What You Need to Know Before You Start
Illinois lets you renew your driver's license in three ways: online, by mail, or in person at a Secretary of State facility. Which route you can take depends on your license type, how long it's been expired, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some situations require an in-person visit.
Your current license must not be expired by more than five years for you to use the mail or online routes. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. The same applies if you need a new photo, have a medical condition to report, or want to change your address on the license itself.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $5 less than renewing by mail or in person, but only works if your license expired within the last five years and you don't need a new photo.
- Mail renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the Secretary of State; processing takes two to three weeks.
- In-person renewal at a Secretary of State facility is required if your license expired more than five years ago, you need a new photo, or you're changing your address.
- You can check your renewal may be able to access and start the process on the Illinois Secretary of State website before committing to any method.
- Renewal fees vary by license type and method: standard passenger licenses cost $5 to $10 depending on the route, and commercial licenses cost more.
Renewing Online Through the Secretary of State Website
Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if you're may be able to access. Go to the Illinois Secretary of State website, find the driver's license section, and select "Renew Your License Online." You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will verify your identity using information on file.
The entire process takes about 10 minutes. You'll pay $5 for a standard passenger license renewal. Once you complete the transaction, the Secretary of State mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.
Online renewal is not available if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need to change your address, if you want a new photo, or if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL). If any of these explore, you must use mail or in-person renewal.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal works for standard passenger licenses that expired within the last five years and for which you don't need a new photo. You'll need to complete Form DL 500 (process for Illinois Driver's License or Permit), which you can read from the Secretary of State website or request by phone at 217-782-6900.
Mail your completed form, your current license, and a check or money order for $10 (made payable to the Secretary of State) to: Secretary of State, Driver Services Department, 501 South Second Street, Springfield, IL 62756. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want your new license mailed back to you.
Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your envelope. Mail delivery adds another one to two weeks on each end. Keep your current license until your new one arrives. If your license expires before your renewal arrives, you can print a temporary license from the Secretary of State website to carry while you wait.
Renewing in Person at a Secretary of State Facility
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, if you're changing your address, or if you hold a CDL. Bring your current license (or expired license if you no longer have it), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days).
Find your nearest Secretary of State facility on their website and check hours before you go. Many offices now use an online appointment system; you can book a time slot in advance or walk in during open hours. Processing at the office takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll pay $10 for a standard passenger license. Your new license is mailed to you within one to two weeks; you cannot take it with you the same day.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, you may be required to pass a vision test or written test at the office. The Secretary of State website lists which facilities offer testing. Call ahead to confirm what tests you'll need before you visit.
Fees and Payment Methods by Renewal Route
| Renewal Route | Standard License Cost | Payment Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $5 | Debit or credit card | 1–2 weeks delivery |
| By Mail | $10 | Check or money order | 2–3 weeks processing + 1–2 weeks delivery |
| In Person | $10 | Cash, check, debit, or credit card | 1–2 weeks delivery after visit |
Commercial driver's licenses cost more to renew than standard licenses. Fees vary depending on the type of CDL and endorsements you hold. Check the Secretary of State website or call 217-782-6900 for current CDL renewal fees.
What Happens If Your License Expires Before Your Renewal Arrives
If you're waiting for your renewed license and your current one expires, you can print a temporary license from the Illinois Secretary of State website. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving and identification purposes. Print it, sign it, and carry it with your expired license.
If you're renewing by mail or in person and your license expires before your new one arrives, contact the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 to confirm your renewal is in progress. They can tell you the expected delivery date and whether you need to take any additional steps. Do not drive without a valid license or a valid temporary license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's been expired for more than five years?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a Secretary of State facility. You may also be required to pass a vision test or written test. Call ahead to confirm which tests you'll need before you visit.
What if I need to change my address when I renew?
If you're renewing online, you cannot change your address in that system. You must renew by mail or in person. When renewing in person, bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days).
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore online?
The Secretary of State mails your new license within one to two weeks of your online renewal. Standard mail delivery adds another one to two weeks, so expect your license four weeks after you renew online.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Many Secretary of State facilities now offer online appointment booking, but walk-ins are usually accepted during open hours. Check your local facility's website to see if appointments are required or recommended in your area.
What if I lost my current license and can't send it in for mail renewal?
If you've lost your license, you cannot renew by mail. You must renew in person at a Secretary of State facility. Bring your expired or lost license number if you have it, along with proof of your Social Security number and current address.