How to get your Illinois driver’s license on your phone

Legislation allowing Illinois residents to carry a digital driver’s license or ID on their smartphone will take effect in 2025.

The Illinois General Assembly unanimously passed legislation allowing motorists to download an electronic version of their driver’s license or identification card to their phones.

Residents will need to download a unique app on their phones in order to access the digital ID. Illinois will soon join the majority of states that are in the process or are already offering mobile driver’s licenses for use at stores and traffic stops.

The legislation also declares the mobile version of the identification card or driver’s license will not replace the physical copy and is not required but will instead work as a companion, allowing Illinoisans to use either format. There is an exception for law enforcement officials who may request the physical copy.

For those worried about the cost, the legislation states the fee to install the app and download the mobile license will not exceed $6.

TSA already allows fliers to use their mobile identification at airports, with other agencies sure to follow if Gov. J.B. Pritzker signs the legislation into law.

This means Illinoisans will be able to stop worrying about forgetting or losing their licenses and will now be able to access them from anywhere with a few clicks.