DD stands for Developmental Disability on Illinois licenses

The DD designation on an Illinois driver's license indicates that the holder has a documented developmental disability. This is a voluntary notation that you can request when you renew or replace your license. It does not restrict your driving privileges or mean you are not allowed to drive — it is straightforward a way to alert law enforcement and emergency responders that you have a developmental disability, in case you need additional support during a traffic stop or emergency.

The DD code appears in the "Restrictions/Endorsements" section of your license, usually printed in the lower portion of the card. Illinois allows this notation specifically so that first responders can provide appropriate information if you are stopped or involved in an accident. Having DD on your license is your choice; you do not have to request it.

Key Takeaways

  • DD on an Illinois license means you have a documented developmental disability and have chosen to disclose it to law enforcement and emergency personnel.
  • The DD notation does not restrict your ability to drive or change the rules of the road for you — it is informational only.
  • You must request the DD designation yourself; it will not be added automatically, even if you have a disability diagnosis.
  • To add DD to your license, you need medical documentation of a developmental disability and must request it at a Secretary of State facility during renewal or replacement.
  • Removing the DD designation is possible if your circumstances change — you can request removal at your next renewal or by visiting a facility in person.

How to request DD on your Illinois license

To add the DD designation to your Illinois driver's license, you will need to visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility in person. You cannot request this change online or by mail. Bring a completed process for Illinois Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 100) and medical documentation that confirms your developmental disability diagnosis.

The medical documentation should come from a licensed physician, psychologist, or other may have access to healthcare provider and must clearly state that you have a developmental disability. A letter from your doctor or a copy of your disability information from the Social Security Administration or Illinois Department of Human Services can work. The Secretary of State staff will review your documents and add the DD notation if everything is in order.

You can request DD when you renew your license, when you replace a lost or damaged license, or during a regular visit to update your address or other information. There is no additional fee to add the DD designation — it costs the same as a standard license renewal or replacement.

What DD does and does not do

The DD notation is informational only. It does not give law enforcement the right to stop you, search your vehicle, or treat you differently under traffic law. You still must follow all traffic rules and can still receive citations for violations. The purpose is to alert officers that you may need extra patience, clear communication, or information during an interaction.

DD does not restrict your driving privileges, limit where you can drive, or require you to take a special test. It does not appear on your driving record or affect your insurance rates. It is visible only on the physical license card itself and does not show up in the Secretary of State's database in a way that affects your legal status as a driver.

The notation may be helpful if you have difficulty communicating, become anxious during police interactions, or have other symptoms of your disability that might be misunderstood during a traffic stop. Some people find it reduces confusion and helps officers respond with appropriate support.

Medical documentation requirements

Illinois does not publish a specific form for the medical documentation, but the letter or report must come from a licensed healthcare provider and state clearly that you have a developmental disability. The document should include the provider's name, license number, contact information, and signature. A photocopy is acceptable — you do not need to bring the original.

Acceptable sources of documentation include a letter from your treating physician or psychologist, a copy of your Social Security Administration disability information letter, or a letter from the Illinois Department of Human Services confirming your disability status. If you receive services through a disability services agency, that agency may also be able to provide a letter on your behalf.

The Secretary of State staff will not accept documentation that is more than one year old, though this is not a strict rule — if your diagnosis is recent and clearly documented, older paperwork may still be accepted. If you are unsure whether your documentation will be sufficient, call your local Secretary of State facility before you visit.

Removing DD from your license

If you no longer want the DD designation on your license, you can request its removal at any time. You do not need new medical documentation to remove it — straightforward visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and ask to have the notation removed. You can do this during a renewal, when replacing your license, or during a separate visit.

Removal is free and takes the same amount of time as any other license transaction. You will receive a new license card without the DD notation. If you change your mind later and want to add it back, you will need to provide medical documentation again.

Where to request DD and what to bring

Visit any Secretary of State Driver Services facility in Illinois. You can find the location nearest you on the Secretary of State website. Bring the following:

  • Your current driver's license or state ID
  • Medical documentation of your developmental disability (letter from a doctor, psychologist, or disability agency)
  • Completed process for Illinois Driver's License or Permit (Form DL 100) — available at the facility or online
  • Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address)
  • Payment for license renewal or replacement (fee varies by license type; check the Secretary of State website for current amounts)

Processing times vary by facility, but most DD requests are completed the same day. You will receive your new license card with the DD notation in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license when ready, ask about the rush service options available at your facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will having DD on my license affect my car insurance or rates?

No. The DD notation is not reported to insurance companies and does not appear in any database that insurers access. It has no effect on your premiums or coverage.

Can I request DD if I have a mental health condition instead of a developmental disability?

The DD designation is specifically for developmental disabilities, which are lifelong conditions that affect intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Mental health conditions like depression or anxiety do not may have access to. If you have questions about whether your condition meets the definition, ask your healthcare provider or contact your local Secretary of State facility.

What happens if I move to another state — will DD transfer to my new license?

No. Each state has its own license format and notation system. If you move and get a new license in another state, you will need to request any similar notation through that state's process. Some states have comparable systems; others do not.

Do I have to tell my employer or anyone else that I have DD on my license?

No. The DD notation is between you and law enforcement. You are not required to disclose it to your employer, insurance company, or anyone else. It is your choice whether to tell people about it.

Can the Secretary of State deny my request to add DD if I have the medical documentation?

The Secretary of State will review your documentation to confirm it meets their standards — it must clearly state you have a developmental disability and come from a licensed provider. If the documentation is unclear or incomplete, they may ask you to provide additional information. If you are denied, you can ask why and request another review or bring updated documentation at your next visit.