Documents for an Illinois instruction permit or first license

What the four document groups prove

Illinois uses document groups to verify written signature, date of birth and lawful status where applicable, Social Security information and Illinois residency. The exact combination depends on whether you choose a standard credential or REAL ID.

• Group A: written signature.
• Group B: date of birth and qualifying identity/lawful-status documents.
• Group C: Social Security number evidence when required.
• Group D: Illinois residency.

REAL ID needs two residency documents

For a first REAL ID, Illinois requires one qualifying document from Groups A, B and C and two from Group D. The state advises applicants to use the current REAL ID checklist because acceptable documents and timing rules matter.

Bring accepted originals or certified documents

The Secretary of State says photocopies are not accepted. Documents also must be valid and within the accepted timeframes unless the state list specifically says otherwise.