Where Can I Buy License Plate Stickers in Illinois?
by Tyler Castle
13.3 min read
Renewing your license plate sticker annually is a legal requirement in Illinois to keep your vehicle compliant and street legal. Delaying or forgetting to renew can lead to fines, tickets, and even suspensions.
In Illinois, all vehicles operating on public roads must be registered and display a valid license plate with a current registration sticker. Failure to renew your registration on time can result in penalties. Driving with expired registration may lead to fines and potential suspension of your license plates.
To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to renew your registration before it expires. The Illinois Secretary of State sends out renewal notices as a courtesy, but it’s ultimately the vehicle owner’s responsibility to ensure timely renewal.
This guide covers everything Illinois vehicle owners need to know, including where to buy stickers, associated fees, document requirements, and solutions to common issues.
Where Can I Buy License Plate Stickers in Illinois?
In Illinois, renewing your vehicle’s license plate sticker is essential for maintaining legal compliance. The state offers multiple convenient methods to buy/renew your license plate stickers in Illinois. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Online Renewal via the Illinois Secretary of State Website
The most efficient way to renew your license plate sticker is through the official Illinois Secretary of State’s online portal. To renew, you’ll typically need your Registration ID and PIN, which are typically located on your current registration card or renewal notice.
If you don’t have these, you can obtain them by contacting the Public Inquiry Division at 800-252-8980. Once your renewal is complete, you can expect to receive your new sticker within 5 to 10 business days. In the meantime, it’s advisable to keep the printed receipt in your vehicle as temporary proof of registration.
2. In-Person Renewal at Secretary of State Facilities
For those who prefer or require in-person assistance, you can visit any local DMV’s or Secretary of State Facility across Illinois. These facilities accept various payment methods to buy and renew license plate stickers in Illinois. You’ll need the same information for in-person renewal that you’ll need for online renewal – your registration ID, your renewal notice you’ve gotten in the mail, and valid form of payment.
Appointments are not usually required for this service, but checking ahead can save time.
3. Authorized Third-Party Vendors
Illinois also authorizes certain third-party vendors, such as currency exchanges and select public libraries.
to process license plate sticker renewals. These vendors utilize the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) system, which allows for immediate updating of your registration record and issuance of a new registration card at the time of purchase.
Keep in mind, these vendors may charge a service fee in addition to the sticker cost. The Illinois Secretary of State sets guidelines for these fees, and they can vary by location. a. For this renewal outlet, you’ll also need your renewal notice and your registration ID.
Most third-party locations offer license plate sticker renewals without an appointment.
Eligibility for Online Vehicle Registration Renewal in Illinois
Renewing your license plate sticker online is one of the most convenient options in Illinois. It saves you a trip—and the long wait lines—at the DMV. However, online renewal does come with some requirements. You can renew your registration online if:
- You have a current Registration ID and PIN: These are located on your renewal notice or current registration card.
- Your vehicle has passed an emissions test, if required. Note that this only applies to certain vehicles registered in the Chicago and Chicagoland areas. Emission test requirements vary from county to county and most tests must be conducted every two years on vehicles typically 4 years or older. Vehicles registered in these specific counties, including Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will, as well as parts of Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair counties require and emissions test.
Check your vehicle’s status and testing requirements at the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency website.
You cannot renew your registration online if:
- Your vehicle information is incorrect or outdated.
- Your renewal sticker needs to be mailed to an out-of-state address.
If you meet all these requirements, you’re good to go and you can buy a license plate sticker in Illinois!
How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Sticker in Illinois
If your Illinois license plate sticker is lost or stolen, you can obtain a replacement by completing the application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) form through the online portal on the Illinois Secretary of State’s website, in person, or by mail.
License plate sticker replacement typically costs around $20, while a replacement plate with a sticker costs $26. When replacing your license plate sticker, be sure to have your registration information ready to complete your request.
What Documents Do I Need to Bring When Buying a License Plate Sticker in Illinois?
First, you’ll need either your Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice or your current registration card. This paperwork includes important info like your registration ID, PIN, license plate number, and renewal date. But don’t worry—if you don’t have either of those documents, you can still move forward by providing your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and your license plate number if you renew in person.
Second, bring a valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID. This just confirms your identity when completing the transaction.
Third, have a form of payment ready. If renewing in person, most places accept cash, debit, or credit cards, though it’s a good idea to double-check with the location you’re visiting in case they have specific payment rules or fees.
If your vehicle is due for an emissions test (this usually applies if you live in certain Chicago metro area or surrounding counties), make sure it’s completed and passed before renewing your sticker as it’s required in order to receive your new sticker.
For Chicago residents, if you’re purchasing a City of Chicago vehicle sticker, you might also be asked for proof of residency—like a utility bill or lease agreement.
Lastly, if you’re eligible for a discounted rate through the Benefit Access Program (commonly for seniors or persons with disabilities), make sure you bring the required documentation to verify your eligibility.
How Much Are Stickers for License Plates in Illinois?
License plate stickers in Illinois cost around $151. If you have a personalized or vanity plate, the price will be a bit higher depending on the type you have. On top of that, there’s a $9.50 service fee added to each sticker, no matter the type.
When it comes to paying, keep in mind: you can pay with cash or a credit card only—no checks accepted. And once you’ve made the purchase, it’s final—no refunds, even if you change your mind later. So just make sure everything’s correct before you pay!
How Much Are License Plates in Illinois?
In Illinois, the cost of license plates varies based on the type of vehicle and the style of the plate. For standard passenger plates are used for most personal vehicles, including passenger cars, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), and vans weighing 8,000 pounds or less the annual renewal fee runs around $151. For a first-time issuance for a newly acquired vehicle it will cost you somewhere around $316.
If you’d like to customize your plate with a unique combination of letters and/or numbers, for your Illinois license plate, it’ll cost you around $158 for an annual renewal fee and $198 for a first-time issuance. Vanity plates come out to $164 for annual renewal and $245 for a first-time assurance.
These plates allow for custom letter and number combinations, with vanity plates offering more flexibility in design.
For Illinois motorcycle plates, the cost is much cheaper. Standard motorcycle license plate will cost you $41 to renew while personalized plates will cost you $48 and vanity plates will be $54.
Similarly, Illinois offers a variety of specialty plates, such as those supporting charities, organizations, or causes. Fees for these plates vary and often include additional charges that support the associated cause. For example, a Chicago White Sox license plate has an annual renewal fee of $178, which includes a $27 specialty plate fee. For an exact guide on how much license plates will cost you in Illinois, visit The Office of the Illinois Secretary of State’s website for more details on pricing.
Common Issues That Delay Sticker Renewal
Like anything, buying license plate stickers in Illinois will come with a waiting period. However, if your request is experiencing significant delays, here’s a few of the most common reasons this could be happening:
1. Outstanding Parking or Red-Light Camera Tickets
Before you can renew, the Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) system checks for any unpaid tickets. These include parking violations and red-light camera tickets reported by municipalities. Even a single unpaid fine can put a hold on your renewal so be sure to check with your local municipality or the Illinois Tollway before your renewal and pay off any outstanding fines so that you can receive your stickers in a timely manner.
2. Unpaid Tollway Violations
Like traffic tickets, unpaid tolls can contribute to a delay in receiving your new license plate stickers in Illinois. The Illinois Tollway and the Secretary of State’s office are connected through an enforcement agreement, meaning outstanding toll violations can put a hold on your vehicle registration and any renewals that come with it.
Before you submit your license plate sticker renewal request, visit this site to see where your tolls stand and pay off any remaining balance you have to receive your stickers in a timely manner.
3. Insurance Verification Issues
Illinois requires electronic verification of vehicle liability insurance. While rare, if your insurer hasn’t submitted up-to-date proof to the state’s database, your registration renewal may be denied. To troubleshoot this issue, contact your insurance provider to ensure your vehicle is properly insured and that your policy info has been reported to the state.
4. Emissions Test Failures or Expiration
In certain Illinois counties (such as Cook, DuPage, Lake, and Will), vehicles are required to pass an emissions test before registration renewal. If your car fails the test or hasn’t been tested yet, you won’t be able to renew. If you live in one of these counties and your vehicle is over 4 years old, you’ll likely need an emissions test. Find a nearby testing station here!
5. Incorrect or Outdated Address on File
If your address on file with the Secretary of State is incorrect, your renewal notice or sticker may be sent to the wrong place—or not arrive at all. Be sure to update your address online at the ILSOS Address Change portal. You can also update it by mail using the VSD 165 form. Make sure to update both your driver’s license and vehicle registration records separately.
6. Administrative Errors or Holds
Sometimes, a hold may be placed on your account due to identity mismatches, VIN discrepancies, or system errors—especially when ownership recently changed or a vehicle was transferred. Contact the Secretary of State’s office directly to resolve discrepancies.
7. Court-Imposed Suspensions or Holds
If your license is suspended due to DUI, reckless driving, or other court-related issues, your plate renewal may also be suspended. Check the status of your license at ilsos.gov or by calling their public inquiry line and resolve any pending court actions first before submitting payment for renewal.
What Happens During a Plate Renewal Suspension or Denial
In Illinois, your license plate renewal can be suspended or denied for several reasons. First, if your vehicle lacks the required liability insurance, your plates may be suspended. First-time offenders must provide proof of insurance and pay a $100 reinstatement fee. Repeat offenders face a four-month suspension and the same reinstatement fee.
Similarly, failure to pay court-imposed fines can result in a “Failure to Pay Fines” stop, preventing license renewal or information updates. To resolve this, you must pay the fines and obtain a receipt from the Circuit Clerk’s office.
Vehicles in certain counties are required to pass emissions testing. Failure to do so can halt your registration renewal. In all cases, you must resolve any fines or issues before you can renew your license plate stickers in Illinois. Failure to do so will likely result in a hold on your stickers until you resolve these issues.
How to Reinstate Suspended License Plates in Illinois
If your license plates have been suspended due to issues like insurance lapses or unpaid fines. A suspended license will definitely delay your process for renewing your license plate stickers. Reinstatement involves several steps:
- First, ensure your vehicle is covered by a statutorily required minimum liability insurance policy that meets Illinois’ minimum coverage requirements. Without active coverage, your registration cannot be reinstated.
- Next, you’ll need to pay a $100 reinstatement fee, which is required by the Illinois Secretary of State to process the reinstatement of your vehicle’s registration.
- Along with the payment, you must submit proof of your new insurance policy, such as a copy of your insurance card or policy declarations page.
- In addition to these steps, it’s crucial to resolve any outstanding violations or fees that may have triggered the suspension.
Once all requirements have been satisfied, you can remove the suspension by either visiting a Level III Driver Services facility in person or by contacting the Mandatory Insurance Division at 217-524-4946 for guidance on completing the reinstatement remotely.
Does Illinois Require a Front License Plate?
Yes, Illinois law mandates that most vehicles display both front and rear license plates. Failure to display both plates can result in a $164 fine issued by the Illinois Secretary of State.
This requirement applies to passenger vehicles, vans, and SUVs. However, certain vehicles, such as motorcycles and trailers, are only issued a single rear plate. Additionally, some specialty or antique vehicles may qualify for exemptions.
FAQs
Are There Discounts for Seniors or Veterans?
Yes, Illinois residents who qualify for the Benefit Access Program—including seniors and persons with disabilities—are eligible for a reduced license plate sticker fee of $10. This discount applies to one set of plates per household per year and covers standard passenger, B-truck, military, and recreational vehicles up to 8,000 pounds.
Veterans may also be eligible for special military plates. The Service-Connected Disabled Veteran (ISERVE) plates can be issued at no cost for the first set to qualifying veterans.
Can I Purchase a License Plate Sticker for a Family Member?
Yes, you can renew a family member’s license plate sticker if you have their Registration ID and PIN, which are found on their renewal notice or current registration card. These details are required to complete the transaction online or at a Secretary of State facility.
Can I Transfer My License Plate Sticker to Another Vehicle?
In Illinois, license plates are assigned to the vehicle owner rather than the vehicle itself. This means you cannot transfer the plates to someone else if you sell or gift your car. However, you are allowed to move the plates to another vehicle registered in your name.
Can I Change the Address on My Registration?
Absolutely! Illinois law requires you to update your address within 10 days of moving. You can change your address online through the Address Change portal. Note that you must update your driver’s license/state ID and vehicle registration separately, as they are maintained in different systems.
Staying informed about the license plate sticker renewal process in Illinois isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about keeping your vehicle legal, your routine uninterrupted, and your peace of mind intact. Taking a proactive approach ensures you’re always road-ready.
And while you’re taking care of your vehicle, why not take a moment to check in on your energy plan too? At Santanna Energy Services, we offer flexible and reliable energy plans designed for Illinois residents—giving you one less thing to worry about month after month.
See if you qualify for one of our energy plans here and keep your home running as smoothly as your vehicle.
Tyler is an experienced energy professional, having worked for Santanna Energy Services, for the past four years. He is passionate about renewable energy and believes that diversifying the energy grid is the key to a sustainable future. Tyler is dedicated to supplying consumers with the best possible energy solutions and works diligently to make sure that Santanna can deliver the highest quality service.
