What You Need to Know Before You Go
An Illinois ID card is a state-issued photo identification 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 use it at banks, airports, government offices, and anywhere else that asks for a photo ID. The Illinois Secretary of State's office issues these cards, and you will explore in person at a Driver Services facility.
The process takes about 15 minutes at the facility itself, but you need to bring the right documents and pay a fee. The card is valid for five years if you are under 65, or ten years if you are 65 or older. Once you have it, you can renew by mail or online before it expires, so you will not have to return to a facility every time.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver Services facility in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get an Illinois ID card.
- The fee is $20 for a five-year card (under 65) or $30 for a ten-year card (65 and older), and you can pay by cash, check, or card.
- Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or an out-of-state driver's license — you need one primary document plus one secondary document.
- You can find your nearest Driver Services facility and check its hours on the Illinois Secretary of State website before you go.
- Bring your original documents, not copies — the staff will verify them but you take them home with you.
Documents You Must Bring
The Illinois Secretary of State requires two types of documents: one primary identity document and one secondary identity document. A primary document proves your legal name and date of birth. A secondary document adds a second layer of verification.
Primary documents include a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate (with the raised seal), a passport card, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or an out-of-state driver's license or ID card. If you are using a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born — a photocopy or hospital copy will not work.
Secondary documents include a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a bank statement, a utility bill, a lease or mortgage document, a property tax bill, or a vehicle registration. The secondary document does not have to match your current name exactly, but it should show your connection to your current address or your legal name change if you have had one.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number from memory. If you do not know your number, you can contact the Social Security Administration before your appointment.
Proof of Residency Requirements
Illinois requires proof that you live in the state. This document must show your current address and your name. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or vehicle registration all work. The document should be dated within the last 60 days, though some older documents may be accepted — ask your local facility if you are unsure.
If you have recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new address, bring a lease or purchase agreement that shows you are moving there, plus a document from your old address. If you are homeless or living with someone else, contact your local Driver Services facility to ask what documents they will accept — they have options for people in these situations.
Finding a Facility and Making an Appointment
The Illinois Secretary of State operates Driver Services facilities across the state. You can find the one nearest you by visiting the Secretary of State website and using their facility locator tool. Enter your city or ZIP code, and the tool will show you addresses, hours, and phone numbers.
Some facilities allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead or check the website for your specific location — hours vary by facility, and some close for lunch or have limited evening hours. Many facilities are busier on Saturdays and the first week of the month, so going on a weekday afternoon may mean a shorter wait.
You do not need an appointment to explore, but having one can save you an hour or more. If your facility offers online scheduling, book your slot at least a few days in advance.
What Happens During Your Visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell staff you are explore for an ID card. A staff member will call you to a window, verify your documents, and ask you to confirm your information. They will check your primary and secondary documents against their system to make sure there are no issues with your identity or address.
Next, you will have your photo taken. Wear something you feel comfortable in — the photo will be on your card for five or ten years. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or heavy makeup that obscures your face. If you wear glasses, you can keep them on as long as the lenses are not tinted and your eyes are clearly visible.
After your photo, you will pay the fee. Illinois charges $20 for a five-year card if you are under 65, or $30 for a ten-year card if you are 65 or older. You can pay by cash, check, or debit or credit card. The staff will give you a receipt with a temporary ID number. Your permanent card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
What to Do If You Cannot Find Your Birth Certificate
If you do not have a certified birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $15 to $30. You can order online, by mail, or in person at the vital records office. Search "[your state] vital records" to find the office's website.
While you are waiting for your birth certificate, you can use a U.S. passport or passport card as your primary document instead. If you have an out-of-state driver's license or ID card that is still valid, that also works as a primary document. You do not have to wait for a birth certificate if you have one of these alternatives.
After You Receive Your Card
Your Illinois ID card will arrive by mail at the address you provided. Open the envelope carefully and check that your name, date of birth, and address are correct. If anything is wrong, contact your local Driver Services facility right away — they can issue a corrected card, though you may have to pay another fee.
Your card is valid for five or ten years depending on your age. Before it expires, you can renew it by mail or online without visiting a facility. The Secretary of State will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your card expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew quickly and avoid having to explore in person again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my passport instead of getting an ID card?
Yes, a U.S. passport is a valid photo ID for most purposes. However, an Illinois ID card is smaller, easier to carry, and does not expire as quickly if you are under 65. If you already have a passport and do not need an ID card for a specific reason, you do not have to get one.
What if I have changed my name since my birth certificate was issued?
Bring your birth certificate plus a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff will verify both documents and issue your card in your current legal name.
How long does it take to get my card after I explore?
The card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need an ID before then, ask the staff for a temporary ID receipt — you can use this as proof of identity while you wait for your permanent card.
Can I renew my ID card by mail?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online if your card is still valid and your information has not changed. The Secretary of State will send you a renewal notice before your card expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew without visiting a facility.
What if I lost my ID card?
You will need to explore for a replacement in person at a Driver Services facility, just like explore for a new card. Bring the same documents and pay the same fee. Tell the staff that you are replacing a lost card so they can note it in the system.