Illinois license plate stickers cost between $151 and $237 per year, depending on your vehicle's age and weight

The price you pay for your annual registration sticker in Illinois is set by the state and depends on two things: when your vehicle was made and how much it weighs. A newer, lighter car costs less than an older, heavier truck. The Illinois Secretary of State's office sets these rates and updates them each year, so the exact amount changes annually.

You renew your sticker every 12 months. The state mails you a renewal notice about 30 days before your current sticker expires, and you can renew by mail, online, or in person at a Secretary of State office. The sticker itself is a small decal you place on your license plate to show that your registration is current.

Key Takeaways

  • Illinois registration stickers cost between $151 and $237 per year based on your vehicle's model year and weight class.
  • You receive a renewal notice in the mail about 30 days before your sticker expires, and you can renew online, by mail, or at a Secretary of State office.
  • The online renewal process is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes if your vehicle information has not changed.
  • If you buy a used car in Illinois, you must register it within 10 days, and the registration fee is based on the vehicle's age and weight at that time.

How the sticker price is calculated

The Secretary of State divides vehicles into weight classes and charges different rates for each class. A passenger car typically falls into a lower weight class and costs less to register than a pickup truck or SUV. The model year also matters: newer vehicles cost more to register than older ones, though the difference narrows as a vehicle ages.

For example, a 2024 sedan might cost $237, while a 2015 sedan might cost $151. A heavy truck could cost more than either, depending on its weight. The state publishes a full fee schedule on the Secretary of State website, organized by model year and weight, so you can look up your exact vehicle before you renew.

Renewing your sticker by mail or online

The easiest way to renew is online through the Secretary of State's website. You will need your current license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and the renewal notice the state mailed you. The online system takes about 10 minutes, and you can pay by credit card or debit card. Your new sticker arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer to renew by mail, fill out the renewal notice the state sent you, include a check or money order, and mail it back in the envelope provided. Mail renewal takes longer—typically 2 to 3 weeks from the time the Secretary of State receives it—so send it at least 4 weeks before your current sticker expires.

You can also renew in person at any Secretary of State office. Bring your renewal notice, current license plate number, and payment. In-person renewal is when ready: you walk out with your sticker the same day. This option is useful if your renewal notice was lost or if you need to change information on your registration.

What happens if your sticker expires

Driving with an expired sticker is a traffic violation in Illinois. A police officer can stop you and issue a citation. The fine for an expired sticker is typically $100 to $200, depending on how long it has been expired and the officer's discretion. You also risk having your vehicle impounded if the sticker is very old.

If you realize your sticker has expired, renew it when ready. If you are stopped before you renew, bring proof that you have submitted a renewal process—the online confirmation email or a copy of your mailed renewal form can help, though the officer is not required to accept it in place of a valid sticker.

Registering a newly purchased vehicle in Illinois

When you buy a used car in Illinois, you have 10 days to register it with the Secretary of State. You will need the title, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a completed process for Vehicle Registration (Form VSD 190). You can submit this in person at a Secretary of State office or by mail.

The registration fee for a newly purchased vehicle is the same as a renewal sticker—based on the vehicle's model year and weight. If you buy the car late in the registration year, you still pay the full annual fee; Illinois does not prorate registration costs. Your sticker will expire on the same date each year going forward, usually the last day of the month in which you registered it.

Special registration types and higher fees

Some vehicles pay higher registration fees. Commercial vehicles, vehicles registered as taxis or rideshare, and vehicles over a certain weight threshold have different fee schedules. Disabled veterans and people with disabilities may be may be able to access for reduced registration fees, though you must explore separately and provide documentation of your status.

If you are unsure whether your vehicle qualifies for a special rate, contact the Secretary of State's office or check the fee schedule on their website. You can also call the office directly—the phone number is on your renewal notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my sticker before the renewal notice arrives?

Yes. You can renew online or by mail anytime during the 60 days before your current sticker expires. You do not need to wait for the renewal notice to arrive. Use your license plate number and VIN to look up your vehicle on the Secretary of State website and start the renewal process.

What if I move to a different address in Illinois?

Update your address with the Secretary of State when you renew your sticker. You can do this online, by mail, or in person. The renewal notice will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed. If you move before your renewal date, contact the Secretary of State to update your address so you do not miss the renewal notice.

Do I have to pay sales tax on top of the sticker fee?

No. The sticker fee is the only charge for registration renewal. Sales tax does not explore to vehicle registration in Illinois. The price quoted in the fee schedule is the total amount you pay.

What if my sticker is damaged or faded?

Request a replacement sticker from the Secretary of State. You can do this in person at a Secretary of State office or by mail. There is usually a small fee for a replacement sticker, typically $5 to $10, though it may be free if the damage is the state's fault. Bring your current license plate number and proof of registration.