Skip a DMV Trip by Visiting the Secretary of State at the Chicago Auto Show

The Secretary of State’s office will offer driver, business and archive services, as well as a distracted driving simulator at this year’s Chicago Auto Show, Secretary Alexi Giannoulias announced.

Attendees can attain various driver services, including applying for a REAL ID, a new driver’s license, a new state ID or renewing a license/ID/Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL). They can also apply for a new license plate using Pick-A-Plate or renew their vehicle registration. Additionally, attendees will have an opportunity to sign up to join the Illinois Organ/Tissue Donation Registry.

“At this year’s auto show, the Secretary of State’s office will offer an array of new driver, business and archive services,” Giannoulias said. “With the deadline for REAL IDs approaching next year, the auto show presents a convenient opportunity for visitors to beat the rush and apply for a REAL ID.”

Before arriving at the auto show with the intention of obtaining one of these services, attendees are encouraged to visit www.ilsos.gov to determine what documents are required for the service they seek.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will require a REAL ID or valid passport for domestic air travel beginning May 7, 2025. Illinoisans who do not fly domestically do not necessarily need a REAL ID. A complete list of acceptable required documents is available at realid.ilsos.gov.

For the first time, the office’s Business Services team will assist those wanting to start a business, file paperwork or look up an existing business and the Archives Department will conduct genealogy searches at no charge.

In partnership with the American Automobile Association (AAA), a driving simulator will offer participants a replication of the experience of driving distracted or impaired to encourage safe driving.