates) or the U.S. State Department (for passports). This can add 1 to 2 weeks to your timeline, so plan ahead if you need Real ID renewal.
What happens if your license is suspended or expired
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it through any method. You must contact the Secretary of State to find out why it was suspended and what you need to do to restore it. Call 217-782-6900 or visit a Driver Services facility in person. Suspensions are usually for unpaid traffic tickets, unpaid child support, or medical reasons.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to renewing. Call the Secretary of State before you go to a facility to find out what you will need to bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
If your license is suspended because of an unpaid ticket or fine, you cannot renew until you resolve it. Contact the court that issued the ticket or call the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 to find out what you owe and how to pay it. Once you pay, your suspension will be lifted and you can renew.
What if I lost my current license and need to renew?
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license is lost. You must go to a Driver Services facility in person with proof of residency and your Social Security number. Bring a second form of ID if you have one. The facility will issue you a replacement license on the spot.
How long is my new license valid for?
A standard Illinois driver's license is valid for four years from the date it is issued. You can also choose a six-year or eight-year renewal when you renew, which costs more but means you renew less often. The expiration date will be printed on your new license.
Can I change my address when I renew?
You can change your address if you renew in person or by mail. If you renew online, your address cannot be changed — you must use one of the other methods. Bring proof of your new address dated within 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.
What if I need my license before my renewal arrives in the mail?
If you renewed by mail or online and need your license urgently, go to a Driver Services facility with your confirmation number or receipt. They can issue you a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent license to arrive.