What you need to renew your Illinois ID in person or by mail

Illinois ID renewal works differently depending on whether your card is still valid, expired less than five years ago, or expired more than five years ago. If your ID is current or expired within the last five years, you can renew by mail or in person at a Secretary of State facility. If it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person.

The Secretary of State handles all ID renewals in Illinois. You'll need your current or expired ID card, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and a completed process form. If you're renewing in person, bring these documents to any Driver Services facility. If you're renewing by mail, send them to the address listed on the renewal notice you receive.

The renewal fee is $20 for a standard ID card valid for five years. Payment methods vary by location — in-person renewals accept cash, check, or card, while mail renewals typically require a check or money order.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew by mail only if your ID expired within the last five years; older expirations require an in-person visit.
  • Bring your current or expired ID, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and a completed process to any Driver Services facility.
  • The renewal fee is $20 and the new card is valid for five years from the date of renewal.
  • Mail renewals take about two to three weeks; in-person renewals are usually completed the same day.

Renewing by mail through the Secretary of State

Mail renewal is the fastest option if your ID expired within the last five years. The Secretary of State will send you a renewal notice in the mail before your card expires. This notice includes a prepaid envelope and instructions. You complete the process on the back of the notice, include your current ID and proof of residency, and mail everything back.

Processing takes about two to three weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your envelope. Your new ID card will arrive by mail at the address on file. You do not need to visit a facility or take a new photo — the Secretary of State uses your existing photo from your current ID.

If you did not receive a renewal notice or lost it, you can request one by calling the Secretary of State's Customer Service line at 217-782-6900 or visiting cyberdriveillinois.com. Have your ID number ready when you call.

Renewing in person at a Driver Services facility

In-person renewal is required if your ID expired more than five years ago, and it's also an option if you prefer not to mail your documents. Visit any Secretary of State Driver Services facility with your expired or current ID, proof of residency, and a completed process (Form DL 44). You can read the form from cyberdriveillinois.com or pick one up at the facility.

Bring a recent photo ID if you're renewing an ID card that expired more than five years ago — the facility will take a new photo as part of the renewal process. If your ID expired within the last five years, they may use your existing photo. Processing is usually completed the same day, and you'll receive your new card before you leave.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Facilities are typically less busy on weekday mornings and during off-peak hours. You can find your nearest facility and current wait times on cyberdriveillinois.com.

What happens if your ID is expired more than five years

An ID expired more than five years ago is treated as a new process rather than a renewal. You must visit a Driver Services facility in person, bring proof of residency, and have a new photo taken. The process is the same as renewing in person, but you cannot use the mail option.

Bring your expired ID if you still have it — it helps the facility verify your information. If you've lost it, bring two forms of identification instead. The renewal fee remains $20, and your new card will be valid for five years.

Proof of residency requirements

Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current Illinois address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. The document must have your name and address printed on it.

If you've recently moved and don't have a document dated within 60 days, you can use a combination of documents — for example, an older utility bill plus a recent lease. The facility or mail processing center will tell you if your documents are acceptable. If you're unsure, call the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 before you visit or mail your renewal.

Fees and payment methods

The standard renewal fee is $20 for an ID card valid for five years. In-person renewals accept cash, check, or debit and credit cards. Mail renewals require a check or money order — do not send cash through the mail.

Make checks or money orders payable to the Secretary of State. Include the payment with your process and other documents when you mail your renewal. If you're paying in person, you can pay at the counter when you submit your process.

Timeline for receiving your renewed ID

In-person renewals are usually completed the same day. You'll receive your new card before you leave the facility, though some locations may mail it to you if they're processing a high volume of applications. Ask the staff when you submit your process.

Mail renewals take about two to three weeks from the date the Secretary of State receives your envelope. Your new card will arrive by mail at the address on file. If you don't receive it within four weeks, call 217-782-6900 to check the status of your renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Illinois ID if I've moved out of state?

No. You must be an Illinois resident to hold an Illinois ID. If you've moved out of state, you should explore for an ID in your new state. If you're temporarily out of state but still an Illinois resident, you can renew by mail if your ID expired within the last five years.

What if my name has changed since my last ID?

Bring documentation of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your other renewal documents. If you're renewing in person, the facility will update your name on your new card. If you're renewing by mail, include a copy of the name change document with your process.

Do I need a new photo for my ID renewal?

Only if your ID expired more than five years ago. For renewals within five years, the Secretary of State uses your existing photo. If you're renewing in person and your ID is current or recently expired, ask the staff whether they'll take a new photo — some facilities offer this as an option even when it's not required.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

You can still renew by mail. Call the Secretary of State at 217-782-6900 and request a new renewal notice, or visit cyberdriveillinois.com to read the process form. Mail your completed process, current ID, and proof of residency to the address provided by the Secretary of State.

Can someone else pick up my renewed ID for me?

For in-person renewals, you must be present to have your photo taken or to verify your information. For mail renewals, your new card will be mailed to the address on file — you don't need to pick it up in person. If someone else needs to collect an in-person renewal on your behalf, contact your local Driver Services facility to ask about their authorization procedures.