The cost depends on which license type you're getting and how long you want it to last

An Illinois driver's license costs between $20 and $142, depending on whether you want a standard license or a Real ID, and whether you're renewing or getting one for the first time. A standard license valid for four years costs $20. A Real ID—which you'll need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025—costs $142 for the same four-year period. If you're under 21, a standard license costs $20 and a Real ID costs $142. Renewal fees are the same as initial issuance fees.

You also need to account for the written test fee ($10) and the road test fee ($10) if you're a first-time driver. These are separate from the license fee itself. If you fail either test, you pay the fee again to retake it.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard four-year Illinois driver's license costs $20; a Real ID costs $142.
  • First-time drivers pay an additional $10 for the written test and $10 for the road test.
  • You pay the license fee when you pass your road test and visit a Secretary of State facility to get your license issued.
  • Renewal fees are the same as initial license fees, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.

What's included in the license fee

The $20 or $142 you pay covers the physical card itself, the background check, and the processing of your process. You don't pay anything extra for these services—they're all part of the single fee. The difference between the standard license and the Real ID is what the Real ID includes: it meets federal identification standards set by the Department of Homeland Security, which means it can be used for domestic air travel and federal facility access.

If you lose your license or it's stolen, replacing it costs $20 for a standard license or $142 for a Real ID. A duplicate (a second copy of your current license) costs $10.

When you actually pay the fee

You pay the license fee at the Secretary of State facility when you pass your road test and are ready to receive your physical license. You don't pay it when you schedule your tests or when you pass the written test. If you fail the road test, you don't pay the license fee—you only pay the $10 road test fee again when you retake it.

The Secretary of State accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most facilities. Some locations may have different payment options, so check the specific facility's website before you go.

Real ID versus standard license: the cost difference

The Real ID costs $122 more than a standard license ($142 versus $20). That extra cost covers the additional verification process required by federal law. When you explore for a Real ID, the Secretary of State verifies your Social Security number, citizenship or immigration status, and residential address more thoroughly than for a standard license.

You don't have to choose Real ID right away. You can get a standard license now and upgrade to a Real ID later by visiting a Secretary of State facility and paying the difference. However, after May 7, 2025, you'll need a Real ID or a passport to board a domestic flight, so many people choose to get it from the start to avoid a second trip.

Costs for drivers under 21

The license fee is the same for drivers under 21 as it is for adults: $20 for a standard license or $142 for a Real ID. However, if you're under 18, you must hold a permit for at least six months before you can take the road test. During that time, you can't renew your permit—you have to wait the full six months. This doesn't add to the cost, but it does extend the timeline.

Drivers under 21 receive a license with restrictions: you can't drive between midnight and 5 a.m. without a licensed adult 21 or older in the car, and you can't use a cell phone while driving. These restrictions lift when you turn 21, but you don't pay a fee to remove them—they're automatically removed.

Renewal costs and how to renew

When your license expires, renewing it costs the same as getting a new one: $20 for a standard license or $142 for a Real ID. You can renew online if you're renewing a standard license and meet certain conditions (your license hasn't been suspended or revoked, you haven't had a name change, and you're not changing your address). Online renewal costs $20 and takes about two weeks.

If you need to renew in person or by mail, the fee is still $20 or $142 depending on the license type. In-person renewal at a Secretary of State facility is usually faster than mail renewal. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks. You can't renew online if you're upgrading to a Real ID—you have to do that in person or by mail.

What happens if you don't have the fee

The Secretary of State does not offer payment plans or fee waivers for driver's licenses. You must have the full amount in cash or card form when you visit the facility. If you can't pay at that moment, you can schedule another appointment and return when you have the money.

Some community organizations and nonprofits in Illinois offer transportation information or emergency funds that may help cover licensing costs, but these are not run by the Secretary of State. You would need to contact your local social services office or 211 Illinois to find out what's available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the license fee if I fail the road test?

No. You only pay the $10 road test fee to retake it. The license fee is only charged when you pass the road test and receive your physical license card.

Can I get a Real ID later if I start with a standard license?

Yes. You can visit any Secretary of State facility and pay the difference ($122) to upgrade your standard license to a Real ID. You'll need to bring documents proving citizenship or immigration status, your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

What if I renew my license online but then need to change my address?

You can't change your address during an online renewal. You'll need to renew in person at a Secretary of State facility or by mail. The fee is still $20 for a standard license or $142 for a Real ID.

Is there a fee to remove the under-21 restrictions from my license?

No. The restrictions are automatically removed on your 21st birthday. You don't pay anything or visit a facility—your license straightforward becomes unrestricted.

What if my license is lost or stolen?

A replacement license costs $20 for a standard license or $142 for a Real ID. A duplicate (a second copy of your current valid license) costs $10 and is faster to get.