How to Get a Driver’s License in Illinois: What New and Out-of-State Residents Need to Know

Key Points of This Article:

• New Illinois residents generally must obtain an Illinois driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency or before their current license expires, whichever comes first.  

• Applicants should choose between a standard license and a REAL ID, gather the required identity and residency documents, and apply in person at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility.  

• After moving, residents should also update their vehicle registration, insurance, mailing address, and essential home services. 

Moving to Illinois and wondering if you need to switch your driver's license? Between figuring out which documents to bring, whether you need a REAL ID, and which tests may be required, it's easy for this task to become another confusing item on an already busy moving checklist.  

We know moving comes with plenty of things to get in order, so we're here to help make one of those tasks easier. In this guide, you'll learn how to get an Illinois driver's license as a new resident, which documents and tests you may need, and what to expect when you apply. Let's get started! 

How to Get a Driver's License in Illinois 

To get an Illinois driver's license as a new resident, you'll need to apply at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility, provide the required documents, complete the required exams, surrender your out-of-state license, and pay the applicable fee. The process is easier when you know what to prepare before your visit.  

Here's how to get your Illinois driver's license from start to finish:  

Step 1: Choose Between a Standard Driver's License and REAL ID  

Decide whether you want a standard Illinois driver's license or a REAL ID before gathering your documents. Both allow you to drive legally, but REAL ID can also be used for certain federal identification purposes and is required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings and military bases.  

You can spot a REAL ID by the star in the corner! 

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents  

You'll need documents that verify your identity, date of birth, Social Security number (when applicable), written signature, and Illinois residency. REAL ID applicants need further paperwork, so check the requirements for the license you've chosen before your visit.  

Step 3: Find a Driver Services Facility  

Find an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility that offers the service you need. Check its hours and whether an appointment is required before heading out, since services may differ by location.  

Step 4: Complete the Required Exams  

New residents transferring a valid out-of-state license should be prepared to complete the required vision screening and written exam. Reviewing the current Illinois Rules of the Road before your visit can help you prepare.  

Step 5: Take a Driving Exam if Required  

A driving exam may be required depending on your circumstances and the Secretary of State's requirements. If one is required, make sure you understand what you'll need to bring and what to expect before your appointment.  

You'll usually be required to a driver's exam if you're getting your driver's license for the first time, your license is expired, suspended or revoked, you're a senior driver that's over the age of 87, or you have multiple moving violations, or medical conditions like seizures or vision problems. 

Those with a valid out-of-state license are not required to take a driving exam to obtain an Illinois license, only a vision test. 

Step 6: Surrender Your Out-of-State License (if you have one) 

You'll need to surrender your out-of-state driver's license before receiving your Illinois credential. Don't throw away or destroy your old license beforehand. Bring it with you to the Driver Services facility.  

Step 7: Pay the Applicable Driver's License Fee  

Pay the fee for your Illinois driver's license after completing the applicable requirements. The amount may vary depending on your age and license status, so check the current Illinois Secretary of State fee schedule before you go. A basic driver's license will cost you $30.  

Step 8: Receive Your Temporary Driver's License  

Once you've completed the process, you'll receive a temporary secure paper driver's license. You can use this credential while your permanent Illinois driver's license is produced and mailed to you.  

Before heading to the facility, go through your documents one more time. A missing proof of residency or other required document could mean another trip, so a quick check at home can save you time later. 

What Documents Are Needed to Get an Illinois Driver's License? 

The documents you need for an Illinois driver's license depend on whether you're a new Illinois resident transferring an out-of-state license or you already have an Illinois license. Requirements also differ if you're applying for a REAL ID. 

What Documents Does a New Illinois Resident With an Out-of-State License Need? 

If you've moved to Illinois and are transferring a valid out-of-state driver's license, bring your current out-of-state license and qualifying documents that prove:  

• Written signature: Examples include a qualifying driver's license, U.S. passport, Social Security card, or credit or debit card.  

• Date of birth: Examples include a birth certificate, U.S. passport or passport card, or qualifying immigration document.  

• Social Security number: Examples include a Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099, or a qualifying pay stub showing your full Social Security number.  

• Illinois residency: Examples include a lease, bank statement, qualifying utility bill, insurance policy, or pay stub showing your Illinois address.  

For your first standard Illinois driver's license, you'll generally need one qualifying document for each requirement, although one document may sometimes satisfy more than one requirement. 

What Documents Does a Current Illinois Resident Need? 

If you already have an Illinois driver's license, the documents you need depend on what you're doing with your license, such as renewing, replacing, or correcting it.  

You may be asked to provide documents verifying your identity, Social Security number, written signature, or Illinois residency. However, you won't necessarily need to bring all the documents required for a first Illinois license.  

Check your renewal notice or the Illinois Secretary of State's requirements for your specific service before visiting a Driver Services facility. 

What Documents Do You Need for an Illinois REAL ID? 

For your first Illinois REAL ID, you'll need qualifying documents that prove:  

• Identity and date of birth  

• Lawful status  

• Social Security number, when applicable  

• Written signature  

• Illinois residency, with two qualifying documents showing your Illinois address  

The biggest difference for most new residents is the need to provide proof of residency. A first REAL ID requires two qualifying Illinois residency documents, while a first standard driver's license requires one.  

Note that a REAL ID is required to board domestic flights and to enter government buildings and military bases. If any of this applies to you, a REAL ID should be something you should consider getting. 

If your current name doesn't match the name on your identification documents, you'll also need qualifying name-change documentation connecting the names. 

Can a Utility Bill Be Used as Proof of Illinois Residency? 

Yes, a qualifying utility bill can be used as proof of Illinois residency if it was issued within 90 days of your application and shows your full name and Illinois residential address.  

Qualifying utility bills can include:  

• Electricity  

• Natural gas  

• Water  

• Refuse service  

• Landline or cell phone service  

• Cable  

This can be helpful when you've just moved. For example, once your electricity or natural gas service is set up at your new home and you receive a qualifying bill in your name, you can use it as one of your residency documents.  

If you're applying for a REAL ID, remember that a single utility bill alone isn't enough to meet the residency requirement. You'll need two qualifying documents showing your Illinois address. Always check the Illinois Secretary of State's current acceptable-document list before your visit to make sure the documents you plan to bring qualify. 

How to Get an Illinois Driver's License From Out-of-State 

If you currently live in Illinois but still have a driver's license from another state, you'll need to replace it with an Illinois driver's license once you've established residency.  

Step 1: Be Timely  

New Illinois residents generally have 90 days after establishing residency to get an Illinois driver's license. Make sure you apply before the 90-day period ends.  

Also, check the expiration date and status of your current driver's license before you apply. Different requirements may apply if your out-of-state license has expired, been suspended, or has been revoked.  

If your license is no longer valid, check with the Illinois Secretary of State before visiting a Driver Services facility to ensure you know which requirements apply to you.  

Step 2: Gather Proof That You Live in Illinois  

You'll need to prove that you now live in Illinois when applying for your license. Common qualifying documents include a utility bill, bank statement, lease, or pay stub.  

A first standard Illinois driver's license generally requires one qualifying residency document, while a first REAL ID requires two. You'll also need the other identification documents required for your license type.  

Step 3: Apply in Person at a Driver Services Facility  

You must apply for your Illinois driver's license in person at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility. You can't transfer your out-of-state license completely online.  

Before you go, make sure the facility provides the service you need and check whether an appointment is required.  

Step 4: Bring and Surrender Your Out-of-State License  

Bring your current out-of-state driver's license with you when you apply. You'll need to surrender it as part of getting your Illinois driver's license, so don't throw it away or destroy it beforehand.  

If you've already been living in Illinois for close to or more than 90 days, or your out-of-state license is no longer valid, check the Illinois Secretary of State's New Residents guidance before your visit to confirm what requirements apply to you. 

How Long Do You Have to Get an Illinois Driver's License After Moving? 

If you permanently move to Illinois, you must get an Illinois driver's license within 90 days of becoming a resident or before your current driver's license expires, whichever comes first. During that time, you can continue driving with a valid driver's license from your previous state or country.  

For example, if you move to Illinois and your out-of-state license is valid for another year, you generally have up to 90 days to get your Illinois license. But if your current license expires in 30 days, you should get your Illinois license before that expiration date rather than waiting the full 90 days.  

This rule applies when you've permanently moved to Illinois. If you're visiting or driving through the state, you can generally continue using a valid driver's license from your home state or country.  

Try not to wait until the last minute. You'll need time to gather the required identification and proof of Illinois residency, and you may need to prepare for required testing. Taking care of your license early can make one important part of moving into your new Illinois home easier. 

What If Your Out-of-State License Is Expired? 

If your out-of-state driver's license is expired when you move to Illinois, you may have to complete additional testing instead of following the standard transfer process for a valid license. Depending on your situation, Illinois may require a written exam, driving exam, or both, in addition to the required vision screening.  

You'll still need to apply in person and bring the identification and Illinois residency documents required for your license type. Because the exact testing requirements can depend on the status of your previous license and driving record, check with the Illinois Secretary of State before your visit.  

If your out-of-state license is close to expiring, try to apply for your Illinois license while it is still valid. This can help simplify the transfer process. 

Where Can You Get an Illinois Driver's License? 

You can get an Illinois driver's license at an Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility that offers the service you need. Facilities are located throughout the state, but services and appointment requirements vary by location, so check your location before visiting.  

Here are several Driver Services locations in major Illinois cities and areas:

Before you go, check the facility first. Not every location offers the same services, and many locations require appointments for Driver Services. Use the Illinois Secretary of State Facility Finder to find the closest appropriate location and confirm its services and appointment requirements. 

What Tests Do You Need to Take to Get a Driver's License in Illinois? 

The tests you need to get an Illinois driver's license depend on whether you're a first-time driver or you're transferring a valid driver's license from another state. 

What Tests Do First-Time Illinois Drivers Need to Take?  

If you're an Illinois resident getting your driver's license for the first time with no previous license in any other state, you'll generally need to complete:  

• Vision Screening: The vision screening checks whether you meet Illinois's minimum eyesight requirements for driving. The basic standard is at least 20/40 visual acuity, with or without corrective lenses. If you normally wear glasses or contact lenses when driving, bring them to your Driver Services visit.  

• Written Exam: A written exam is not generally required when transferring a valid out-of-state license, but Illinois may require one in certain circumstances. If you do need to take it, the exam has 35 questions, and you must answer at least 28 correctly to pass. It covers Illinois traffic laws, road signs, signals, and safe-driving rules.  

• Driving Exam: A driving exam is not routinely required when you're transferring a valid out-of-state license, but it may be required depending on your circumstances.  

Your age may add other requirements, such as driver education and supervised driving for ages 16–17, or a six-hour Adult Driver Education Course for certain first-time drivers ages 18–20.  

What Tests Do New Illinois Residents With an Out-of-State License Need?  

If you're moving to Illinois with a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you generally only need to pass a vision screening when getting your Illinois license.  

A written or driving exam may be required in certain circumstances, such as when a traffic crash or moving violation appears on your driving record. 

How Much Is a Driver's License in Illinois? 

A basic Illinois driver's license costs $30 for most adults ages 21 to 68, but the fee varies by age and the type of license or service you need. For example, drivers ages 18 to 20 pay $5, while drivers age 87 and older can receive a driver's license for free.

For most new Illinois residents transferring a regular driver's license, the $30 fee for drivers ages 21 to 68 is the one most likely to apply. Your cost may differ if you're younger or older, are getting a commercial license, are adding a motorcycle classification, or are requesting another type of license service.  

Fees can change, so it's worth checking the Illinois Secretary of State's current driver's license fee schedule before your visit. 

How Much Is a Replacement Driver's License in Illinois? 

A replacement Illinois driver's license generally costs $5, which the Illinois Secretary of State lists as the fee for a duplicate or corrected driver's license or permit.  

You may need a replacement if your current Illinois driver's license is lost, stolen, or damaged. A replacement gives you another copy of your current license. It is different from a renewal, which extends your license as it nears expiration.  

If you've recently moved to Illinois and still have an out-of-state license, you aren't replacing a license. You'll need to apply for an Illinois driver's license as a new resident and complete the applicable transfer requirements. 

To get a replacement license, you can do so online through the Illinois Secretary of State duplicate license portal. 

How Long Does It Take to Get Your Illinois Driver's License? 

After you complete the application process, your permanent Illinois driver's license is generally mailed to you within 15 business days. You won't usually leave the Driver Services facility with the permanent card in hand.  

Instead, you'll receive a temporary secure paper driver's license to use while your permanent card is being produced and mailed. The temporary license is valid for 90 days and should be kept with you when you drive until your permanent license arrives.  

The amount of time you spend completing the application itself can vary depending on the facility, required testing, and whether you arrive with all the correct documents. Bringing everything you need the first time can help you avoid another visit and avoidable delays.  

If your permanent license hasn't arrived within 15 business days, check its status or contact the Illinois Secretary of State for assistance. 

Can I Renew My Driver's License Online in Illinois? 

Yes, some Illinois drivers can renew their driver's license online, but you must be eligible for online renewal. A driver is eligible for online renewal if they receive a renewal letter from the Illinois Secretary of State that includes a PIN or Renewal Authorization Number. Drivers who need an in-person service, such as required testing or an updated medical or vision report, must renew at a Driver Services facility instead.  

You generally won't qualify for online renewal if your situation requires an in-person visit, such as when you need to perform required testing or make certain changes to your license. If your renewal notice says you're eligible, you can follow its instructions to renew through the state's online system.  

If you've just moved to Illinois and have an out-of-state license, online renewal doesn't apply to you. You'll need to follow the process for getting your first Illinois driver's license instead. 

How Early Can I Renew My Driver's License in Illinois? 

You can renew an Illinois driver's license up to 1 year before a 4-year or 2-year license expires, or up to 6 months before a 1-year license expires. The Illinois Secretary of State typically sends a renewal notice before your expiration date, giving you time to review your renewal options and requirements.  

Renewing early can be helpful if you'll be traveling, moving, or want to take care of it in advance. Your renewal notice will also indicate whether you are eligible to renew online.  

Depending on your driving record or age, additional testing may be required. Drivers with traffic convictions must take a written exam at least once every eight years, and an accident on your driving record may require a written or driving exam. As of July 1, 2026, drivers age 87 and older must take a driving exam and renew their license annually.  

Keep in mind that renewal applies to people who already have an Illinois driver's license. If you've recently moved to Illinois and still have an out-of-state license, you'll need to apply for your first Illinois driver's license rather than renew your old one. 

Moving to Illinois? Other Things to Update After You Arrive 

After getting your Illinois driver's license, you'll also want to update important records and set up essential services for your new home. Taking care of these early can make settling into Illinois much easier.  

A few important things to check include:  

• Vehicle title and registration: New residents generally have 30 days to title and register their vehicle in Illinois.  

• Auto insurance: Let your insurance company know you've moved and make sure your coverage meets Illinois requirements.  

• Mailing address: Update your address with your bank, employer, insurance providers, and other important accounts.  

• Electricity and natural gas: Make sure energy service is set up at your new home before move-in day. In eligible Illinois areas, you may also have the option to choose your electricity or natural gas supplier.  

• Other home services: Set up or transfer services such as water, internet, and waste collection as needed.  

Getting these basics handled early means fewer loose ends while you settle into your new Illinois home. 

What Do I Do If I'm Moving Within Illinois and Just Need to Change the Address on My License? 

If you're moving within Illinois and simply need your license address updated, you must notify the Illinois Secretary of State's office within 10 days of moving within the state and to update your online driver's license record, visit the free online portal to do so. 

To update your physical driver's license with your new address, you must visit your local DMV in person to do so; this cannot be done online. 

FAQs  

Do I Need Proof of Address to Get an Illinois Driver's License?  

Yes, you need proof of Illinois residency when applying for your first Illinois driver's license. A first standard license generally requires one qualifying residency document, while a first REAL ID requires two.  

Do I Need a REAL ID to Drive in Illinois?  

No, you do not need a REAL ID to drive in Illinois legally. A standard Illinois driver's license is enough. A REAL ID is only needed if you want to use your license for certain federal purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or entering certain secure federal facilities. You can also use another accepted ID, such as a valid U.S. passport.  

Do You Need an Appointment to Get an Illinois Driver's License?  

Yes, appointments are required for driver's license services at many Illinois Secretary of State facilities, but requirements may vary by location and service. Before you go, check the specific Driver Services facility to confirm whether you need an appointment and whether it offers the service you need. You can check availability and schedule through the Illinois Secretary of State's official appointment system.  

Can I Keep My Out-of-State Driver's License?  

No. When you obtain an Illinois driver's license, you must surrender your out-of-state driver's license or ID. Bring your current out-of-state license with you when applying rather than discarding it beforehand.  

What If My Name Is Different on My Documents?  

If the name on your identification documents differs from your current name, you may need to provide official paperwork documenting the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Check the Illinois Secretary of State's acceptable-document requirements before your visit.  

How Long Do New Illinois Residents Have to Register Their Vehicle?  

New Illinois residents generally have 30 days to title and register their vehicle and 90 days to get an Illinois driver's license after establishing residency. These are separate requirements, so completing one does not complete the other.  

Getting an Illinois driver's license after moving doesn't have to be complicated, but it does take some preparation. Remember to apply within the required timeframe, gather the right identification and residency documents, check whether you need an appointment, and know which tests apply to you. Taking care of these details early can make one more item on your moving checklist easier to handle.  

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Here's to checking off the last few boxes and feeling at home in Illinois. 

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