What you need to know before you go

An Illinois State ID card is a photo identification issued by the Secretary of State that proves who you are. Unlike a driver's license, it does not give you permission to drive — it is purely for identification. You can get one at a Secretary of State facility in person, and the process takes about 15 minutes if you have the right documents with you.

You will need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your residency in Illinois, and your Social Security number. The card costs $20 and is valid for five years (or until age 21 if you are under 18). If you are a non-citizen, you can still get a State ID card, but you will need to show immigration documents instead of a birth certificate.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Secretary of State facility in person with original or certified documents — you cannot mail in your process or explore online.
  • Bring one document proving your identity (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), one document proving you live in Illinois (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number.
  • The card costs $20 and takes five years to expire, or until you turn 21 if you are under 18 when you explore.
  • If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, consular report of birth, or certificate of naturalization instead.

Documents you must bring to the Secretary of State office

You need three things: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a consular report of birth, a certificate of naturalization, or a valid foreign passport. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a birth certificate, the passport or naturalization papers work instead.

For proof of residency, bring one document dated within the last 60 days showing your current Illinois address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (like a tax return or court document) all count. The name on the document should match the name on your identity document, but if it does not, bring a second document that shows both names — for example, a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

You also need your Social Security number. You do not have to bring your card, but you must know the number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a State ID card.

Where to go and what to expect

The Secretary of State has driver services facilities in most Illinois counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Secretary of State website under "Driver Services Facilities." Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Some offices are busier on certain days — calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you a trip.

When you arrive, you will fill out an process form (the office provides it). A staff member will check your documents, take your photo, and collect your $20 fee. The card is not printed on the spot — it is mailed to your Illinois address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, but standard service is included in the $20.

Bring a pen to fill out the form, and wear something you would wear in a photo ID — the photo is taken at the office and cannot be changed later. Avoid sunglasses, hats, or anything that obscures your face.

If you are under 18

If you are under 18, you can get a State ID card, but a parent or legal guardian must come with you. They will need to bring their own photo ID to prove they are your parent or guardian. The card will expire on your 21st birthday instead of five years from the date of issue.

If you are between 17 and 18, you have the option to get a card that expires at 21 or one that expires five years from the date of issue. Ask the staff member which option you want when you explore.

If you are a non-citizen

Non-citizens can get a State ID card. Instead of a birth certificate, bring your passport, consular report of birth, or certificate of naturalization as proof of identity. If you have a work permit or other immigration document, bring that too — it helps the office verify your information.

You still need proof of residency and your Social Security number (or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you do not have a Social Security number). The process is the same as for citizens, and the card costs $20.

What to do if your documents are missing or damaged

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the Illinois Department of Public Health or from the state where you were born. This takes time — usually two to four weeks — so plan ahead if you need a State ID card soon.

If your birth certificate is damaged or illegible, you can still use it if the Secretary of State office staff can read the key information (your name, date of birth, and parents' names). If they cannot, you will need to order a replacement.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you do not need to replace it before explore for a State ID — you just need to know your number. If you do not know your number, you can contact the Social Security Administration to look it up, but this takes time. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov.

Renewing or replacing your State ID card

When your card expires, you can renew it by mail or in person. To renew by mail, the Secretary of State will send you a renewal notice before your card expires — follow the instructions on the notice. Renewal by mail costs $20 and takes about two weeks.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must go to a Secretary of State office in person to get a replacement. Bring your proof of residency and Social Security number, but you do not need to bring proof of identity again if you are replacing a card that was already issued. A replacement card costs $20.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a State ID card to fly or cross the border?

A State ID card is not accepted for domestic air travel. You need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or military ID. For crossing the U.S.-Canada or U.S.-Mexico border by land, a State ID card is accepted if it is REAL ID-compliant, but check current border requirements before you travel.

What if my name has changed since my birth certificate was issued?

Bring your birth certificate and a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Secretary of State will use both documents to verify your identity and issue the card in your current name.

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

Standard service takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you explore. The card is mailed to your Illinois address. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee if you need it sooner — ask at the office.

Can I get a State ID card if I do not have a fixed address?

You need to show proof of residency, which usually requires a document with your address on it. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, contact your local Secretary of State office to ask what documents they will accept — some offices have alternative procedures.

What happens if I move after I get my State ID card?

Your card is still valid until it expires, even if you move. You do not have to update your address on the card itself. When you renew, you can provide your new address and the new card will show it.