Illinois State ID fees depend on your age and how long you want the card to last

An Illinois State ID costs between $5 and $30, depending on whether you are under 21, over 21, and whether you choose a standard card or a Real ID-compliant version. The standard ID for someone 21 or older runs $20. Under 21, it costs $5. If you want a Real ID card — which meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access — add $8 to whichever price applies to you.

You pay the fee when you visit a Secretary of State office in person. There is no online payment option; you must explore face-to-face. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most locations, though calling ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific office is wise.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard Illinois State ID for adults costs $20; under 21 it costs $5.
  • Real ID cards cost $8 more than the standard version and are required for domestic air travel starting in 2025.
  • You must explore in person at a Secretary of State office and pay the fee at that time.
  • The card is valid for four years if you are under 21, or six years if you are 21 or older.

Standard ID versus Real ID: which one you need

A standard Illinois State ID works for everyday identification — showing your age at a store, proving identity to a bank, or using as a general ID card. It costs $20 for adults and $5 for minors. The card is valid for six years if you are 21 or older, and four years if you are under 21.

A Real ID card meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting in 2025, you will need a Real ID card or a passport to board a domestic airplane or enter a federal building. A Real ID card costs $28 for adults ($20 plus $8) and $13 for minors ($5 plus $8). The validity period is the same as a standard card.

If you already have a passport, you do not need a Real ID card for air travel — your passport works. But if you do not have a passport and fly domestically, a Real ID card is the simpler and cheaper route.

What documents you need to bring to avoid extra fees

Bring the right documents the first time, because missing paperwork means a second trip and potentially a second fee. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or valid driver's license), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number.

For a Real ID card, you also need to prove citizenship — a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

The Secretary of State website lists the full document requirements by type. Checking that list before you go saves time and prevents a rejected process.

Where to pay and how long the process takes

You explore and pay at any Secretary of State office. Illinois has offices in most counties; you can find the nearest one on the Secretary of State website by entering your zip code. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary widely — some offices have short lines, others require a two-hour wait. Booking an appointment online through the Secretary of State website reduces wait time significantly.

After you pay and submit your process, the card is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot pick it up in person on the same day. Plan ahead if you need the ID by a specific date.

Renewal and replacement costs

When your card expires, renewing it costs the same as the original: $20 for a standard card or $28 for a Real ID card. You can renew by mail if your address has not changed and you do not need to update your photo. Mail renewal is cheaper — it costs $5 — but takes longer.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $20 for a standard card or $28 for a Real ID card, the same as a new process. You must explore in person and bring a police report if the card was stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Illinois State ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. You can use a passport, naturalization papers, or a valid driver's license as proof of identity instead. The Secretary of State website lists all accepted documents. If you do not have any of these, contact your county vital records office about obtaining a birth certificate copy before you visit the Secretary of State.

Is there a fee if I change my address on my ID?

No. Address changes are free. You can update your address by mail or in person at a Secretary of State office. By mail, send a completed process form and proof of your new address. In person, bring the same documents you would for a new ID.

What if I cannot afford the $20 fee right now?

The Secretary of State does not offer fee waivers or payment plans for State IDs. The fee is set by state law. If cost is a barrier, contact your local community action agency or social services office — some offer emergency ID information programs, though availability varies by county.

Do I need a Real ID card if I only drive in Illinois?

No. Real ID is only required for domestic air travel and federal building access. A standard State ID is sufficient for driving and everyday use. You only need Real ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal courthouse, military base, or similar facility.