In 2013, a new bill created the new temporary visitor driver’s license program in Illinois. It allows undocumented (non-visa status) individuals to apply for a temporary visitor driver’s license, also known as a TVDL. Anyone who wishes to apply must have resided in the State of Illinois for more than 12 months.
To be eligible, you must prove your name and date of birth with one of these two documents:
You must also prove a written signature with an ID card or similar and your current address, including a 12-month residency, with a utility bill, bank statement, or similar. See www.ilsos.gov for a complete list of accepted documents.
The temporary visitor driver’s license gives the holder the privilege to drive; it is not valid for identification purposes. The license comes with the text “Not valid for identification.” You cannot use the license to board an airplane, enter a federal building, register to vote, or apply for a Firearm Owner Identification.
The license is valid for three years and has no renewal options. The holder must reapply as a new applicant, presenting all required documents again.
To apply for an Illinois temporary visitor driver’s license, you must make an advance appointment at one of the 36 designated Driver Services facilities. Like any other driver’s license, you must pass a vision test, the driver knowledge test, and a behind-the-wheel road test.
Applicants older than 18 and younger than 21 who have never had a license or completed an approved driver education course must complete a six-hour Adult Driver Education Course before they can be issued a temporary visitor driver’s license. When you have completed this course, you will get a certificate of completion, which you must show when you apply for your license.
Remember, you must still pass your vision, driver knowledge, and road tests. Before you visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility to complete your tests, we recommend using our permit practice tests to ensure you pass the written knowledge exam.
You must have liability insurance before a temporary visitor driver’s license becomes valid. If you drive without auto insurance, your temporary visitor driver’s license is invalid. If a law enforcement officer stops you, they will ticket you for driving without the mandatory car insurance and driving without a license.
When you obtain liability insurance, your temporary visitor driver’s license may be valid again.
For questions about the tvdl program or to check the status of your application call: 217-557-0680
