Documents you need to bring
To renew your Illinois driver's license, you need to bring your current license and proof of your legal name, date of birth, and Illinois residency. The Secretary of State's office accepts a limited set of documents for each category, so bringing the wrong papers will delay your renewal.
For proof of legal name and date of birth, bring your birth certificate, passport, or state ID. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a current address. The residency document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.
If your name has changed since your last license was issued—through marriage, divorce, or court order—bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change order. Without it, you cannot renew under a different name.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your current Illinois driver's license, a birth certificate or passport, and a utility bill or lease showing your current address.
- If your name has changed, bring the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order that documents the change.
- You can renew in person at a Secretary of State facility, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Illinois Secretary of State website.
- Renewal fees vary by license type and how long you want the license to last, so check the Secretary of State website for the current amount.
- Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks of approval if you renew by mail or online.
Where to renew and how long it takes
You can renew at any Secretary of State Driver Services facility across Illinois. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The Secretary of State website lists all facilities and their hours. Some locations are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.
If you renew in person, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent license by mail within two to three weeks. If you renew by mail or online, the entire process takes two to three weeks from the time the Secretary of State receives or processes your request.
Renewing by mail or online instead of in person
You can renew by mail or online only if you meet specific conditions. Your current license must not be suspended or revoked, you must not have any unpaid traffic tickets or child support obligations, and your license must not have expired more than one year ago. If any of these explore to you, you must renew in person at a Driver Services facility.
To renew online, go to the Illinois Secretary of State website, select the online renewal option, and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Online renewal is faster than mail renewal because you receive your temporary license when ready and your permanent license arrives within two to three weeks.
To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the Secretary of State website or request one by phone. Fill it out, include a copy of your proof of residency, and mail it with your current license to the address on the form. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee. Mail renewal takes longer because the Secretary of State must receive and process your form before your temporary license is issued.
What happens if your license has expired
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must renew in person at a Driver Services facility and bring all the same documents: your expired license, proof of legal name and date of birth, and proof of residency. Bring the documents even though your license is expired—the facility will accept it as identification for the renewal process.
If your license expired between one and five years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online if you have no suspensions, revocations, or unpaid obligations. Check the Secretary of State website or call to confirm whether your specific situation allows mail or online renewal.
Fees and license validity periods
Renewal fees depend on your license type and how long you want the license to be valid. Illinois offers licenses valid for four years, six years, or eight years. A longer validity period costs more upfront but means you renew less often. The Secretary of State website lists the current fee for each option. Fees change periodically, so do not assume the amount you paid last time is still correct.
You can pay by check, money order, or credit card, depending on whether you renew in person, by mail, or online. In-person renewal accepts all payment methods. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards.
Special situations: vision tests and medical reports
If you are renewing a license that requires a vision test, you must have the test done before you renew. You can have the test at any eye care provider—an optometrist or ophthalmologist—and bring the results to your renewal appointment. The Secretary of State website lists which license types require vision testing based on your age and driving record.
If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, the Secretary of State may require a medical report from your doctor before approving your renewal. The office will contact you if this applies. Do not wait for contact—if you know you have a condition that could affect your driving, mention it when you renew so the process does not stall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it is suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Secretary of State, which may involve paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or meeting other requirements. Contact the Secretary of State to find out what you need to do before you can renew.
What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?
You can use other documents to prove your legal name and date of birth, such as a court order, adoption papers, or a baptism certificate. The Secretary of State website lists all accepted documents. Call the Driver Services facility where you plan to renew to confirm whether your specific document will be accepted before you go.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
Yes. A new photo is taken every time you renew, whether you renew in person, by mail, or online. If you renew by mail or online, you may be able to use a digital photo you upload, or the Secretary of State will use your previous photo. Check the renewal form or online instructions for the specific rules.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
Bring proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days. The new address will be printed on your renewed license. If you have moved recently and do not have a document in your name yet, contact the Secretary of State to ask what alternative documents they accept.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must renew in person, by mail, or online yourself. The Secretary of State does not allow someone else to renew on your behalf, even with a power of attorney. If you cannot renew yourself, you will need to do it when you are able to.