Illinois’ Secretary Of State Is Making Changes At The DMV

Okay, before you say "Aaaaaactually, Illinois doesn't have a DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles), because here in this state it's called the Illinois Secretary of State's Drivers License Facilities," I must point out that I know that. It's just that DMV covers the same sort of thing, and it's easier to say. Actually.

So why do so many people here in Illinois just go ahead and call it the DMV? Because many people watch TV, and many shows are shot in California, where they have a DMV, so the acronym works because we've seen it so many times in movies and on TV.

Our Neighboring States Here In The Midwest Are DMVers or BMVers, Too

In most of our neighboring states, the Secretary of State is involved in elections a lot more than they are with making sure your license and registration are valid and up to date. Leave Illinois, and you're more likely to need a Department or Bureau of Motor Vehicles than a secretary of state for all your licensing needs.

• Iowa: DMV
• Indiana: BMV
• Wisconsin: DMV
• Missouri: DMV
• Michigan: DMV
• Kentucky: DMV
• Illinois: Secretary of State

Here's What's Going To Be Different About Visiting An Illinois Secretary Of State Driver's License Facility

Earlier this week, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias made the announcement that a "Skip-the-Line" program would be implemented at Illinois' busiest DMVs, which would then allow for extended hours and appointment scheduling.

From the Illinois Secretary of State's website, The Skip-the-Line program includes:

Simplified Online Services — Customers are encouraged to take advantage of the many services offered online at ilsos.gov, including renewing their driver’s license or ID card and license plate sticker online.

Appointment Scheduling — Customers will be required to make appointments for in-person visits at 44 of the busiest DMVs including all Chicago and suburban locations and some central and downstate DMVs for those seeking REAL ID, driver’s license and ID card services, and in-car driving tests.

Those seeking vehicle-related services, such as title and registration or renewing their license plate sticker, do not need to make an appointment and can just walk in.

Upon arrival, customers will check in with DMV staff and “Skip the Line,” eliminating lines and unpredictable wait times. Illinoisans may visit ilsos.gov or call (844) 817-4649 to schedule an appointment.

New Extended Hours of Operation — All DMVs statewide will extend hours of operation, with 16 facilities open six days a week – Monday through Saturday.
• All DMVs will change their days and hours of operation from Tues-Sat to Mon-Fri,
8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• 16 DMVs will also be open on Saturday, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.