Get a replacement license at a Secretary of State facility or through the mail
If you've lost your Illinois driver's license, you can replace it in person at any Secretary of State Driver Services facility or by mail. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and you'll walk out with a temporary license the same day. The mail route takes two to three weeks but requires no trip to an office. Both cost $20 for a standard replacement license.
You don't need to retake the written or vision test — a replacement license is issued based on your existing record. The state will mail your permanent license to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days of your visit or process.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a lost Illinois license in person at any Secretary of State Driver Services facility or by mail, both for $20.
- Bring a valid ID (passport, state ID, military ID, or certified birth certificate) and proof of your current address to any in-person appointment.
- In-person replacement gives you a temporary license on the spot; mail replacement takes two to three weeks but requires no office visit.
- You do not need to retake any tests — the replacement is based on your existing driving record.
- If your license was stolen rather than lost, report it to police first so the state can flag it in their system.
What to bring for an in-person replacement
At a Secretary of State Driver Services facility, you'll need to show one valid form of ID and proof of your current address. Valid ID includes a U.S. passport, Illinois state ID card, military ID, or a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office. A learner's permit or expired driver's license also works.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. The document must show your current street address and be dated within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of address.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized — you'll need it to complete the process. You do not need to bring the lost license itself.
How to replace your license by mail
read the process for Duplicate Driver's License or ID Card (form DL 953) from the Secretary of State website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with a photocopy of your valid ID and proof of your current address to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $20 made out to the Secretary of State.
Mail your packet to the address on the form — do not mail it to a Driver Services facility. The state will process your process and mail your replacement license to the address on file. This route typically takes two to three weeks from the date they receive your packet.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If you don't receive your license within four weeks, contact the Secretary of State Driver Services line to check the status of your process.
Finding a Secretary of State Driver Services facility near you
The Secretary of State operates Driver Services facilities in most Illinois counties. Use the facility locator on the Secretary of State website to find the office closest to you, check its hours, and see current wait times. Many facilities allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can cut your wait time significantly.
Facilities in Chicago and other major cities often have longer wait times during midday hours. Early morning or late afternoon visits typically move faster. Some smaller county facilities have no wait at all during off-peak hours.
What happens if your license was stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, file a police report first. Include the report number when you explore for your replacement — either on the mail form or when you visit in person. The state can then flag your old license number in their system so it cannot be used fraudulently.
You can still replace your license using the same process and cost, but the police report creates an official record that protects you if someone tries to use your old license. Keep a copy of the police report for your records.
Getting a temporary license on the same day
When you replace your license in person at a Driver Services facility, you'll receive a temporary paper license before you leave. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail.
The temporary license shows your name, address, and license number. It's not a physical card, so keep it in a safe place — you'll need to show it along with your ID if you're stopped by police. Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary license expires automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive without my license while I wait for the replacement?
If you get your replacement in person, yes — you'll have a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. If you're using the mail route, you cannot legally drive until your permanent license arrives. Consider visiting a facility in person if you need to drive before your replacement arrives.
What if I don't have a valid ID to show at the facility?
A certified copy of your birth certificate from the Illinois Department of Public Health counts as valid ID. You can order one online or by mail from their vital records office. This takes several days, so plan ahead if this is your only option.
Do I need to retake my vision test or written exam?
No. A replacement license is issued based on your existing driving record. You only retake tests if your license was suspended, revoked, or expired for more than a year.
How long does the permanent license take to arrive after my in-person visit?
Usually 7 to 10 business days. The state mails it to the address on file in your driving record. If you've moved recently, update your address at the facility before you leave so the license goes to the right place.
What if I find my original license after I've ordered a replacement?
You can still keep the replacement. The original license becomes invalid once you report it lost and request a replacement. Destroy the original if you find it to avoid confusion.