USA Illinois Driver License

How to Get a USA Illinois Driver License (DL) – Complete Guide

If you’re planning to live or drive in Illinois, obtaining a USA Illinois Driver License (DL) is a legal requirement. Whether you’re a new driver, a resident moving from another state, or an international applicant, this guide outlines everything you need to know to get your Illinois license quickly and easily.

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Who Needs an Illinois Driver License?

Illinois law requires any resident who wants to operate a motor vehicle on public roads to hold a valid Illinois driver license. Tourists and short-term visitors with valid foreign or out-of-state licenses may drive temporarily, but long-term residents must apply for a state-issued DL.

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Types of Illinois Driver Licenses

• Class D License – Standard license for passenger vehicles
• Instruction Permit – For new drivers learning to drive
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) – For commercial truck or bus drivers
• Motorcycle License (Class M) – Required for two- and three-wheeled motorcycles
• Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) – For non-citizens ineligible for a Social Security Number

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Steps to Get an Illinois Driver License

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years old
• Must reside in Illinois
• Must provide proof of identity, lawful presence, Social Security Number (or proof of ineligibility), and Illinois residency

2. Gather Required Documents

You will need original documents (no copies) that show:

• Written signature (e.g., passport)
• Date of birth
• Social Security Number (if applicable)
• Illinois address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

Use the Illinois Secretary of State’s Document Checklist to verify what’s acceptable.

3. Take the Required Exams

Depending on your situation, you may need to take:

• Vision screening
• Written knowledge test (based on the Illinois Rules of the Road)
• Driving skills (road) test

Note: Out-of-state transfers with a valid license may be exempt from written and road tests.

4. Pay the Fees

Illinois driver license fees as of 2025:

• Ages 21–68: $30
• Instruction Permit: $20
• Road Test Retake (if needed): $10
• Real ID upgrade: no additional fee if not early renewal

5. Receive Your License

After passing the required tests and paying your fees, you’ll receive a temporary paper license. Your official plastic license will be mailed within 15 business days.

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For New Illinois Residents

If you have moved to Illinois from another state, you must obtain an Illinois DL within 90 days of establishing residency. Bring your current license, proof of identity, and residency documents to your local Secretary of State (SOS) facility.

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For Non-Citizens and International Applicants

Illinois offers a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) for immigrants without legal status but with proof of at least 12 months of residence in the state. TVDLs do not serve as valid federal ID and require:

• Proof of residency
• Passport or consular ID
• No Social Security Number (with official denial letter)
• Pass all standard tests

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Why an Illinois DL Is Important

• Required by law to drive in the state
• Serves as primary ID for banking, employment, and travel
• Needed for registering a vehicle and getting insurance
• Real ID-compliant licenses are accepted at airports and federal buildings

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Helpful Tips

• Appointments are required at most Illinois DMV (SOS) facilities
• Prepare by studying the Illinois Rules of the Road handbook
• Arrive early and bring all necessary documents to avoid delays

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