Replacing a Lost License

With increased security concerns and the fear of identity theft, the process for replacing a lost Illinois driver's license has become more demanding.

Illinois now recommends that all lost driver's licenses be reported to the local police department. This is particularly important if the license is believed to have been stolen or misused after being lost.

Once you report the theft or loss, you will be given a police report number and the option of receiving a copy of the report. Some police departments will take a report by phone, while others may require a personal visit.

Although it is suggested, you are not required to report the loss or theft of your license to police in order to replace it.

How to Apply for a Duplicate

Go to any Secretary of State driver services office. You will need to present acceptable identification. This varies, but the best type of identification is a federally issued photo document, such as a United States passport. If you don't have this, a variety of other documents are acceptable, but this is up to the employee handling your request for a replacement license. Documents that are suspicious or altered in any way will not be accepted.

It costs $5 for a duplicate driver's license or learner's permit. If you are older than 60 and your license was stolen, with a police report you can get a replacement free. Should you lose a state-issued ID card, it is $20 to replace it if you're younger than 65. Those with a Senior Card or a disabled person's ID can replace theirs for free.

Lost License While Out of State

If you lost your license while traveling out of state, you need to contact the Special License and Re-Examination Unit at (217) 782-6901. If you will be out of state for less than 90 days, you can ask for a 90-day temporary license to be sent to you.

If you will be gone for more than 90 days, here are the steps for replacing a lost driver's license when you are outside Illinois:

1. Call the Special License and Re-Examination Unit at the number above.
2. Request that the necessary forms be sent to you to apply for a duplicate driver's license.
3. Fill out and return the forms, including the replacement license fee of $5. (If your license has been stolen and you're over 60, and you have a police report, there is no fee for replacement.)

You may also be able to obtain a duplicate driver's license by contacting the Secretary of State's office using the online contact form. Include your name, Illinois address, driver's license number, mailing address outside of Illinois, and the projected date of your return to Illinois.

All of these replacement processes are valid only for current licenses. If your license has expired, you cannot obtain a duplicate license.

When Abroad

If you lose your license while traveling abroad, you should report the lost license to the local embassy or law enforcement. You should also call the Special License and Re-Examination Unit at +1 (217) 782-6901 immediately. When traveling, it's always a good idea to bring photocopies of your license―and keep them in a safe place―along with your passport.