Illinois Driver's License Guide 2024

Table Of Content

This guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining, renewing, or replacing your Illinois driver’s license. Whether you’re a new resident or need to renew your current license, we’ve got you covered.

How Do I Get an Illinois Driver’s License?

To operate a vehicle in Illinois, possessing a valid initial or complete IL driver's license is mandatory. Here are the three stages you’ll have to go through to become a fully licensed driver:

1. Get a learner's permit. This license allows you to practice driving while supervised.
2. Apply for a teen license. This lets you drive unsupervised but with certain restrictions.
3. Get an adult driver's license. You can drive freely with no restrictions!

Read on for details on obtaining your learner’s permit and full license.

Different Driver's License Classes in Illinois

Here are the various classes of Illinois driver’s licenses.

Class D

This standard driver's license allows you to operate any non-commercial vehicle. With this license, you can drive passenger cars, pickup trucks, station wagons, utility vehicles, and panel trucks. You’re also legally allowed to operate single-motor vehicles and trailers. However, the gross weight of the vehicle mustn’t be greater than 16,000 lbs. Check out the official Illinois Driver’s Manual to pass your test with flying colors!

Class A and B

These classes are for operating commercial vehicles such as tractor-trailers and buses. Class A permits the operation of the heaviest vehicles, such as trucks or truck combinations. These vehicles are only allowed to have a maximum GVWR of 26,001 pounds. Class B allows the operation of straight trucks with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.

Class C

A Class C license typically allows the operation of single vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of at least 16,001 pounds but less than 26,001 pounds.

Class L/M

Class L permits you to operate motor-driven cycles with an engine capacity under 150 cc, while Class M is designated for standard motorcycles.

How to Get Started?

You must fulfill several requirements to obtain a Class D driver’s license. You must pass a written exam, vision test, hearing test, and driving test. Illinois has Graduated Driving Licensing laws for teenagers. Under these laws, they can start driving under safer conditions. Eventually, they gain full driving privileges. Here is a roadmap to getting your driver’s license according to your age:

• If you’re between 15 and 18, apply for a learner’s permit. This is if you’re a first-timer.
• If you’re a learner’s permit holder between 16 and 18, apply for a teen license.
• If you’re over 18, apply directly for your adult license.

How to Apply for an Instruction Permit in Illinois

The instruction permit is the first step in Illinois' Graduated Driver Licensing program for young drivers. It allows them to practice driving, but only under the guidance of an adult. Here are some conditions of the supervising adult:

• They must be at least 21 years old.
• They must have a valid driver's license.
• They should have at least one year of driving experience.

Foreign nationals without a Social Security Number can still be eligible for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License. Such individuals are also allowed to apply for a comparable instruction permit.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your instruction permit:

Apply at a Facility

To obtain an instruction permit, you need to visit a Secretary of State Facility in person. If you're eligible for a Temporary Visitor Driver's License, you can only get your instruction permit from specific facilities located in:

• Bloomington
• Champaign
• Carbondale
• Chicago North
• Chicago West
• Des Plaines
• Rockford Central
• Macomb
• Springfield at Dirksen Parkway

Bring Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• Legal name
• Residency in Illinois
• Signature
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number

Fill Out the Application Form

You'll need to collect the form in person at a Facility as it's not accessible online.

Come with Your Guardian or Parent

Your parent or guardian must accompany you to the Secretary of State Facility. They’ll have to sign a document allowing you to obtain your permit in front of an employee.

Note: Whoever signs the document will have the authority to cancel your license at any time before you turn 18.

Bring Your Driver’s Education Certificate

You must show proof of enrollment in an authorized driver's education program. This program must begin within 30 days. The program consists of 30 hours of classroom learning and 6 hours of practical driving experience, and it can be at a public high school or a certified external provider.

If you finished your Driver’s ED course elsewhere, contact the Secretary of State's office. Inquire if your out-of-state course completion is eligible for credit in Illinois.

Undergo a Vision Test

Pass the mandatory vision examination. The basic standard for eyesight is 20/40, whether you use glasses or not. If your vision is between 20/41 and 20/70, you're only allowed to drive during the day. If your test indicates the need for corrective lenses, you might be mandated to wear them while driving.

Pay the Permit Fee

Pay the $20 fee required for the application process. The payment can be made via cash, check, credit or debit card, or money order. If you get your driver's license before the instruction permit's expiration date, you won't be charged an additional fee.

Give and Pass a Written Knowledge Test

To obtain an Illinois driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test. You have three chances to pass your test after paying the application fee. The best way to be prepared for the exam is to thoroughly read the Illinois Driver’s Manual.

Photograph for License

Have your photograph taken for your driver's license.

Receive Your Temporary Learner’s License

You should expect to receive your permanent (plastic) permit via mail within 15 business days. If it doesn't arrive, you can verify its status by calling (217) 782-7044. Additionally, your instruction permit requires you to complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving. This must include 10 hours of nighttime practice.

How to Apply for the Illinois Teen License

According to the GDL, the second step for drivers below 18 years is applying for an initial teen license. The initial license, which could be a Class D or a Temporary Visitor Driver's License, permits unsupervised driving under certain conditions, albeit with considerable limitations.

Although this license offers young drivers more autonomy, it still comes with certain restrictions:

• Unsupervised Driving Curfew: No driving alone from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday to Thursday, and from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Local areas may enforce stricter curfews.
• Passenger Limitations: Only one non-family passenger under 20 is allowed for the first year or until age 18.
• Front Seat Passenger Rule: Post the initial year, limit of one front seat passenger.
• Cell Phone Restriction: No cell phone or mobile device is used while driving except during emergencies.
• Clean Record Requirement: A violation-free driving record is required for six months before turning 18; any infractions could prolong restrictions past the 18th birthday.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your initial teen license:

Keep Your Instruction Permit

Hold on to your learner’s permit for at least nine months without violations, accidents, or convictions.

Complete Your Driver’s ED Course

You're eligible to enroll in a driver's education program at any public high school that provides it or through an independent provider. The program consists of 30 hours of theoretical lessons and 6 hours of practical driving sessions.

After finishing the program, you'll be awarded a Certificate specifying the completion of the course, which you should submit to the Driver Services Facility.

Apply at a Facility

To obtain an instruction permit, you need to visit a Secretary of State Facility in person.

Log Your Supervised Driving

Accompany your parent or guardian to confirm you've completed a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night. If they can't accompany you, provide a notarized Affidavit/Consent for Minor to Drive form signed by them.

Bring Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• Legal name
• Residency in Illinois
• Signature
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number

Fill Out the Application Form

You'll need to collect the form in person, as it's not accessible online, by visiting a Secretary of State Facility.

Take the Driving Test

The Illinois driving test is conducted at a Secretary of State Facility without an appointment. You have three opportunities to pass it within one year of paying the driver's license application fee.

State-sanctioned driving exams can be administered by high school driver's education courses to students who excel. If you earn an A or B in the driver's ed course, present your CDT Certificate at the Facility. This may qualify you to bypass the road test.

Submit Your Instruction Permit

Handover your learner’s permit to the Facility employee.

Pay the Fee (If Required)

You don’t need to pay the $30 fee if you get your initial license before the expiry of your learner’s permit. If you have to pay the fee, you can do so by card, cash, or check.

Receive Your Temporary License

You should receive your permanent (plastic) Class D license by mail within 15 business days or a TVDL within 20 business days. If it doesn't arrive, you can check its status either online or by calling (217) 782-7044.

Upon reaching 18, the limitations on your unsupervised driving will be lifted, with the exception of cell phone usage. At 19, this final restriction is also removed, allowing you to use hands-free devices. Consequently, your initial license will afford you the same rights as a full adult license.

How to Apply for an IL Adult Driver’s License

To get a Class D or Temporary Visitor adult driver's license, you'll need to successfully complete a vision screening, a written test, and a road test. If you're 18 or older, there's no need for an instruction permit.

New to the process? Begin with Step 1.

Already have an instruction permit? Proceed to Step 6.

Here’s what you’ll need to do to get your full license:

Finish an Adult Driver’s Education Course

This requirement applies solely to individuals under 21. Those who have previously taken a driver's education course are exceptions. This 6-hour course can be completed either online or in a classroom setting. Moreover, it does not include any actual driving. Download your completion certification and submit it at the Facility.

Apply at a Facility

To obtain an instruction permit, you need to visit a Secretary of State Facility in person.

Bring Necessary Documentation

Collect and bring documents that verify your:

• Legal name
• Residency in Illinois
• Signature
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number (or a signed declaration if you’re ineligible)

Fill Out the Application Form

You'll need to collect the form in person, as it's not accessible online, by visiting a Secretary of State Facility.

Undergo a Vision Test

Pass the mandatory vision examination. The basic standard for eyesight is 20/40, whether you use glasses or not. If your vision is between 20/41 and 20/70, you're only allowed to drive during the day. If your test indicates the need for corrective lenses, you might be mandated to wear them while driving.

Give and Pass a Written Knowledge Test

To obtain an Illinois driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test. You have three tries to pass your test after paying the application fee. The best way to be fully prepared for the exam is to thoroughly read the Illinois Driver’s Manual and attempt Illinois Driver’s License Practice Tests here.

Pay for the License

You must pay the license fee according to the driver’s age:

• $5 for those between 18 and 20 and 69 and 80 years of age
• $30 for those between 21 and 68 years of age

You can pay the fee by cash, credit or debit cards, money order, or personal check. Please note that those with a valid instruction permit do not need to pay a fee.

Take the Driving Test

The driving test is conducted at a Secretary of State Facility without an appointment. You are allotted three opportunities to pass this test within one year from the date you pay the driver's license application fee.

State-sanctioned driving exams can be administered by high school driver's education courses to students who excel. If you successfully complete this exam and earn an A or B in the driver's ed course, you can present your Certificate at the Secretary of State Facility. This may qualify you to bypass the road test.

Surrender Your Instruction Permit

If you have an instruction permit (whether valid or expired), hand it over to the SSF employee.

Get Your Photograph Taken

You must have your photograph taken for your driver's license. This doesn’t apply to those with valid instruction permits.

Receive Your Temporary Learner’s License

You should expect to receive your permanent (plastic) permit via mail within 15 to 20 business days. If it doesn't arrive, you can verify its status by calling (217) 782-7044.

Note: The duration of validity for your license varies based on the license type and your age at issuance. A TVDL lasts for three years, expiring either on your birthday or with the conclusion of your U.S. visit, whichever occurs sooner. Renewal of a TVDL is not possible. To continue driving after its expiration, you must apply for a fresh one.

How to Renew and Replace Your Illinois Driver’s License

If your license is lost, damaged, or expired, you’ll have to replace it or renew it. The Secretary of State's office will mail you a notification 60 to 90 days before your license's expiration date prompting you to renew it.

You can renew your license at the Secretary of State Facility in person. However, in some cases, you may be eligible to renew it online or by mail. Walk-ins are entertained at all driver’s license facilities.

In Person

Here’s the process for renewing your license at a Secretary of State Facility in person:

1. Fill out your application form: You can do so at the Facility.
2. Provide verification for your identity: Bring a primary or secondary document. You must also bring your current driver’s license, SSN, and documents verifying your legal presence in the US or US citizenship. If you’ve changed your name, make sure you get Social Security to update your name. The DPS will verify this.
3. Pass your vision test: The standard for eyesight is 20/40, with or without glasses.
4. Show your current license for identity verification: If any changes have been made to your ID, verify them with supporting documents.
5. Get your photograph taken: This will be used on your new license.
6. Pay the license renewal fee: It can be paid by cash, check, or card and varies depending on your age:

• 21-68 years - $30
• 69-80 years - $5
• 81-86 years - $2
• 87 years and older - No fee

The Driver Services Facility will give you a temporary license that is valid for 90 days. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within 15 working days. If it doesn't, you can verify its status either online or by calling the helpline.

If you renew your license and have traffic convictions, you'll need to take a knowledge test every eight years. A road test may also be required if you have an accident listed on your driving history. If your license has expired for more than one year, you'll have to complete vision, written, and driving tests to renew it.

By Mail

You can only renew your license by mail if you’ve received a renewal letter from the Secretary of State Facilities. To do so, simply follow the instructions in the letter.

Once your renewal request has been handled, expect to receive your new license by mail from the Secretary of State's office within 15 business days. A temporary paper license won't be issued during this period. It's advisable to initiate the renewal process a minimum of 30 days before your current license's expiration to guarantee the timely arrival of the new one.

Online

You can renew your driver's license online or by phone if you meet the following criteria:

• You’re recognized as a "Safe Driver" by the Secretary of State's office.
• You possess the renewal letter with the included renewal authorization number.
• You don’t have to retake any tests.
• You agree to pay the renewal fee and a nominal fee for online payment processing.

Here’s how you can apply online for the renewal process:

1. Go to the Secretary of State's Safe Driver Renewal website.
2. Input the Renewal Authorization Number found on your renewal letter.
3. Adhere to the instructions provided on the screen.
4. Complete the payment for the renewal fee online using a card or direct checking account withdrawal.

The renewal fee is age-dependent:

• For ages 22–68: $30.00
• For ages 69–74: $5.00

Additionally, there is a small online transaction fee.

Follow these steps if you wish to renew your IL driver’s license via phone:

1. Dial (866) 545-9607 to access the Telephone Renewal System of the Secretary of State, operational 24/7.
2. When prompted, choose to renew a driver's license by stating "Driver's license."
3. At the following prompt, provide the Renewal Authorization Number located on your renewal letter.
4. Proceed to follow the subsequent instructions provided.

The Secretary of State's office will mail your new license, which should arrive within 15 business days. A temporary license will not be issued during this period. It's advisable to initiate the renewal process at least 30 days before your current license's expiration date. This will help ensure the timely receipt of the new one.

How to Get an Illinois Driver's License: A New Resident’s Guide

To legally drive in Illinois as a new resident, you must change your current license to an Illinois driver's license no later than 90 days after establishing residency.

How to Determine Illinois Residency

Are you unsure about your residency status in Illinois? Well, it’s quite simple. You're deemed a resident if your stay is for reasons beyond just a temporary visit.

What If I Have a Valid Out-of-State License?

Even with a valid out-of-state license, you'll need to complete a vision screening and a written test. A practical driving test may also be necessary if your license has expired.

Here’s the process to follow to get your IL license:

Apply at the DMV

You must visit the Secretary of State facility to get your license transferred in person. Please bear in mind that not all centers offer the same services, so ensure to check before visiting.

Bring the Required Documentation

You must come with documents to verify the following:

• Your signature
• Your Social Security number
• Your legal name
• Your date of birth
• Proof of residency in Illinois
• Change of name (if required)

Fill Out Your Application

You cannot obtain this form digitally; it must be collected in person from a Secretary of State Facility.

Pass Your Vision Exam

You must have a 20/40 visual acuity. This is with or without corrective lenses. If your vision is worse than 20/40, you'll need to see an eye specialist. Drivers who have a visual acuity ranging from 20/41 to 20/70 are restricted to operating vehicles during daylight hours only. This limitation ensures that driving conditions are optimal for their level of vision.

Pass the Written Examination

You can take this without an appointment. It's advisable to prepare beforehand through online practice. You are given up to three attempts to succeed within one year from the date you pay the fee for your permit or license.

Submit Your Out-of-State License

Pay for the License

You must pay the license fee according to the driver’s age:

• $5 for those between 18 and 20 and 69 and 80 years of age
• $30 for those between 21 and 68 years of age

You can pay the fee by cash, credit or debit cards, money order, or personal check.

Have Your Photograph Taken

Get your picture taken. Smile for a cute photograph!

You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 90 days. The permanent plastic license is typically mailed within 15 business days. If it doesn't arrive on time, check the status online or contact the Facility to inquire about the delay.

What If I Have a Valid Foreign License?

If you’ve moved to Illinois from another country, you’ll need a local driver’s license to get around! Exchanging your foreign license for an Illinois one is similar to applying for an out-of-state license. However, there are two notable exceptions:

• You may need to undergo a driving test. Contact the Illinois Secretary of State's office to determine your exemption from the driving test. They will inquire about your existing foreign license and driver's education to do so.
• If you are not a U.S. citizen, you are not obligated to hand over your foreign driver's license.