Illinois is joining several other states in offering digital driver’s licenses to residents. This change comes through Illinois House Bill 4592. The bill was signed into law in August 2024 by Gov. J.B. Pritzker and will allow the Secretary of State to issue both digital driver’s licenses and identification cards. Illinois drivers will soon be able to carry their driver’s license and/or state ID on their smartphone.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about this exciting change.
What Is a Digital Driver’s License?
A digital driver’s license is exactly what it sounds like— an electronic version of your physical license. You can store this digital copy and display it on your smartphone or smartwatch.
Think of it as having a traditional driver’s license in a secure digital format. It should feel much like how you already use digital concert tickets, boarding passes, or even your credit card.
When Can I Get a Digital Copy of My Driver’s License in Illinois?
Illinois drivers will be able to take advantage of this new legislation come January 2025. The Secretary of State’s office will develop and manage the program.
How Much Will It Cost?
Installing the app that will allow you to display a digital driver’s license in Illinois will not exceed $6, according to House Bill 4592.
Do You Need To Have a Digital ID or License?
No, digital driver’s licenses and IDs are completely optional in Illinois. You can choose to:
- Keep using only your physical license and ID card
- Get both a physical and digital license or ID
- Use primarily digital but keep your physical license and/or ID as backup
We recommend keeping your physical license even if you plan to use the digital version primarily. Some situations might still require a physical ID, most notably if and when law enforcement requests a physical copy of your credentials.
Other States With Digital Licenses
Illinois isn’t the first state to implement digital driver’s licenses. Louisiana was the first state in the country to create a digital driver’s license app in 2018. Several other states also currently offer digital licenses, including:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Florida
- Georgia
- Iowa
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- And More
Benefits of Going Digital
Digital driver’s licenses offer several benefits to Illinois residents:
- Always With You: If you have your phone, you have your license.
- Enhanced Security: Digital licenses include security features that make them harder to fake. Your digital license will also be protected by your phone’s security features.
- Contactless Verification: Many places will be able to verify your ID without physically handling it.
- Instant Updates: When it’s time for a license renewal, it’s likely you will be able to update it on your phone. Even if you must wait to receive a new, physical card in the mail, you can have an up-to-date version readily available.
Important Things To Remember
While mobile driver’s licenses may offer many advantages, keep these points in mind:
- Your phone must have enough charge to display your license when needed
- Not all places will accept digital licenses right away
- You should still carry your physical license as backup
Common Questions About Digital Licenses
Can Law Enforcement Accept Digital Licenses?
Yes, Illinois law enforcement will accept digital licenses once the program launches in 2025. However, they can still request a physical copy and you are required by law to provide it.
What Happens if My Phone Dies?
This is why we recommend keeping your physical license as backup. Always ensure your phone has enough charge when you’re driving or plan on using your digital ID.
Will My Information Be Secure?
Yes, digital licenses use advanced encryption and security measures to protect your personal information.
When To Contact a Driver’s License Attorney
While digital licenses make things more convenient, they don’t solve existing issues surrounding your driver’s license, such as:
- A suspended or revoked license
- Out-of-state license reinstatement issues
- Loss of driving privileges due to DUI convictions
- Lifetime license revocation
You need experienced legal help to resolve such issues before you can benefit from the new digital license program.
Contact Johnson & Goldrich, P.C.
If your concerns regarding your driving privileges go beyond having your license on your phone, call Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. At our law firm, we focus exclusively on driver’s license reinstatement. Unlike general practice law firms, we handle nothing else. This focus means:
- We know every detail of Illinois law concerning traffic violations and driver’s licenses
- We stay current with all license-related changes, including the upcoming digital license program
- We have extensive experience working with the Illinois Secretary of State
- We understand exactly what it takes to get your license reinstated after a suspension or revocation
If you’ve lost your driving privileges, contact Johnson & Goldrich, P.C. today. Our skilled Chicago license reinstatement lawyers can help you get back on the road. We’re here to help make sure you’re able to take advantage of having a digital license when the time comes.