Where to renew and what you'll need
You can renew your Illinois driver's license in person at a Secretary of State facility, by mail, or online through the Illinois Secretary of State website — but not all renewal types work for all three methods. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your photo.
If your license is still valid and you have not had any major changes (like a name change or address change), you can renew by mail or online without visiting an office. If your license has expired, you will need to renew in person. The in-person route also applies if you want a new photo, if you are renewing a Real ID-compliant license, or if you have not renewed in more than four years.
For any renewal method, you will need your current driver's license number and your Social Security number. If you are renewing by mail, you will also need to include a check or money order for the renewal fee, which varies depending on the type of license and how many years you are renewing for.
Key Takeaways
- Online and mail renewal are available only if your license is still valid and you have not had major changes like a name or address update.
- In-person renewal at a Secretary of State facility is required if your license has expired, if you want a new photo, or if you are renewing a Real ID license.
- Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks from the time the Secretary of State receives your process, while online renewal is typically faster.
- The renewal fee depends on your license type and renewal period, so check the Secretary of State website for the exact amount before you submit payment.
Renewing online through the Illinois Secretary of State
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You will go to the Illinois Secretary of State website, create or log into your account, and follow the prompts to enter your personal information and current license details. The system will ask you to confirm your address and any other information on file.
Once you submit your process and payment online, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within two to three weeks. You do not need to visit an office, and you will keep your current photo on your renewed license.
Online renewal works only if your license is currently valid, your address has not changed, and you do not need a new photo or Real ID upgrade. If any of these conditions do not explore to you, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Renewing by mail
To renew by mail, you will need to request an process form from the Secretary of State or read it from their website. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number and Social Security number. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee — do not send cash.
Mail your completed process, payment, and your current driver's license to the address listed on the form. The Secretary of State will process your process and mail your new license back to you, which typically takes two to three weeks from the date they receive it. You will keep your current photo on your renewed license.
Mail renewal is available only if your license is still valid and you have not had a name change or address change. If you have moved, you must renew in person so the Secretary of State can verify your new address.
Renewing in person at a Secretary of State facility
To renew in person, visit any Secretary of State Driver Services facility with your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Bring your payment in cash, check, or debit card — the accepted payment methods vary by location, so call ahead if you are unsure.
You will fill out an process at the facility, have your photo taken for your new license, and pay the renewal fee. Your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. If you need your license right away, some facilities offer a temporary paper license that you can use while you wait for the physical card to arrive.
In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you are renewing a Real ID-compliant license, if you want a new photo, or if you have not renewed in more than four years. It is also the only option if you have had a name change or address change.
Real ID and what it means for your renewal
A Real ID-compliant driver's license has a gold star or marking in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. If you have a Real ID license, you can use it as identification for domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. If your current license does not have this marking, you can upgrade to a Real ID license when you renew.
Real ID renewal must be done in person at a Secretary of State facility. You will need to bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your legal name and date of birth (such as a birth certificate or passport). The fee for a Real ID license may be higher than a standard renewal, so check the Secretary of State website for current pricing.
If you do not upgrade to Real ID when you renew, your standard license will remain valid for driving and other everyday uses. However, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.
How long your renewed license is valid
An Illinois driver's license is valid for four or eight years, depending on your age and the type of license you hold. When you renew, you can choose to renew for four years or eight years — the eight-year option costs more but means you will not need to renew again for longer.
Your renewal notice will tell you how long your current license is valid for. If you are unsure, you can check the expiration date printed on your license itself. Some people renew for four years the first time and then switch to eight years on their next renewal, depending on their preference and budget.
What to do if your license has expired
If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can renew it through the standard in-person process at a Secretary of State facility. Bring the same documents you would need for a regular renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you will need to take a written test and a driving test in addition to the standard renewal process. You will also need to bring a vehicle for the driving test. Contact your local Secretary of State facility to schedule an appointment, as the testing process takes longer than a standard renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have moved to a different address?
If you have moved, you must renew in person at a Secretary of State facility so they can verify your new address. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Online and mail renewal are not available when you have a pending address change.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I submit my process?
Most renewed licenses arrive within two to three weeks of when the Secretary of State receives or processes your process. Online renewal is typically faster than mail renewal. If you need your license sooner, ask about a temporary paper license when you renew in person.
What happens if I renew my license but it arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact the Secretary of State Driver Services when ready with your confirmation number and details about the damage or error. They can issue a replacement license or correct the information. Bring your damaged license to a facility if you renewed in person, or mail it back if you renewed by mail or online.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
If you renew online or by mail, your current photo will be used on your new license. A new photo is taken only if you renew in person. If you want a new photo but are otherwise may be able to access for online or mail renewal, you can choose to renew in person instead.
Can I renew my license before the expiration date?
Yes, you can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will be valid for the full term (four or eight years) from the date it is issued.