Illinois Issues Driver's Licenses to People Without Legal Immigration Status

Illinois allows you to obtain a driver's license without proof of legal immigration status. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a Social Security number. The state issues what is called an REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a standard driver's license to anyone who meets the state's residency and identification requirements, regardless of immigration status.

This policy has been in place since 2013 under Illinois law. The license functions the same way as any other Illinois driver's license for the purpose of driving — it proves your identity and your right to operate a vehicle in the state. However, it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building, because it does not certify legal status.

Key Takeaways

  • You can obtain an Illinois driver's license without a Social Security number, passport, or proof of legal immigration status.
  • You must prove Illinois residency with documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days.
  • You must pass a written test, vision test, and road test, the same as any other applicant.
  • The license costs the same as a standard Illinois license and is valid for four or eight years depending on your age.
  • An Illinois driver's license cannot be used for federal purposes like domestic air travel, even though it is valid for driving.

Documents You Need to Bring to the Secretary of State

You will need to bring documents that prove your identity and that you live in Illinois. The Secretary of State accepts a range of documents — you do not need a passport or Social Security number.

For proof of identity, you may bring a passport (from any country), a consulate ID card, a Mexican matricula consular card, a foreign driver's license, a birth certificate, or a state ID from another state. If you bring a foreign document, it does not need to be in English, but you may be asked to provide a translation.

For proof of Illinois residency, bring a document dated within the past 60 days that shows your name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. A pay stub with your address also works. You need only one document.

You will also need to provide your date of birth and current address. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the Secretary of State employee. They will issue your license without one.

The Testing and Licensing Process

Once you have submitted your documents, you will take the same tests as any other applicant. First is a written knowledge test covering Illinois traffic laws and road signs. You can request the test in Spanish or another language if English is not your first language. The Secretary of State offers study materials online and at driver services facilities.

Next is a vision screening. You must be able to read a standard eye chart. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.

Finally, you will take a road test with an examiner. You must demonstrate that you can operate a vehicle safely. You will need to bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but the person whose name is on the registration must be present.

If you fail any test, you can retake it. There is no limit to the number of attempts, though you may have to pay a retest fee each time.

Fees and License Validity

An Illinois driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license. These are the same fees charged to all applicants. You pay at the time you explore.

Your license will be valid for four or eight years from the date of issue, depending on which term you choose. When it expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a Secretary of State facility. Renewal does not require you to retake the tests.

Where to explore and How Long It Takes

You explore at any Secretary of State driver services facility in Illinois. There are locations in most counties. You can find the nearest one on the Secretary of State website by entering your ZIP code.

You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some facilities allow you to schedule one online. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday typically means a shorter wait.

Your license will be issued on the same day you pass all tests, unless there is a problem with your documents. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you. The plastic card usually arrives within two to three weeks.

What Your License Can and Cannot Be Used For

Your Illinois driver's license is valid for driving anywhere in the United States. Police will accept it as proof of your right to operate a vehicle. You can use it to rent a car, buy gas, or prove your identity in most everyday situations.

However, your license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access certain find facilities. If you need to fly domestically, you will need a passport or a REAL ID-compliant document from your country of origin.

Some private businesses, like banks or retailers, may ask for additional identification beyond a driver's license. Your license alone may not be enough to open a bank account or sign a lease, depending on the business's policies.

Renewing Your License

When your license is about to expire, you can renew it without retaking the tests. You can renew online through the Secretary of State website if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes. Online renewal costs $20 for a four-year license.

You can also renew by mail by sending your current license and a check to the Secretary of State, or in person at any driver services facility. In-person renewal takes the same amount of time as a new license process.

If your address has changed, you must renew in person or by mail, not online. Bring the same proof of residency documents you brought for your original license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to get an Illinois driver's license?

No. You can obtain a license without a Social Security number. When you explore, straightforward tell the Secretary of State employee that you do not have one. Your license will be issued normally.

Can I use my Illinois driver's license to fly on an airplane?

No, not for domestic flights. Your Illinois driver's license is not REAL ID-compliant and cannot be used to board a domestic airplane. You will need a passport, passport card, or other federal-approved document. Check the TSA website for a full list of acceptable documents.

What if my foreign documents are in a language other than English?

You can bring them as they are. The Secretary of State may ask you to provide an English translation, but you can often find translation services at community organizations or online. Some Secretary of State facilities have staff who can help.

How long does it take to get my plastic license card in the mail?

Your plastic card usually arrives within two to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license on the day you pass your tests, which you can use to drive when ready. If your card does not arrive after four weeks, contact the Secretary of State to check the status.

Can I renew my license online if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can renew online only if you originally obtained your license without a Social Security number and your address has not changed. If you are unsure, call the Secretary of State or visit a driver services facility to confirm before attempting an online renewal.