Top1) Determine the Status of Your Registration

You must renew your registration every 12 months.

Renew IL Registration

It's illegal to drive in the state for any length of time with an expired registration. It's also against the law to drive without having the proper insurance. Visit our Insurance Center if you need to attain coverage, or are simply looking for a new provider.

Scroll down to the "Check Your Renewal Notice" section to learn about your renewal options.

Register a Vehicle in IL for the First Time

Did you recently move to the state or buy a new car? If so, you'll need to complete an initial vehicle registration with the Secretary of State (SOS) office. Please see our main registration page to learn how to do so.

Register a Non-Operational Vehicle

Because the state doesn't provide a special process for registering these types of vehicles, you must register―and renew―your non-operational vehicle in the same manner as functioning vehicles.

Top2) Check Your Renewal Notice

A couple of months before your registration expires, you should receive your renewal notice in the mail. You're not required to have this form to renew, but it does contain useful information such as the fee that you owe, along with your personal identification number (PIN) and renewal code (if you're eligible to renew by phone or online).

Those who didn't receive their notice must still renew on time. If you're missing your notice and want to get one, call the SOS at (800) 252-8980. If you're eligible to renew online or by phone and simply need a PIN and renewal code, send an e-mail to the SOS.

Keep in mind your vehicle may need a smog test before you can renew its registration. It depends on when the SOS sends your smog notice.

Top3) Calculate Your Fees

Renewal fees vary depending on what type of plates you have, and the method you choose to renew. The standard plate fee is $78, but may carry an additional minor charge depending on the renewal method.

Other vehicle-related fees you may find yourself looking at are your monthly or annual car insurance payments. Now's the time to browse lower rates to make sure you get the best deal.

Avoid Late Fees and Penalties

Although the state doesn't punish those who are tardy in renewing their registrations with the $20 late fee if the registration gets renewed within 30 days after the expiration date, it is illegal to drive in the state with expired plates for any period of time.

Top4) Renew Online, In Person, By Mail, or By Phone

If you've changed your name, address, or vehicle information since your last renewal, or if you didn't receive your renewal card, it can affect how you renew.

Renew Online

1. Check to see if you're eligible to renew using this method.
2. If you're eligible, have your PIN, renewal code, and insurance information handy.
3. Be ready to pay your renewal fee with your Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express credit card (a $1.75 surcharge applies to credit card transactions), or through your checking account.
4. Go to the renewal site and follow the instructions provided.

Allow at least one month to process your request.

In Person

1. Gather your renewal notice or current registration (some currency exchanges and banks may only accept your renewal notice).
2. Be prepared to pay your fee with cash, a check, a traveler's check, or a Discover Card credit card. (A $2 surcharge applies to credit card payments at SOS locations; currency exchanges and banks charge a minimum surcharge of $3 no matter the payment method.)
3. Go to a SOS location, currency exchange, or participating bank branch to complete the renewal.

By Mail

1. Sign your name on the bottom of the renewal card; if you can't find the card, write a letter with your name, address, license plate number, vehicle make, vehicle model year, and vehicle identification number (it also helps to include a copy of your current registration card).
2. Pay your fee with a check made payable to the Illinois Secretary of State.
3. Send everything to:
   • Secretary of State
   • Vehicle Services Department
   • 501 S. 2nd St., Room 011
   • Springfield, IL 62756-6666

Allow at least one month to process your request.

By Phone

1. Have your PIN, renewal code, and insurance information ready.
2. Be able to pay your renewal fee and the $1.75 processing fee with your Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express credit card, or through your checking account.
3. Call (866) 545-9609 to use the automated, touch-tone system.

Allow at least one month to process your request.

Top5) Affix Your Stickers

Make sure you follow the instructions provided to properly place your stickers on your plate.

Top6) Get a Tax Deduction

Some states base their car renewal fees at least partially on a vehicle's estimated worth. This acts as a personal property tax, meaning that residents in these states can use the renewal fee as a tax deduction.

However, because Illinois doesn't calculate its renewal fees in this method, you can't take the deduction. Consult a tax attorney to learn more.

Top7) Do Your Part to Keep Our Roadways Safe

You've fulfilled your renewal responsibilities, but there are other measures you can take to help keep you―and other motorists― safe. One way to do this is to maintain your car and keep it in the best possible shape.

Start with having regular oil changes and tune-ups performed. Also, rotate your tires a couple of times per year, and promptly replace worn tires. A qualified, reliable mechanic will be able to handle these matters with ease, and alert you to potential problems before they become dangerous.

Purchasing an after-market warranty gives you the ability to take care of major repairs that you may not have otherwise been able to afford. And, joining a roadside assistance program allows to safely deal with those sometimes unavoidable emergencies.

Our content is updated based on input from users like you. Help make it better!