Last verified: 23/09/2026
Illinois at a glance
This guide explains Driver's License requirements in Illinois, including eligibility, documents, application steps, testing, fees and renewal.
Eligibility & Age Rules
<p>Illinois uses a graduated licensing program for teen drivers. At age 15, applicants need parent or guardian consent, an approved driver-education course, and the required vision and written testing. The permit must generally be held for at least 9 months with 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.</p>
Costs, timing and validity
Instruction permit: 15. A full driver's license can generally be issued beginning at 16 after the graduated licensing requirements are met.
$30 for ages 21β68; $5 for ages 18β20 and 69β80; $2 for ages 81β86; free at age 87 and older. An instruction permit is $20.
The same age-based driver's license fees apply to renewal: $30 for ages 21β68, $5 for ages 18β20 and 69β80, $2 for ages 81β86, and free at 87+.
Drivers ages 21β86 generally receive a 4-year license. A license held by someone under 21 expires three months after the 21st birthday. Drivers age 87 and older renew annually.
Documents and information to prepare
Use the official checklist linked on this page as the final authority. The items below describe the information this state commonly expects for this credential.
Applicants must provide acceptable identification and the documents required for the credential being requested. REAL ID applicants have additional document requirements. Name changes require documents linking the former and current names.
How to apply
Complete the Illinois Secretary of State application, provide acceptable identification and required documents, pay the applicable fee, and pass the required vision, written, and driving exams.
Teen applicants must complete the applicable graduated licensing and driver-education requirements.
Testing, Training & Restrictions
<p>Vision screening is required for renewals completed at a facility. Depending on the applicant and transaction, written and road exams may also be required. Drivers age 87 and older must renew annually and complete both vision and driving testing under current Illinois rules.</p>
Renewal and ongoing requirements
<p>Illinois licenses can generally be renewed up to one year before expiration for 4-year or 2-year licenses. Some drivers can renew online when they receive a renewal PIN or authorization number; applicants needing exams or a REAL ID transaction must visit a facility.</p>
Processing time
Applicants receive a temporary secure paper credential after completing the transaction. The permanent driver's license is mailed and should generally arrive within 15 business days.