How do I Get Licensed in Illinois?
When you purchase a vehicle you need to secure an Illinois auto loan, shop for a purchase the vehicle and you must also register it with the state of Illinois. Illinois, like all other states requires that you have a motor vehicle operator's license issued by the state in order to register a vehicle in the state of Illinois. If you do not already have a license, or have one issued by another state, you will need to obtain one from the state of Illinois. The department responsible for issuing licenses, titles and registration in the state of Illinois is the Secretary of State.
The state of Illinois issues drivers licenses to legal residents over 18 years of age. This, of course means that you will have present valid documentation as proof of your identity and eligibility. If you have not had a valid driver's license issued to you recently by Illinois or another state you may be asked to take a short driver's safety exam. Otherwise, obtaining your license is a simple as a trip to the nearest Illinois Secretary of State office, filling out the proper forms and presenting the required documentation.
Documentation Required for Obtaining a License in Illinois
Before you head to the Secretary of State office make sure you have the following documentation:
- Proof of residency. This can be any of the following: a lease agreement, utility bill or voter registration card. The state only requires one of these items, but bring more than one just in case they question or reject your chosen document.
- Proof of date of birth. This can be any of the following: a military identification card, a birth certificate, or immigration or naturalization certificate.
- Proof of your written signature. This can be any of the following: a cancelled check, major credit card, current out-of-state driver's license or mortgage or lease documents.
- Proof of your social security number. This must be one of the following: a military identification card, a social security card, or military service record.
