Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias asking drivers to "Ditch the DMV" and go online
CHICAGO (CBS) — Illinois wants you to "Ditch the DMV."
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who oversees the state's driver services centers, is trying to cut down on wait times by offering more services online.
"I am asking Illinoisans to begin 2024 by making a New Year's resolution. Don't come to the DMV," Giannoulias said.
His office has expanded eligibility for renewing driver's licenses and state ID cards online, meaning nearly half of the 2.25 million Illinoisans who need to renew this year can do so online.
The Secretary of State's website has a new feature to determine in real-time if you can renew your driver's license or ID online by entering your license or ID number, Social Security number, and date of birth.
If you do need to visit a driver's services center in person, the system will direct you to a link to schedule an appointment. Users can also get text notifications to remind them of upcoming appointments.
The state also has set up a dedicated phoneline to help with accessing online services, at 800-252-8980. Staff will be able to help set up appointments and answer questions about requirements or eligibility.
Since September, the state also has opened four "senior only" DMV centers in Bridgeview, Evanston, Westchester, and Calumet Park, which allow walk-in service without an appointment; and four new road testing centers for drivers who need to take a road test to obtain or renew their license. The new testing centers are in Chicago, Addison, Lockport, and Naperville.
The new testing centers are aimed at freeing up appointments at other driver services facilities for people who don't need to take a road test.
