License Plate Renewal in Illinois

1. How often must license plates be renewed in Illinois?


In Illinois, license plates must be renewed on an annual basis.

2. What documents do I need to renew my license plates in Illinois?


To renew your license plates in Illinois, you will need to have your Vehicle Registration Renewal Notice, proof of valid insurance, and payment for the registration fees. You may also need to provide additional documents, depending on the renewal circumstances.

3. What is the fee to renew license plates in Illinois?


A vehicle registration in Illinois typically costs $101.00 for a two year registration period. This fee includes the cost of license plates, title transfer fees, and any applicable local taxes.

4. How do I renew my license plates online in Illinois?


To renew your license plates online in Illinois, you need to have your renewal notice, your credit card information, and a valid email address. You can renew your plates online through the Illinois Secretary of State website. You will need to provide the plate number and the last 4 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle. Once your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email with a copy of your renewed plates.

5. What is the process for replacing stolen or lost license plates in Illinois?


If your license plates have been stolen or lost, you must go to your local Secretary of State facility and file a Vehicle Theft or Loss Report. Once you have reported the theft or loss, you must purchase new plates. You may also be required to present proof of identity, proof of ownership, and payment for the new plate fees. If the plates were stolen, it is recommended that you also report the theft to your local law enforcement agency.

6. Is there a grace period for renewing expired license plates in Illinois?


Yes, there is a one-month grace period for renewing expired license plates in Illinois. After the grace period, drivers may be subject to fines and other penalties.

7. What special license plates are available in Illinois?


In Illinois, drivers may purchase personalized license plates or special interest plates to support charities or special causes. Special interest plates include those for veterans, military members, first responders, antique vehicles, and wildlife conservation. The plates come with added fees which generally go to the chosen cause.

8. Are there any discounts available for license plate renewal in Illinois?


Yes, there are discounts available for license plate renewal in Illinois. A senior citizens discount can be obtained by providing proof of age (65 years or older). Discounts are also available for members of the military who are on active duty or veterans who have a license plate that is marked with the word “Veteran”. Additionally, some counties offer a discount to those who are renewing their license plate early.

9. Does Illinois require emissions testing as a part of license plate renewal?


Yes, Illinois does require emissions testing as a part of license plate renewal. Emissions testing is required for most vehicles registered in the state, and must be completed prior to license plate renewal.

10. How do I transfer a vehicle’s license plate to another vehicle in Illinois?


To transfer a vehicle’s license plate to another vehicle in Illinois, you will need to go to your local Secretary of State office and complete the Vehicle Transfer Notification form. You will need to bring the license plate, the proof of ownership of the new vehicle, and the title or registration of the previous vehicle to the office. The fee is $25. If you are transferring a specialty plate, there may be an additional fee.

11. Are personalized license plates available in Illinois?


Yes, personalized license plates are available in Illinois. They can be ordered through the Illinois Secretary of State’s office.

12. Does Illinois offer a military discount on license plate renewal fees?


No, Illinois does not offer a military discount on license plate renewal fees.

13. Is there a late fee when renewing expired license plates in Illinois?


Yes, there is a late fee when renewing expired license plates in Illinois. The fee is $20, along with regular registration fees.

14. What forms of payment are accepted for license plate renewal in Illinois?


The Illinois Secretary of State will accept payment via cash, check, money order, credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover) or debit card.

15. Does the DMV accept credit cards for payment of license plate renewal fees in Illinois?


Yes, the DMV in Illinois accepts credit cards for payment of license plate renewal fees.

16. Are there any programs that allow seniors to obtain discounts on their license plate renewal fees in Illinois?


Yes. The state of Illinois offers the Senior Citizens License Plate Discount Program. Seniors who are 65 or older, with permanent Illinois license plates, may be eligible for a discounted fee for one set of passenger vehicle, motorcycle, or motor-driven cycle plates. For more information about the program and how to apply, please refer to the Secretary of State website.

17. How do I add a decal to my license plates in Illinois?


In Illinois, you can add a decal to your license plates by visiting a local Secretary of State office and purchasing a specialty plate sticker. The sticker must be applied by a licensed auto body technician, and you may need to present your vehicle registration paperwork when purchasing.

18. What is the process for transferring ownership of a vehicle and renewing the license plates in Illinois?


The process for transferring ownership of a vehicle and renewing license plates in Illinois is fairly straightforward. The first step is to complete the Certificate of Title Application (Form VSD 190). This form must be completed by both the buyer and the seller. It must be signed in the presence of a notary public.

The next step is to obtain an emissions test. This is required for vehicles 1997 or newer and with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 8,500 lbs. or less. The emissions test must be no more than 90 days old when it is submitted with the title application.

Once the title application has been completed and approved, the buyer must register the vehicle with the Secretary of State’s office and pay any required fees. The registration will include expiration tags and license plates. These will need to be renewed annually by paying the appropriate fees.

19. How do I register a vehicle purchased from another state in Illinois?


To register a vehicle purchased from another state in Illinois, you’ll need to visit your local Secretary of State office and submit the following documents:

1. A completed Vehicle Registration Application (Form VSD 190)
2. A valid title or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO) with your name on it or the name of the business if the vehicle is owned by a business
3. Proof of insurance
4. A valid Illinois driver’s license or state ID card
5. A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification form (Form VSD 19) completed by a law enforcement officer or an authorized vehicle emissions inspector
6. Payment for any applicable taxes, title, and registration fees
7. Any other documents requested by your local office

20. Does Illinois offer temporary or short-term license plates?


Yes, Illinois offers temporary license plates. Temporary plates are valid for 90 days from the date of issue and are available for purchase from most Secretary of State facilities.