Illinois

Registered voters do not need to provide an ID when they vote, except for some first-time voters.

Illinois ID Requirements for Voting In Person

You do not need to show ID when you vote in person.

BUT: If it is your first time voting in a federal election in Illinois, please see the federal ID requirements for first-time voters. A federal election is when you vote for the President, your Congressional Representative or your Senators.

Frequently Asked Questions

You may register to vote and cast a ballot on the same day during any early voting period through Election Day (which is known in Illinois as “Grace Period Registration”).

During the grace period, which is the 27 days prior to and including Election Day, you can register and vote on the same day at:

  • the office of your local election authority;
  • a permanent polling place established by your local election authority;
  • any other early voting site beginning 15 days prior to Election Day;
  • some polling places on Election Day;
  • a location specifically designated for this purpose by the election authority.

You should check with your local election authority to determine the locations available to you.

You must show two forms of acceptable ID, with at least one showing your residence address at the time you register to vote, which may include:

  • Driver’s license, state issued ID card or other photo ID
  • Last 4 digits of your social security number
  • a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, government check, or other government document that shows your name and address
  • An ID card issued by a college or university accompanied by either a copy of your contract or lease for a residence or any postmarked mail delivered to your residence address.

If you need to show ID to complete your voter registration, whether you can show your ID on an electronic device may depend on the county where you reside and vote. If it is your first time voting in a federal election in Illinois, please see the federal ID requirements for first-time voters.

Illinois ID Requirements for Voting By Mail

Any registered Illinois voter may apply for a mail-in ballot. No excuse is required.

You do not need a copy of your ID to vote by mail in Illinois.

BUT: If it is your first time voting in a federal election in Illinois, please see the federal ID requirements for first-time voters. A federal election is when you vote for the President, your Congressional Representative or your Senators.

The signature on your mail-in ballot must match your signature on file with the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

If your ballot is rejected because your signature doesn’t match your signature on file with the state, you will be notified within two days of rejection.

You may “cure” (fix) your ballot signature defect within 14 days after the election by visiting your county election authority. Find your local election authority.