What you need to renew your Illinois driver's license
Illinois lets you renew your driver's license in person at a Secretary of State facility, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through their website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people can renew without taking a new written test or vision exam, but the state will ask for proof of your current address.
Your license is valid for four years if you are under 69 years old, or two years if you are 69 or older. The Secretary of State sends renewal notices by mail about two months before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online at cyberdriveillinois.com if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name, address, or medical status since your last renewal.
- Mail renewal is available if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo, but processing takes two to three weeks.
- In-person renewal at a Secretary of State facility is required if your license is already expired, if you need a new photo, or if you cannot renew online or by mail.
- You will need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Renewal fees vary: online renewal costs less than in-person or mail renewal, and the cost depends on how many years you are renewing for.
Renewing online through the Secretary of State website
Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if you meet the requirements. You go to cyberdriveillinois.com, create or log into your account, and complete the renewal form. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card). The state charges a lower fee for online renewal than for other methods.
You cannot renew online if your license has already expired, if you need to change your address, if you have changed your name since your last renewal, or if you have reported a medical condition to the state. You also cannot renew online if you are over 69 years old — drivers in that age group must renew in person or by mail. After you complete the online form and pay, the state mails your new license to the address on file, which takes about one to two weeks.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. You request a renewal form from the Secretary of State by phone at 217-782-6900 or by visiting a facility in person. Fill out the form, include proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and mail everything to the address listed on the form along with your payment.
Processing by mail takes two to three weeks after the Secretary of State receives your materials. Your new license is mailed to you after approval. Mail renewal costs more than online renewal but less than in-person renewal in most cases. This method is useful if you prefer not to visit a facility but do not meet the requirements for online renewal.
Renewing in person at a Secretary of State facility
In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, or if you cannot use online or mail renewal. You can visit any Secretary of State Driver Services facility in Illinois. Bring your current driver's license (or expired license if your current one is lost), proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days, and your payment method. You do not need an appointment at most facilities, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
At the facility, you will have your photo taken, answer a few questions to confirm your information, and pay the renewal fee. The new license is printed on the spot or mailed to you depending on the facility. In-person renewal costs more than online or mail renewal. If you need to update your address, change your name, or report a medical condition, you must do it in person.
What documents to bring and address proof requirements
For any renewal method, you need proof that you currently live at the address on your license. The Secretary of State accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail (such as a tax form or court document) dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and current address. A cell phone bill, credit card statement, or pay stub usually does not count.
If you are renewing in person and need to change your address, bring proof of the new address as well. If you are renewing by mail or online and your address has changed, you must renew in person instead. Keep a copy of any documents you mail to the Secretary of State in case there are questions about your renewal.
Renewal fees and payment methods
Illinois renewal fees depend on the method you choose and how many years you are renewing for. Online renewal is the least expensive option. Mail and in-person renewal cost more, with in-person typically being the most expensive. Drivers 69 and older renew for two years at a time, while younger drivers renew for four years. The Secretary of State website lists current fees, which can change.
You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check (by mail only). If you renew in person, some facilities accept cash, but call ahead to confirm. Do not send cash by mail. If you pay by check, make it out to the Secretary of State and include it with your mail renewal materials.
What to do if your license is already expired
If your license has expired, you cannot renew online or by mail — you must visit a Secretary of State facility in person. Bring your expired license along with proof of your current address and your payment method. You will have your photo taken and answer verification questions. The process is the same as a regular in-person renewal, but the fee may be slightly higher because your license is past its expiration date.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Illinois, even if you have started the renewal process. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal (such as a confirmation email from online renewal or a receipt from a mail submission), but this does not may provide you will not be cited. Renew as soon as possible if your license is expired.
Scam alert: Fake renewal websites and unsolicited calls
Scammers create fake websites that look like the official Secretary of State site to steal your personal information and payment details. The real website is cyberdriveillinois.com — check the address bar carefully before entering any information. Do not click links in emails or texts claiming to be from the Secretary of State; instead, go directly to the official website by typing the address yourself.
You may receive calls or emails claiming you need to renew when ready or pay a fine. The Secretary of State does not call or email to demand payment. If someone contacts you claiming to represent the state and asking for money or personal information, hang up or delete the message. Report suspicious calls to the Illinois Attorney General's office at 877-424-1656. Never give your Social Security number, driver's license number, or payment information to someone who contacts you first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Online renewal is available if your license is not yet expired and you meet other requirements. Renewing early can be useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a rush closer to your expiration date.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
Online renewal takes one to two weeks for mailing. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks after the Secretary of State receives your materials. In-person renewal at most facilities results in your license being mailed within one to two weeks, though some facilities print it on the spot. Check with your local facility to confirm.
What if my address changed since my last renewal?
You must renew in person at a Secretary of State facility if your address has changed. Bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days. You cannot update your address through online or mail renewal.
Do I have to take a vision test or written test to renew?
No. Most renewal applicants do not take a written test or vision exam. However, the Secretary of State may require a vision test if they have concerns about your driving record or medical history. If you are renewing in person, staff will let you know if a test is needed.
What if I lost my current driver's license?
You must renew in person at a Secretary of State facility. Bring proof of your current address and your payment method. You do not need your old license to renew, but you will have a new photo taken. If you need a replacement license before your renewal date, you can request a duplicate license at the same visit.