Driving in Illinois with a Foreign Driver's License

Illinois allows foreign visitors to drive using a valid foreign driver's license for up to 90 days. After this period, or if your foreign license expires before the 90-day period is over, you must obtain an Illinois driver's license if you plan to stay as a resident.

To drive in Illinois with a foreign license, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Validity of License: The foreign driver's license must be valid and not expired. You must carry the license at all times while driving.
  • Duration: You may drive with your foreign license for up to 90 days. After 90 days, or if your license expires earlier, you will need to obtain an Illinois driver's license.
  • International Driver's License: Illinois does not recognize the International Driver’s License as a valid driving permit.

Limitations and Considerations

  • Appointments: Starting from September 1, 2023, appointments are required for REAL ID, driver's license, ID card services, and in-car driving tests at 44 of the busiest DMVs in Illinois. Visit ilsos.gov or call (844) 817-4649 to schedule an appointment.
  • Students: College students residing in Illinois temporarily for education do not need to obtain an Illinois license unless they plan to stay permanently.

Swapping Your Foreign Driver's License in Illinois

If you plan to move to Illinois and become a resident, you must obtain an Illinois driver's license within 90 days of your arrival. To convert your foreign driver's license to an Illinois license, you will need to prove your identity and provide documentation, including:

  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Social security number (if applicable)
  • Illinois residency

If you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), you may apply for a Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL), which is available for both documented and undocumented individuals who meet certain criteria.

Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL)

There are two types of TVDLs:

  1. For individuals authorized to reside in the U.S. for one or more years, with at least six months of authorized presence remaining.
  2. For individuals without lawful status, who have lived in the U.S. for at least one year.

To apply for a TVDL, you must pass the following:

  • Road test
  • Vision test
  • Written test

You must also provide proof of Illinois residency for the past 12 months and possess a valid visa.

A TVDL is not a general identification card and can only be used for driving.

How to Obtain a Standard Driver's License in Illinois (Starting July 1, 2024)

Beginning July 1, 2024, non-U.S. citizens in Illinois can apply for a Standard Driver's License without needing a Social Security Number (SSN). This license will carry the label "Federal Limits Apply" instead of "Not for Federal Identification." It cannot be used for federal purposes, such as boarding flights or entering federal buildings, but allows for lawful driving.

Requirements for the Standard Driver's License

To apply, you must:

  • Pass a driving test
  • Have valid insurance
  • Provide identification documents
  • Prove Illinois residency for at least one year

Documentation

  • For documented immigrants: Provide U.S. immigration documents issued by Homeland Security (e.g., I-20, I-94) or your Social Security card.
  • For undocumented immigrants: Provide a valid foreign passport or consulate-issued ID.

Note: All documents must be valid and not expiring within the next two years.

For more details on Illinois driver's licenses, visit the Illinois Secretary of State's Office website.

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