Big changes are coming to Illinois driver’s licenses in 2025, including new accessibility features and term limits.
New License Term Limits
According to a report from NBC, a bill recently passed by the Illinois General Assembly will allow driver’s to extend the validity of their license for 8 years, double the current four-year-term limit.
The policy aligns with that of other states which currently have 8 year license terms, such as Delaware and Florida.
Its unclear exactly when the license extension will roll out, but the change won’t immediately go into effect come 2025. According to reports, the Secretary of State’s office will offer the extended licenses by summer of 2027 at the very latest.
Mobile Illinois Driver’s Licenses
Beginning in 2025, the Secretary of State’s office will begin a new program allowing Illinois license holders to download a mobile version of their ID card.
Illinois residents will have the option to access the mobile IDs through a secure app. Law enforcement and other officials must accept the mobile IDs as a valid form of identification, according to NBC.
Real ID Deadline
Lastly, a new bill mandates that Illinois licenses be Real-ID compliant by May 7, 2025. The updated IDs will be required for access to federal facilities and commercial flights.
According to NBC, it remains to be seen how strictly TSA will enforce this policy. Illinois residents can learn more here.