Illinois residents who are wondering whether they can renew their driver’s licenses early have been eagerly awaiting clarification on this matter. Traditionally, driver’s licenses in Illinois expire on the driver’s birthday every four years. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting backlog of renewals, many are questioning if they can renew their licenses ahead of time.
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office recently announced that they are now allowing drivers to renew their licenses up to one year before the expiration date without penalty. This new policy is aimed at reducing the long lines at DMV offices and providing more flexibility to drivers who may be planning to travel or face other circumstances that require an updated license.
According to Secretary of State Jesse White, “We understand that many drivers are eager to renew their licenses early due to various reasons, such as upcoming travel plans or the need for a Real ID-compliant license. By allowing early renewals, we hope to alleviate some of the backlog and make the process smoother for everyone involved.”
Drivers who are considering renewing their licenses early should be aware of the requirements and steps involved in the process. To renew a driver’s license early in Illinois, individuals must visit a Secretary of State facility in person and provide proof of identification, residency, and signature. They will also need to pass a vision test and have their current photo taken. The renewal fee varies depending on the driver’s age and the length of the renewed license.
One important factor to consider when renewing a driver’s license early is the expiration date of the new license. The Secretary of State’s office has clarified that the new expiration date will be based on the driver’s birthday, not the date of the early renewal. For example, if a driver renews their license six months before the expiration date, the new license will still expire on their birthday four years from the original expiration date.
It is important for drivers to plan ahead and consider their individual circumstances before deciding to renew their license early. Taking advantage of this new policy can be beneficial for those who have upcoming travel plans or other reasons that require a current, valid driver’s license.
In addition to allowing early renewals, the Secretary of State’s office has also implemented other measures to streamline the renewal process and reduce wait times at DMV offices. Online services are available for certain transactions, such as license plate renewals and address changes. The office has also expanded its appointment system to allow for more efficient scheduling and reduced overcrowding.
For those who prefer to renew their driver’s license in person, it is recommended to schedule an appointment in advance to ensure a quick and smooth process. The Secretary of State’s office has extended hours at certain facilities and is working to increase staffing to accommodate the high demand for renewals.
Overall, the new policy allowing early renewals of driver’s licenses in Illinois is a welcome change for many drivers who are eager to update their licenses for various reasons. By providing more flexibility and options for renewal, the Secretary of State’s office is working to improve the overall experience for drivers and reduce the backlog of renewals. Drivers are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and plan ahead to ensure a hassle-free renewal process.
