Where to go and what to bring

You can replace your Illinois driver's license at any Secretary of State office. These are located in most counties, and you can find the one nearest you on the Secretary of State website by entering your zip code. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices accept them and may have shorter wait times.

Bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), proof of residency, and a form of identification. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. For identification, bring a passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license if you still have it. If you do not have these documents, the Secretary of State website lists acceptable alternatives.

You will also need to pay a replacement fee. The cost depends on how much time remains on your current license. If your license expires within one year, the replacement costs less than if it expires in two or more years. Check the current fee on the Secretary of State website, as fees change periodically.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Secretary of State office in Illinois to replace your license; find locations and hours on their website.
  • Bring proof of residency (utility bill or bank statement from the last 60 days), a form of ID, and your Social Security number.
  • The replacement fee varies based on your license expiration date and is listed on the Secretary of State website.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent card by mail within one to two weeks.

What happens at the office

When you arrive, you will fill out an process form (the Secretary of State office provides this, or you can read it beforehand from their website). You will have your photo taken for the new license. The photo must meet specific requirements: no sunglasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a plain background. If you wear glasses, you can wear them, but no glare on the lenses.

After you complete the process and photo, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal standing as a plastic card while you wait for the permanent one. Your new plastic license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If your license was stolen or damaged

The replacement process is the same whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. You do not need to file a police report to replace it, though if your license was stolen as part of identity theft, you may want to report that separately to local police and monitor your credit.

If your license was damaged but you still have it, bring it with you. The office will take it and destroy it. If you do not have it, straightforward tell the staff member, and they will note that in your file. Either way, the replacement fee and process remain unchanged.

Replacing a license that expired while lost

If your license expired before you could replace it, you will need to renew it rather than straightforward replace it. The renewal process is slightly different and may require an eye exam or updated information. Contact your local Secretary of State office or check their website to understand what renewal requires, since the rules depend on how long ago your license expired and whether you have had any address changes.

If your license expired very recently (within the last few months), some offices may process it as a replacement rather than a renewal. Call ahead to ask, as this can save you time and potentially reduce the fee.

Getting a replacement by mail or online

Illinois does not currently allow you to replace a lost or damaged license entirely by mail or online. You must visit a Secretary of State office in person. However, you can renew a valid license online through the Secretary of State website if you are not replacing a lost card — renewal is different from replacement.

If you cannot visit an office during regular hours, many locations have extended evening or Saturday hours. Check the office nearest you on the Secretary of State website to see what times are available.

What to do if you need to drive before your new license arrives

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and counts as legal proof of driving privileges. You can use it to drive, rent a car, or show to police if stopped. Keep it in a safe place, as you will need it until your permanent card arrives.

If your temporary license expires before your permanent card arrives (which is rare), contact the Secretary of State office where you applied. They can issue you another temporary license or check on the status of your permanent card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I have an outstanding ticket or traffic violation?

Yes. Traffic violations and unpaid tickets do not prevent you from replacing a lost or damaged license. However, if your license was suspended for a separate reason (such as unpaid child support or a DUI conviction), you cannot replace it until the suspension is lifted. Contact the Secretary of State office to learn about your license is suspended.

What if I moved since my last license and my address is wrong?

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days). The office will update your address when they issue your replacement license. You do not need to do this as a separate step.

Do I need to take a new photo, or can I use my old one?

You must have a new photo taken at the Secretary of State office. The office will not use your old photo from your previous license. This is a standard part of the replacement process.

How long does the permanent license take to arrive?

Most permanent licenses arrive within one to two weeks of your visit. During very busy periods, it can take up to three weeks. If you have not received it after three weeks, contact the Secretary of State office where you applied.