The Des Plaines Secretary of State facility is on Touhy Avenue and handles standard driver's license and vehicle registration work

The Des Plaines office of the Illinois Secretary of State is located at 1500 East Touhy Avenue, Des Plaines, IL 60018. This facility processes driver's license renewals, replacements, and initial licenses, as well as vehicle registration and title services. It is one of several offices serving the Chicago metropolitan area, so you can choose this location or another nearby if it is more convenient.

The office does not handle all services. Certain transactions — like commercial driver's license (CDL) testing, hazmat endorsements, and some specialized vehicle titles — may require a trip to a larger regional facility or the main Chicago office. Before you go, confirm that your specific transaction is handled at Des Plaines by calling ahead or checking the Secretary of State website.

Key Takeaways

  • The Des Plaines office is at 1500 East Touhy Avenue and handles standard driver's licenses, renewals, and vehicle registration.
  • Hours vary by day and season, so check the Secretary of State website or call 217-782-2000 before you visit.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any documents related to your specific transaction — requirements differ for renewals, replacements, and new licenses.
  • Walk-in service is available, but arriving early or checking wait times online can save you time during peak hours.
  • Some services like CDL testing and hazmat endorsements are not available at this location and require a trip to a larger facility.

Hours and when to visit

The Des Plaines office is open Monday through Friday, with hours typically running from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though exact times can shift seasonally or due to staffing. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. Mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded than afternoons and Fridays.

Wait times can exceed an hour during peak periods, particularly near the end of the month or before holidays when people rush to renew licenses or register vehicles. If you can visit mid-week in the morning, you will likely spend less time waiting. The Secretary of State website sometimes displays current wait times for the Des Plaines location, so check before you leave home.

Documents to bring for a driver's license renewal

For a standard renewal, bring your current Illinois driver's license or ID card, proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

If you are renewing a license that has been expired for more than a year, you may need to pass a vision test and answer questions about your driving record. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them. Renewal fees vary depending on whether you want a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant card; REAL ID costs more but is required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting in 2025.

Documents to bring for a new or replacement license

For a first-time Illinois license or a replacement for a lost or stolen card, bring your Social Security number, proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state license), and proof of residency. You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test unless you are transferring from another state and have a valid license there.

If you are under 21, bring a parent or guardian. If you are explore for a REAL ID license, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax return showing your number, and two proofs of residency. The process takes longer for REAL ID because the office must verify your documents with federal databases.

Vehicle registration and title services

The Des Plaines office handles vehicle registration renewals, new registrations for recently purchased vehicles, and title transfers. For a registration renewal, bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and payment. For a new registration, bring the vehicle's title or bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a completed process for Illinois Vehicle Registration and Certificates of Title (Form VSD 190).

Title transfers require the signed title from the previous owner, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and payment. If the vehicle is financed, the lienholder's name will appear on the title, and you may need their permission to transfer it. Bring all documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for titles. Registration fees depend on the vehicle's weight and type; the office staff can calculate the exact amount once they see your vehicle information.

REAL ID and what it means for your visit

Illinois offers both standard driver's licenses and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for entering federal buildings and boarding domestic flights. Starting in 2025, a standard license will no longer be accepted for these purposes.

Getting a REAL ID at Des Plaines takes longer because the office must verify your birth certificate and Social Security information with federal agencies. Bring an original or certified birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax return, and two proofs of residency. The fee is higher than a standard license. If you do not need federal building or air travel access, a standard license is still valid for driving and state ID purposes.

Parking and accessibility

The Des Plaines facility has a parking lot with accessible spaces for people with disabilities. The building is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and seating areas inside. If you have mobility concerns or need accommodation, call ahead at 217-782-2000 to let staff know you are coming; they can sometimes arrange priority service or direct you to the most accessible entrance.

Public transportation is available via Pace bus routes that serve the Touhy Avenue area. If you are using transit, check the Pace website for current routes and schedules, as service can change seasonally.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

Some transactions can be completed by mail or online through the Illinois Secretary of State website. Driver's license renewals for people over 69 can often be done by mail if your license is not suspended and you have not had certain violations. Vehicle registration renewals can be completed online or by mail if the vehicle has no outstanding violations or liens.

If you need to renew in person but cannot reach Des Plaines, you can visit any other Illinois Secretary of State facility. The Chicago Loop office, Schaumburg office, and other regional locations handle the same services. Check the Secretary of State website to find the location nearest you and confirm hours before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Des Plaines office?

No. The Des Plaines office operates on a walk-in basis, and you do not need to schedule ahead. However, you can check the Secretary of State website for current wait times before you leave home, which may help you choose the best time to visit.

Can I renew my license online instead of going to Des Plaines?

Online renewal is available only for certain people — generally those over 69 with a valid license and no suspensions or violations. If you do not meet those criteria, you must visit in person. Check the Secretary of State website to see if you are may be able to access.

What if I need a REAL ID but do not have my birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from the county or state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks. Bring the certified copy to Des Plaines along with your Social Security card or tax return and two proofs of residency. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not be accepted.

Is the Des Plaines office the only place I can go in the Chicago area?

No. The Chicago Loop office, Schaumburg office, and other regional facilities handle the same services. You can visit whichever location is most convenient for you. All Illinois Secretary of State offices process the same transactions and charge the same fees.

What if the office is closed when I need to renew my license?

The office is closed on weekends and state holidays. If you need service outside regular hours, visit another Illinois Secretary of State facility that may have extended hours, or complete your transaction online or by mail if you are may be able to access. Check the Secretary of State website for locations and hours.