What You Need to Know Before You Start

A state ID in Illinois is a photo identification card issued by the Secretary of State that proves who you are. It is not a driver's license — you do not need to pass a driving test to get one. You can use it at banks, airports, bars, and other places that ask for ID. The process takes about 15 minutes in person at a Secretary of State facility, though you will need to gather documents beforehand.

Illinois offers two types of state ID: a standard ID valid for four years, and a Real ID-compliant ID valid for five years. Real ID is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting May 7, 2025. Most people choose Real ID because the extra year of validity is worth the same cost.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Secretary of State facility in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process — there is no online or mail option.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, or previous Illinois ID; you will need at least one.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days of your visit.
  • Real ID requires one additional document proving your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or Social Security card.
  • The standard ID costs $20 and a Real ID costs $32; you pay in cash, card, or check at the facility.

Documents You Must Bring

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid or expired U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a previous Illinois ID or driver's license, a valid military ID, or a valid passport from another country. If you are under 18, a school ID or report card with your name and date of birth may work, but call your local Secretary of State office first to confirm.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within 90 days of your visit showing your current Illinois address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, or a vehicle registration. The document must show your full name and address.

If you are explore for a Real ID, you also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement from ssa.gov. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a standard state ID.

How to Complete the process

You will fill out form DL 298 at the Secretary of State office. You do not need to print it beforehand — staff will give you a blank form when you arrive. The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, height, eye color, and signature. It takes about five minutes to complete.

You will also have a digital photo taken at the facility. Wear something you would wear in a passport photo — no hats, sunglasses, or heavy makeup. The photo is printed on your ID card.

Where to Go and What to Expect

Find your nearest Secretary of State facility at cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/index/register/home.html. The site lists all locations, hours, and whether you need an appointment. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to book a time slot online or by phone. Call ahead if you are unsure.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive 10 minutes early. The process at the window takes about 15 minutes. You will pay the fee, have your photo taken, and sign the back of your card before you leave. Your ID is ready to use when ready.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices are usually less busy on weekday mornings and more crowded on Saturdays. If your local office has long waits, check whether a nearby facility has shorter lines.

Standard ID vs. Real ID: Which One to Choose

A standard Illinois state ID costs $20 and is valid for four years. You can use it for most everyday purposes: opening a bank account, buying alcohol, proving your age, or entering a state building. It does not work for domestic air travel or federal building entry.

A Real ID costs $32 and is valid for five years. It has a gold star in the upper right corner. You can use it for everything a standard ID does, plus domestic air travel and federal buildings. If you plan to fly or visit a federal courthouse or post office, Real ID is worth the extra $12.

The only reason to choose standard ID is if you do not have a Social Security number or the documents to prove it. Otherwise, Real ID gives you more options for the same visit.

What Happens If You Lose Your ID or It Expires

If your ID is lost or stolen, go to a Secretary of State office with your identity and residency documents. You will fill out form DL 507 (Affidavit of Loss) and pay a $20 replacement fee for a standard ID or $32 for Real ID. The process is the same as getting a new ID.

When your ID expires, you can renew it in person at a Secretary of State office using the same documents and process. You cannot renew by mail or online. Bring your expired ID along with your other documents to speed up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a state ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. A birth certificate is one option, but you can use a valid passport, a previous Illinois ID, a military ID, or a passport from another country instead. You need at least one form of identity — the Secretary of State office can tell you which documents they will accept for your situation.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your location. Some Secretary of State offices take walk-ins during all hours; others require appointments for certain times. Check the office locator at cyberdriveillinois.com to see the policy for your nearest facility, or call ahead to be sure.

How long does a state ID take to arrive if I order it by mail?

You cannot order a state ID by mail in Illinois. You must explore in person at a Secretary of State office. Your ID is ready to use the same day you explore.

What if my address on my residency document does not match my ID exactly?

Minor differences like abbreviations (St. vs. Street) or apartment numbers are usually fine. If the address is significantly different or you have moved recently, bring two residency documents showing your current address, or bring a lease or utility bill along with your previous ID.

Can I get a state ID if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Illinois state ID is available to residents regardless of citizenship status. You will need to bring identity documents from your country and proof of Illinois residency. Call your local Secretary of State office to confirm which documents they accept for non-citizens.