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Voter Resources: ID Requirements for Illinois Voters

This page offers quick links, resources and information about voting in IL. Everything from checking your voter status to researching election runners can be found here.

ID Requirements for Illinois Voters

ID Requirements for Registration

Online Registration

For online voter registration, an Illinois driver's license or state ID is required.

Mail-in Registration

If you do not have a driver’s license, State Identification Card or social security number, and this form is submitted by mail, and you have never registered to vote in the jurisdiction you are now registering in, then you must send, with this application, either (i) a copy of a current and valid photo identification, or (ii) a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows the name and address of the voter. If you do not provide the information required above, then you will be required to provide election officials with either (i) or (ii) described above the first time you vote at a voting place or by absentee ballot.

ID Requirements for Voting

First-Time Voters

First-time voters who registered by mail and did not submit their driver’s license number, state ID number, last four digits of their social security number, or other form of ID are required to present identification showing their name and address before voting.

All Other Voters

Voters who are registered at their current address and are voting at the correct precinct do not require ID unless:

  • Challenged by an election judge (1 form of ID required)
  • Voter is registering during grace period or changing address (2 forms of ID required)

Voters who lack required ID may vast a provisional ballot and then must present ID to election authorities within 7 days.

Where to get an ID

Department of Motor Vehicles

Obtaining a Driver’s License

Obtaining a non-driver photo ID: