Temporary Vehicle Registration for Legal Residents and Green Card Holders in Illinois

What Is Temporary Vehicle Registration for Legal Immigrants and Green Card Holders in Illinois?

In Illinois, legal immigrants and green card holders who are unable to obtain a valid driver’s license may apply for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). The TVDL is a valid form of identification that allows legal immigrants and green card holders to drive legally in Illinois while they are in the process of obtaining a permanent driver’s license. The TVDL also comes with a temporary vehicle registration that is valid for up to four years.

How Long Can Legal Immigrants and Green Card Holders Register a Vehicle Temporarily in Illinois?

In Illinois, legal immigrants and green card holders can register a vehicle temporarily for up to 12 months.

Do Legal Immigrants Need a Valid U.S. Driver’s License for Temporary Registration in Illinois?

Yes, legal immigrants will need a valid U.S. driver’s license for temporary registration in Illinois. All drivers in the state must be properly licensed, regardless of immigration status.

Can Green Card Holders Register Vehicles Temporarily with a Foreign Driver’s License in Illinois?

No, a green card holder cannot register a vehicle in Illinois with a foreign driver’s license. In order to register a vehicle in Illinois, the driver must present a valid Illinois driver’s license or an Illinois State ID card. There are no exceptions to this rule.

Is Temporary Registration Available for Non-Immigrant Visa Holders in Illinois?

Yes, temporary registration is available for non-immigrant visa holders in Illinois. The Illinois Secretary of State’s office offers a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) for non-immigrant visa holders. This is available to non-immigrant visa holders from countries with a reciprocal agreement with the U.S. to issue driver’s licenses or identification cards. To apply, the applicant must submit a valid passport and other required documents. The TVDL is valid for three years, and must be renewed after that period has expired.

Are There Special Requirements for Temporary Registration, Such as Insurance in Illinois?

In Illinois, all vehicles must have liability insurance regardless of whether they are registered temporarily or not. Temporary registration allows the owner to legally operate the vehicle without having to go through the full registration process. Temporary registrations may be issued for up to six months.

Can Legal Immigrants or Green Card Holders Extend Temporary Vehicle Registration in Illinois?

Yes, legal immigrants and green card holders are eligible to extend temporary vehicle registration in Illinois. However, to do so they must provide documentation that proves their legal residency status such as a valid Permanent Resident Card (USCIS Form I-551) or a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Is There a Waiting Period for Applying for Temporary Vehicle Registration in Illinois?

There is no waiting period for applying for temporary vehicle registration in Illinois. A temporary registration is valid for 90 days. To apply, drivers need to visit a local Secretary of State facility with the vehicle title or registration application, proof of valid liability insurance, and payment for the applicable fees.

What Documentation Is Required for Temporary Vehicle Registration in Illinois?

In order to obtain temporary vehicle registration in Illinois, drivers must provide proof of insurance, their vehicle registration application, and the applicable fees for the vehicle registration. Drivers must also provide proof of Illinois residency and proof of ownership of the vehicle, such as a bill of sale or a title.

How Much Does Temporary Vehicle Registration Cost for Legal Immigrants and Green Card Holders in Illinois?

There is no charge for temporary vehicle registration in Illinois for legal immigrants and green card holders. However, they must still pay applicable registration fees, title fees, and taxes.

Can Temporary Registrants Drive the Vehicle Out of State in Illinois?

No. Temporary registrants are not allowed to drive the vehicle out of state. The vehicle must remain in Illinois for the duration of the temporary registration.

Is Temporary Vehicle Registration Transferable to a New Owner in Illinois?

No, temporary vehicle registration is not transferable to a new owner in Illinois. A new owner must apply for their own registration and title.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Type of Vehicles Eligible for Temporary Registration in Illinois?

Yes, there are restrictions on the type of vehicles eligible for temporary registration in Illinois. Temporary registration is available for passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and trailers. Specialized vehicles, such as school buses and farm equipment, are not eligible for temporary registration.

Can Legal Immigrants or Green Card Holders Renew Temporary Registration in Illinois?

Yes, legal immigrants or green card holders can renew temporary registration in Illinois. Temporary registrations can be renewed for up to two years with proof of valid immigration status. Renewal applications can be completed online or in person at a Secretary of State facility. All applicants must bring proof of valid immigration status when applying.

What Happens If Temporary Registration Expires Without Renewal in Illinois?

If a vehicle’s temporary registration expires without being renewed in Illinois, the vehicle must be removed from the road and can no longer be driven in the state. Depending on the circumstances, the vehicle owner may be subject to fines, and the vehicle may need to be re-registered and inspected.

Is Temporary Vehicle Registration Available for Commercial Vehicles in Illinois?

No, temporary vehicle registration is not available for commercial vehicles in Illinois.

Can Legal Immigrants or Green Card Holders Get Temporary Plates Immediately in Illinois?

Yes, legal immigrants and Green Card holders in Illinois are eligible to obtain temporary plates immediately. Drivers must bring proof of legal residency and a valid driver’s license to the Secretary of State Facility to register the vehicle. Once the vehicle is registered, temporary plates may be issued.

What Steps Are Involved in Applying for Temporary Vehicle Registration in Illinois?

1. Gather necessary documentation. To register a vehicle in Illinois, you will need your driver’s license or state ID, vehicle title, proof of liability insurance, and payment for applicable fees.

2. Obtain an emissions test. Vehicles manufactured after 1976 must pass an emissions test before being registered. If you plan to register a vehicle from outside of Illinois, you may need to obtain an out-of-state emissions test as well.

3. Complete the application for temporary registration. You can find the application for temporary vehicle registration at your local Secretary of State office or online at CyberDriveIllinois.com.

4. Submit your application and required documents. Once you have completed the application form, submit it along with the necessary documents and fees to your local Secretary of State office or mail it to the address provided on the application.

5. Receive your temporary registration sticker. Once your application has been approved, you will receive a temporary registration sticker that must be affixed to your vehicle’s windshield or rear window before you can drive it legally on Illinois roads.

Are There Any Penalties for Violating Temporary Vehicle Registration Rules in Illinois?

Yes, violating temporary vehicle registration rules in Illinois can result in a Class C misdemeanor charge if the vehicle registration has expired for more than one year. This can lead to a fine up to $1,500 and a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days.

Where Can Legal Immigrants and Green Card Holders Obtain Temporary Vehicle Registration Forms in Illinois?

Legal immigrants and green card holders in Illinois can obtain temporary vehicle registration forms from the Illinois Secretary of State website at CyberDriveIllinois.com. Forms can also be obtained at any local Driver Services Facility or at Vehicle Registration and Title offices throughout the state.