Navigating the Restricted Driving Permit Pickup Process in Chicago

For many Illinois residents seeking to regain driving privileges after a revocation, the process of obtaining a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP) is a major milestone. Historically, once approved for an RDP, an individual would need to wait several weeks for the Secretary of State to mail the permit. This delay not only extended the time before driving could resume but also created additional complications—especially in cases where a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) was required. The driver would generally wait for the permit to arrive before even scheduling the installation of the BAIID device.

In an effort to streamline the process and reduce wait times, the Illinois Secretary of State has launched a pilot program that allows approved petitioners to pick up their permits at designated locations in the Chicago area. This initiative is designed to offer greater convenience and faster access to driving privileges for those who have completed the required steps to obtain a permit. Below is an overview of how this pilot program works.

Step 1: Call the Secretary of State to Arrange Pickup

The process begins with a phone call to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. The designated number for RDP pickup scheduling is (800) 252-8980. Once connected to the automated system, the caller should select option 5, followed by option 1. This will direct the call to the appropriate department.

During the call, a representative will confirm whether the individual’s file is ready for permit issuance. If the file is not yet ready, the caller will be advised to try again in a few days. If it is ready, the representative will move forward with scheduling the pickup.

Step 2: Select a Pickup Location

When the file has been approved for release, the caller will be asked to choose one of the available pickup locations. There are currently six locations participating in the pilot program, five of which are in Chicago and one in Springfield:

• 17 N State St, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL
• 115 S Lasalle, Chicago, IL
• 5401 N Elston Ave, Lower Level, Chicago, IL
• 9902 S Dr Martin Luther King Dr, Lower Level, Chicago, IL
• 5301 W Lexington, Lower Level, Chicago, IL
• 2701 S Dirksen Parkway, Room 103, Springfield, IL

The chosen location will receive the permit once it has been processed.

Step 3: Wait for Notification That Permit is Ready

After selecting a pickup site, the next step is to wait for notification from the Secretary of State that a permit is ready for pickup. When the permit has been printed and forwarded to the chosen office, that location should reach out by phone or email to inform the petitioner that the permit is ready for pickup.

This stage generally takes about one week, although processing times may vary. It is important to wait for the official notification before attempting to retrieve the permit, as the permit may not be ready if a petitioner tries to walk-in earlier for pickup.

Step 4: Pick Up the Permit

Once the designated pickup location contacts the petitioner, arrangements can be made to collect the permit. At that time, it’s important to ask what identification or documents may be required to complete the process. A valid photo ID is commonly needed.

The pickup process itself is generally straightforward. The staff at the selected Secretary of State facility will provide the permit and may also supply any additional documentation relevant to the permit, such as information on BAIID installation (when required).

Next Steps: Installing the BAIID (if required)

In many cases, the RDP comes with a requirement to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). When applicable, the permit packet will include a list of approved BAIID providers along with instructions for scheduling an installation appointment. Only after the BAIID is properly installed will the permit allow for lawful driving under the specified restrictions.

About Our Office

Wirth Law focuses exclusively on Illinois driver’s license reinstatement and DUI defense. With over two decades of experience, our firm is committed to helping clients navigate the complexities of the reinstatement process efficiently and effectively.

What Sets Our Office Apart:

• Transparent flat-rate pricing
• Evening appointments available
• More than 20 years of experience in driver’s license reinstatement
• Recognized as a top-rated firm on Avvo and Justia
• Jennifer Wirth named among the Best DUI Defense Attorneys in Chicago by Expertise.com
• Recipient of multiple client service awards, including Avvo Client Choice and Martindale Hubbell Client Champion

For those navigating Illinois driver’s license reinstatement issues, Wirth Law provides free consultations. To schedule, call (312) 761-8290 or visit our website to complete the contact form.