Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in Illinois

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Illinois?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Illinois, applicants must be between 15-17 years of age, have completed an approved Driver’s Education course, provide two forms of identification, and pass a written knowledge test and vision exam. They must also have a parent or guardian present with a valid Illinois driver’s license, or provide a signed Parent and Guardian Consent Form (Form DSD X-7).

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in Illinois. A person must present valid documentation from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) proving their legal presence in the U.S., such as a valid permanent resident card or an employment authorization document (EAD). They must also pass the written and driving tests, submit proof of residency, and pay the necessary fees to obtain a license.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Illinois?


To apply for a provisional driver’s license in Illinois, you will need a birth certificate, proof of legal presence in the United States, a social security card, two proofs of residency, and an IDOT Medical Report. You also must provide two documents that prove your name change (if applicable). Additionally, you must pass a vision test, written exam, and a road test, and pay the appropriate fee.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office allows individuals to obtain a driver’s license with an alternate form of identification, such as a foreign passport or a state-issued ID card.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Illinois?


The minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Illinois is 16 years of age.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in Illinois?


Non-citizens are eligible to obtain a commercial driver’s license in Illinois if they meet all of the requirements. To obtain a CDL, non-citizens must provide valid proof of identity and proof of legal presence in the United States. Examples of acceptable documents for proof of identity are a valid permanent resident card (Green Card) or foreign passport with an I-94 arrival/departure record.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in Illinois?


Non-U.S. citizens with a valid foreign-issued driver’s license may legally drive in Illinois for 90 days from the date of entry into the country, as long as the license is valid. Non-U.S. citizens must also carry their passport, visa, and I-94 with them when they are driving. After the expiration of the 90 day period, non-U.S. citizens must obtain an Illinois driver’s license if they intend to continue driving in the state.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in Illinois?


To obtain a driver’s license in Illinois, applicants must present proof of identity, such as a valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, Permanent Resident Card/Alien Registration Receipt Card (Form I-551), or an original foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 form.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of Illinois before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must be residents of Illinois for at least one year before being able to apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Illinois must provide proof of lawful presence in the United States. This proof could include a valid foreign passport, foreign passport with a valid visa, or an I-94. In some cases, additional documentation may be required.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


In order to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois, non-citizens must take a written knowledge test and a road skills test. Both tests must be passed in order to obtain a driver’s license.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of residency in order to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois. This proof of residency can include a valid passport, visa, or other documents issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Illinois?


No, there is not an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Illinois.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Illinois?


No, it is not possible to convert a foreign driver’s license to an American one in Illinois. In order to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois, applicants must provide proof of legal presence in the United States and proof of Illinois residency. Non-U.S. citizens are not eligible to obtain an Illinois driver’s license.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in Illinois?


When applying for a driver’s license in Illinois, non-citizens must provide valid proof of identity, such as a valid passport or certificate of naturalization, and proof of residency, such as a utility bill or school enrollment document. Non-citizens must also submit a social security number (if available) and proof of legal presence in the U.S., such as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois?


The cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in Illinois varies depending on the type of license you are applying for. The fees range from $30 to $60, plus an additional $5 fee for a road test.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in Illinois?


Yes, if you are visiting Illinois and have a valid foreign driver’s license, you may legally drive in the state for up to 90 days. After that, you are required to apply for an Illinois driver’s license. If you hold a valid foreign driver’s license, you are also subject to the same traffic laws and regulations as those with an Illinois driver’s license.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in Illinois?


Yes. Non-citizens can obtain an international driving permit in Illinois while residing in the state. To get an international driver’s permit, you will need to provide your passport, driver’s license, passport-sized photos, and a fee. The international driving permit may be obtained at certain AAA offices in the state.

19. Does Illinois recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


Yes. Non-US citizens who possess a valid foreign driver’s license may use it as identification to apply for an Illinois driver’s license.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in Illinois?


Yes, some special requirements apply to individuals who are not citizens of the United States when renewing a driver’s license in Illinois. Non-citizens must provide proof of their legal presence and identity in the United States, such as a valid foreign passport, an unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or any other documents that are acceptable forms of identification. Additionally, non-citizens must present proof of their current Illinois address.