How to Renew Your Illinois Driver’s License
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
Is your driver's license about to expire? Lots of drivers put off renewing their licenses, but it's better to complete the process on time. Otherwise, you can face late fees and other penalties, especially if you drive with an expired license.
Luckily, renewing your Illinois driver's license is simple. In this guide, learn all the details you need to know to renew your driver's license in Illinois—from eligibility and deadlines to fees and special situations.
Eligibility Requirements for Renewal in Illinois
Sixty to 90 days before your license is going to expire, you'll receive a renewal letter from the Secretary of State's office. This letter tells you which methods of renewal you can use.
You can renew your license even sooner if you wish. Two- and four-year licenses are eligible for renewal one year prior to expiration, and one-year licenses are eligible six months before expiration.
Renewal Methods: Online, In Person, or By Mail
Generally, Illinois drivers can renew their licenses online. However, you have to renew in person if you fit any of the following:
- You want to add a P.O. box as part of an Illinois DMV address update.
- You want to get a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other ID cards.
- You have to submit a new vision test or medical report.
- You have to take a road exam or a written exam.
Online
To complete your Illinois driver's license renewal online, follow these steps:
- Visit the Illinois Secretary of State website and navigate to the driver's license online renewal page.
- Enter your driver's license number or ID card number as well as the renewal authorization number/PIN from your renewal notice. Click Submit.
- Pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card.
Print out your confirmation to use until your new driver's license arrives.
You can also complete your Illinois car registration renewal online through the same website.
In-Person Renewal
If you want to renew your Illinois driver's license in person, follow these steps:
- Make an appointment at your nearest DMV office. There are no walk-in services for the renewal of a driver's license in Illinois.
- Gather the necessary documents.
- Submit your documents at your appointment and receive your temporary driver's license.
You'll get your new permanent driver's license in the mail within 15 business days. While you're at the DMV, you can also renew your Illinois car registration.
Renewal By Mail
If you cannot renew your license online or in person, you can request to do so by mail. Either mail a special request to the Secretary of State Special License and Re-Examination unit or call 217-782-2720.
Required Documents and Fees for Renewal
All you need to renew your license online is the authorization number from your renewal letter and your current driver's license. If you're renewing in person, you will also have to complete a vision screening.
The fee to renew a Class D license is $10.
REAL ID Compliance and What It Means for You
As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant ID to fly domestically in the United States. That can be a REAL ID driver's license. If you want to upgrade your license to a REAL ID during your renewal, make an appointment at your nearest DMV office. You'll need to bring additional proof of residency and identification to get your REAL ID, like your birth certificate or Social Security number. You may also need to pay an additional fee.
Special Renewal Cases to Know
Some special cases affect the renewal process slightly:
Senior Driver Renewal Rules
If you are 75 years or older, you will need to take a driving test each time you renew your license. Drivers over 80 have to renew their license every two years, and drivers over 86 must renew every year.
Late Renewal Procedures
If you don't renew your license before it expires, don't worry. You still have a year after the expiration date to renew it without needing to take any additional tests.
Renewing While Out of State
If you're out of state, try renewing your license online. Alternatively, you can contact the Secretary of State Special License and Re-Examination Unit to ask to renew your license by mail.
Tips to Avoid Renewal Delays and Penalties
Keep the renewal process running smoothly with these tips:
- Renew your license as soon as you get the renewal notice so you don't miss the deadline.
- Make sure you have an acceptable form of payment to cover the renewal fee.
- Schedule an appointment ahead of time if you're renewing in person.
- Check to see if you need to pass any exams based on your driving record, and if so, complete them as soon as possible.
Compare Car Insurance Options After Your Renewal
After you renew your license, it may be time to tick something else off the to-do list: securing great car insurance. Finding your ideal Illinois car insurance plan doesn't have to be time-consuming, either.
With EverQuote, you can compare customized car insurance plans in just minutes to find the best plan for your needs. Explore personalized car insurance options on EverQuote today.
FAQs
What do I need to do to renew my driver's license in Illinois?
+
What is the grace period for driver's license renewal in Illinois?
+
Can I walk in to renew my driver's license in Illinois?
+
Can I renew my license without my renewal notice in Illinois?
+
Premiums are sourced from over 30,000 zip codes across 200 insurance companies. We estimate premiums based on public filings for policies seeking 50/100 in liability with $500 deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. Estimated rates are based on a 35-year-old single female with a good credit score and no history of accidents or violations driving a 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE. We partner with Quadrant Information Services to source our data and assume no unique benefits or discounts are applied for these rates (unless otherwise stated). Your own rates may be different.