Illinois State ID fees depend on the type and how long you want it to last

An Illinois State ID costs between $5 and $20, depending on whether you want a standard card or a REAL ID-compliant version, and how many years of validity you choose. The standard State ID without REAL ID features runs $5 for a 1-year card or $10 for a 5-year card. If you need a REAL ID-compliant State ID—which works for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings—you'll pay $20 for a 5-year card; there is no 1-year REAL ID option.

You pay the fee when you visit a Secretary of State facility in person. Illinois does not accept payment by mail or online for State ID applications. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card—the facility will tell you which payment methods they accept when you arrive or call ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard 1-year Illinois State ID costs $5; a 5-year standard card costs $10.
  • A REAL ID-compliant State ID costs $20 for 5 years and is required for federal purposes like domestic air travel.
  • You must explore in person at a Secretary of State facility and pay at the time of process.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form when you visit.

Standard State ID versus REAL ID: which costs what

The standard State ID is the basic option. It proves your identity within Illinois and for most everyday purposes. A 1-year card costs $5 and a 5-year card costs $10. You renew it when it expires by returning to a Secretary of State office.

The REAL ID-compliant State ID meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It costs $20 for a 5-year card. You need this version if you plan to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access certain federal buildings. A standard State ID will not work for these purposes. Illinois does not offer a 1-year REAL ID option—the 5-year card is your only choice.

Both cards look similar and fit in your wallet. The main difference is the star symbol in the upper right corner of a REAL ID card, which signals federal compliance. If you are unsure which one you need, ask yourself: will I fly domestically or enter federal buildings in the next few years? If yes, choose REAL ID. If you only need ID for in-state purposes, the standard card is cheaper.

What documents to bring and what to expect at the office

Bring three things to your Secretary of State appointment: proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process. For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, or a valid passport card. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and current address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Fill out the State ID process form before you arrive or ask for one at the office. The form is available on the Illinois Secretary of State website. Bring it completed to speed up your visit. You will also need to provide your Social Security number and answer questions about your driving history and any prior State IDs or driver's licenses you have held.

The office will take your photograph and fingerprints during your visit. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee—ask when you arrive or call ahead to confirm.

Finding a Secretary of State office near you

Illinois has Secretary of State facilities in most counties. The main office is in Springfield, but you can visit any location statewide. Use the office locator on the Illinois Secretary of State website to find the nearest facility, hours of operation, and whether appointments are required or walk-ins are accepted. Some offices require you to book a time slot online; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Call the office before you go to confirm they have the documents you plan to bring and to ask about current wait times. Hours vary by location, and some offices close for lunch or have limited evening hours. Bringing all required documents the first time prevents a second trip.

Renewal fees and what happens when your card expires

When your State ID expires, you renew it at a Secretary of State office using the same fee structure: $5 for a 1-year renewal of a standard card, $10 for a 5-year standard renewal, or $20 for a 5-year REAL ID renewal. You do not pay a separate renewal fee—you pay the same amount as a new card.

You can renew your card up to one year before it expires. If your card has already expired, you can still renew it, but you will need to bring the same documents as a first-time applicant (proof of identity and residency). An expired card is not valid for federal purposes, so if you need REAL ID compliance, renew before the expiration date.

Replacement cards and name changes

If your State ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any Secretary of State office. The replacement fee is the same as a new card: $5 for a 1-year standard card or $10 for a 5-year standard card. Bring proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new card. If your card was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first and bring a copy of the report.

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current State ID and proof of residency. The fee for a name change is the same as a renewal. You do not pay extra for the name update.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my State ID online or by mail?

No. Illinois requires all State ID applications and renewals to be done in person at a Secretary of State office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your card is not yet expired.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

You will need one of these documents to prove your identity. If you don't have either, contact the Illinois Secretary of State office to ask about alternative documents they may accept. Some offices can work with you if you explain your situation, but this varies by location.

Do I need a REAL ID State ID if I only drive in Illinois?

No. A standard State ID is enough for in-state purposes. You only need REAL ID if you plan to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access federal buildings. A standard card is cheaper and works for everyday identification within the state.

How long does it take to get my State ID after I explore?

Your card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you explore. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee if you need it sooner. Ask about expedited options when you visit or call ahead.

What if I move to a different address?

You can update your address at a Secretary of State office without paying a fee, as long as your card is not expired. Bring your current State ID and proof of your new address. If your card is expired, you will pay the renewal fee to update it.