Can I Renew My Driver’s License Online In Illinois?

Being a resident of ‘the Prairie State,’ you may find it somewhat confusing to find out if you can renew your driver’s license online. And, seeing as knowing the whole process is essential, this article will guide you on how to do that in great detail.

Preparing For Renewal

Renewing the license is pretty straightforward, and you should do that only when it expires. Generally, a specific time frame is allotted for renewal to different age groups:

• 18-21- Three months after the 21st birthday
• 21-80- Every four years
• 81-86- Every two years
• 87 and older- Every year

But even if you struggle to remember exactly when to renew, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office sends a notice 60-90 days before the license expiration date. But before you even begin the process, you must ensure you have the following documents or do any of these things: 

A document that verifies your identity proof:

• Written signature (credit card; a court order; current driver’s license; court order)
• Date of birth (birth certificate; citizenship; adoption certificate; U.S. passport)
• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Residency (pay slip; utility bill; insurance policy; bank statement)
• Any legitimate out-of-state driver’s license or ID
• Clear any necessary tests (vision screening, road test)
• Your photos

Ways To Renew Your Driver’s License In Illinois

You can renew your license online, in person, or by email. However, not all drivers in Illinois are qualified for the online and by-mail renewal procedure.

Renewing Online

Renewing your driver’s license online at your comfort is the most suitable way. However, you’re only eligible to do so if you fulfil the following criteria. 

• If you have a clean driving record, your renewal letter will inform you whether or not you’re eligible for the online renewal procedure.
• The renewal notice contains a 14-digit authorization PIN.
• You are not required to take any necessary tests or submit any reports.
• Pay an online processing fee on top of the renewal cost.
• If you have a Real ID.
• Visit the Safe Driver Renewal portal and follow the prompts.

You’ll get an online copy of the document, which you can print out and use temporarily until the permanent license arrives within 15 business days by mail.

Renewing By Mail

Like the online renewal method, only some are eligible for this option. Your notice sent by the Secretary of State’s office will inform you if you can use this method to renew. If you are eligible, you just have to follow the steps mentioned in the notice. Once the procedure is complete, you will get your driver’s license by mail at the given address.

Renewing In-Person

Visit any Secretary of State driver’s license facility in your area and carry out the following steps:

• Fill out the application form available at the facility.
• Pass the vision screening test (a must during the in-person procedure). You would have to take vision, written, and road tests if your license expired more than a year ago.
• Show your current driver’s license to verify your identity. If there are changes in the information, present relevant documents to confirm those changes.
• Get your picture taken.
• Pay the required fee (cash, check, card).

You will receive a temporary paper license with a validity of 90 days until your permanent license arrives within 15 business days.

Getting A Real ID

As renewing online is the most convenient method, you might want a Real ID that works as a state identity, denoted by a golden star mark on the top right corner of the driver’s license. It can also replace your passport only in case of domestic air travel. Please note that a Real ID is not valid for international air travel.

To get one, you need to obtain the following documents:

• Identity proof, date of birth, and citizenship of U.S. or lawful status.
• Name change documents if your current name is different than the one on your identity proof document.
• Proof of your SSN (Social Security Number).
• Two proofs of your current residence.
• A document containing proof of your written signature.

Once the procedure is complete, you will get a temporary paper ID. Remember that the TSA will not accept this paper ID, and you’ll receive the Real ID via mail within 15 business days.

Summary

You can renew your driver’s license in Illinois, but there are prerequisites you must fulfill. You must have a good track record, and the DMV will specify in the renewal letter if you qualify for online renewal of your license. If you have your Real ID and PIN ready, you can simply log on to the Safe Driver Renewal portal and renew your license immediately. 

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