Driving with a suspended license in Illinois can result in severe penalties, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and even jail time. Whether due to unpaid tickets, DUI offenses, or accumulating too many traffic violations, a suspended license can impact your daily life.
If you’re unsure about the status of your Illinois driver’s license, it’s essential to check it promptly. Here are three reliable ways to determine if your license is suspended and what to do next.
1. Check Your License Status Online
The Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) offers an online service to check your driver’s license status. This is one of the easiest and fastest ways to determine if your license is suspended.
Steps to Check Online:
- Visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website (ilsos.gov).
- Navigate to the “Driving Record Abstract” section.
- Enter your driver’s license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
- Pay the required fee (usually around $12).
- View or download your driving record to check for any suspensions.
Important Notes:
- The online report will show your driving history, including violations, suspensions, and reinstatement requirements.
- If you find your license is suspended, follow the steps provided to restore your driving privileges.
2. Contact the Illinois Secretary of State by Phone or In-Person
If you prefer speaking with a representative, you can check your driver’s license status by calling or visiting an Illinois Secretary of State office.
By Phone:
- Call the Illinois SOS at (217) 782-2720 during business hours.
- Provide your driver’s license number, name, and date of birth.
- Ask the representative to confirm whether your license is suspended.
In-Person Visit:
- Go to a local Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services facility.
- Bring a valid ID and any relevant documents.
- Request a Driving Record Abstract to see the status of your license.
Benefits of Calling or Visiting:
- You can ask questions directly and get detailed explanations.
- If your license is suspended, you may receive guidance on reinstatement steps.
3. Review Your Mail for Suspension Notices
If your license is suspended, the Illinois Secretary of State usually sends a notification by mail. This letter includes details on:
- The reason for the suspension.
- The effective date of the suspension.
- Steps required for reinstatement.
What to Do If You Receive a Suspension Notice:
- Read the notice carefully to understand why your license is suspended.
- Follow any instructions provided to resolve the issue.
- If necessary, contact the Illinois SOS for clarification or legal assistance.
What If You Didn’t Receive a Notice?
- Some drivers may not receive mail due to address changes or postal errors.
- If you suspect your license may be suspended but haven’t received a notice, use one of the other two methods to confirm your status.
How to Reinstate a Suspended License in Illinois
If you discover that your Illinois driver’s license is suspended, you must take steps to reinstate it. The process varies based on the reason for the suspension, but common steps include:
1. Pay Any Outstanding Fines or Fees
- Unpaid tickets or court fees often lead to suspensions. Pay all fines to move forward with reinstatement.
2. Complete Required Programs
- If your suspension resulted from a DUI, you may need to complete an alcohol education program or traffic school.
3. Obtain SR-22 Insurance (If Required)
- Some suspensions require SR-22 insurance, a special high-risk auto insurance policy.
4. Submit a Reinstatement Application
- After meeting all requirements, submit a license reinstatement application through the Illinois SOS office.
- Pay the reinstatement fee (typically $70-$500, depending on the offense).
5. Wait for Confirmation
- Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive confirmation that your license is reinstated.
Conclusion
Checking if your Illinois driver’s license is suspended is crucial to avoid legal trouble and fines. By using the online SOS system, calling or visiting a state office, or reviewing mailed notices, you can quickly confirm your license status.
If your license is suspended, take immediate action to resolve the issue and apply for reinstatement. Staying informed about your driving record ensures you remain legally compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.
