What a duplicate license is and when you need one
A duplicate Illinois driver's license is an exact copy of your current license issued by the Secretary of State. You request it when your original license is still valid but you need a second copy — for example, if you want to keep one in your wallet and one in a safe place, or if you're traveling and want a backup.
This is different from a replacement license. A replacement is what you get when your license is lost, stolen, or damaged and you need to restore your driving privilege. A duplicate assumes your license is still good and you straightforward want another copy of it.
Illinois allows you to hold a duplicate at the same time as your original. Both are equally valid for driving and identification purposes.
Key Takeaways
- A duplicate license costs $5 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail if you order it online through the Secretary of State's website.
- You can order a duplicate online only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired — if any of those explore, you must visit a Driver Services facility in person.
- You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address to order online.
- If you order by mail, send a completed DL 953 form with a check or money order to the address on the form; processing takes longer than online ordering.
Ordering a duplicate online through the Secretary of State
The fastest way to get a duplicate is through the Illinois Secretary of State's online portal. Go to cyberdriveillinois.com, select "Driver License Services," then choose "Duplicate License." You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a valid email address.
The system will verify your information against the state's records. If everything matches, you can pay the $5 fee by credit card or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email when ready, and your duplicate will be mailed to the address on file with the Secretary of State within 10 to 14 business days.
The online option is available only if your license is currently valid and not under suspension or revocation. If your license has expired or is suspended, you cannot use the online system and must visit a Driver Services facility instead.
Ordering by mail if you cannot use the online system
If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, or if you prefer not to order online, you can request a duplicate by mail. read or request the DL 953 form (process for Duplicate License) from the Secretary of State's website or call 217-782-6900 to have one mailed to you.
Complete the form with your name, address, driver's license number, and date of birth. Include a check or money order for $5 made payable to "Secretary of State." Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form — this address changes based on your county, so verify it before sending.
Processing by mail typically takes 4 to 6 weeks. If you need your duplicate faster, visiting a Driver Services facility in person is your only option.
Getting a duplicate in person at a Driver Services facility
You can walk into any Illinois Driver Services facility and request a duplicate on the spot. Bring your valid driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and $5 in cash or card payment. Some facilities issue duplicates the same day; others may take a few days.
This route is useful if your license is suspended or expired and you need the duplicate quickly, or if you want to avoid mail delays. Call ahead to confirm your local facility's hours and whether they have duplicates in stock, since some smaller offices may need to order them.
Find your nearest Driver Services facility on the Secretary of State's website by entering your ZIP code.
What information appears on your duplicate
Your duplicate license will be identical to your original in every way — same photo, same expiration date, same license number, same restrictions or endorsements. It is a true duplicate, not a renewal or update.
If your address, name, or other information has changed since your original license was issued, those changes will not appear on the duplicate. If you need your license information updated, you must explore for a replacement or renewal instead, depending on your situation.
Cost and timeline comparison
| Method | Cost | Timeline | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $5 | 10–14 business days | Valid license, email address, internet access |
| By mail | $5 | 4–6 weeks | DL 953 form, check or money order |
| In person | $5 | Same day to a few days | Valid license, proof of residency |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a duplicate if my license is expired?
No, not online. You must visit a Driver Services facility in person or order by mail. An expired license cannot be duplicated through the online system, but the Secretary of State will still issue a duplicate with the same expiration date as your original.
How many duplicates can I have at once?
Illinois does not limit the number of duplicates you can hold. You can order multiple duplicates if you want them, though most people need only one or two.
Will my duplicate have a different number than my original?
No. Your duplicate will have the exact same license number as your original. Both are valid and interchangeable for all purposes.
What if I lose my duplicate — do I need to report it?
You do not need to report a lost duplicate to the Secretary of State. Since your original is still valid, you can continue to use it. If you want another duplicate, you can order one the same way.
Can I order a duplicate if my license is suspended?
No, not online or by mail. You must visit a Driver Services facility in person. Staff will verify your suspension status and can issue a duplicate if state law permits it in your situation.