Illinois Fake ID

• Standard driver’s license: To legally drive in Illinois.
• State ID card: For people who do not drive but need an official ID.
• Illinois person with a disability ID card: A no-fee ID available to qualifying individuals with permanent disabilities. The card can serve as proof of disability.
• Commercial driver’s license (CDL): Required for operating large or specialized commercial vehicles.
• Instruction permit: For new or younger drivers learning to drive.
• REAL ID: A type of driver’s license or state ID that meets federal rules. As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID (or a passport) to board a flight within the U.S. or enter federal buildings.
  • Note: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a REAL ID or U.S. passport can pay a $45 fee to use TSA’s new identity-verification option instead of being turned away. Learn more about this option.

The steps below focus on applying for a basic state ID or standard driver’s license. Additional or different steps may apply if you need another type of ID, such as a CDL, motorcycle license, or REAL ID.

Visit the Office of the Illinois Secretary of State to learn more about the different types of IDs available in Illinois.

To apply for a driver’s license or state ID for the first time, you must show documents that prove your:

• Name and written signature: for example, a current driver’s license or state ID, US passport, Social Security card, Medicare card, or a certified court order
• Date of birth: such as a birth certificate, adoption records, US passport, or a Social Security award letter
• Social Security number (or acceptable proof that you are not eligible for one): for example, your Social Security card, W-2 form, pay stub showing your full name and full Social Security number, or a Social Security award letter
  • Note: If you are not eligible for a Social Security number (for example, certain visa holders), you must sign a declaration stating this.
• Illinois residency (you must show two documents): including a bank statement, mortgage or lease agreement, pay stub showing name and address, or a utility bill dated within the last 90 days

There are many other types of documents you can use. See a list of acceptable documents, or review the Secretary of State’s Acceptable Identification Documents chart.

You may use one document to meet more than one requirement. All documents must be current and unexpired unless otherwise noted.

If your name has changed, for example, due to marriage, you must bring legal proof of the name change, like a marriage certificate or court order.

If you are renewing your Illinois driver’s license or state ID, you may only need to show proof of your name and written signature. If your current license or ID expired less than one year ago, it can usually be used for this purpose.

If you are a new resident of Illinois, you must give up all out-of-state driver’s licenses or ID cards before getting an Illinois license or ID.

Additional documentation rules apply if you are applying for a REAL ID. Use the REAL ID interactive checklist to confirm that you have the necessary documents.