### Proof of Identity and Legal Presence You must prove your legal name, date of birth, and that you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States. Acceptable documents include: * A valid U.S. passport or passport card * A certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate * A Consular Report of Birth Abroad * A Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship * A valid Permanent Resident Card (for lawful permanent residents) ### Proof of Social Security Number You must provide proof of your Social Security number (SSN). The document must display your full name and complete SSN. Common acceptable documents include: * An original Social Security card * A W-2 form * A printed pay stub showing your name and full SSN * An SSA-1099 or non-SSA-1099 form ### Proof of Illinois Residency The Illinois Secretary of State requires proof of residency to establish that you live within the state. You must typically present two different documents that display your name and current physical address. P.O. boxes are not accepted as proof of physical residency. Acceptable items include: * Recent utility bills (electric, water, gas, or landline phone) * A current rental agreement or mortgage document * Bank statements or credit card statements * Insurance policies (renters, homeowners, or auto) * Official mail from a federal, state, or municipal government agency ## Medical Certification Requirements
Commercial drivers must meet physical health standards set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Before applying for or renewing a CDL, you must address your medical certification. ### Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) Unless you are exempt, you must bring a valid Medical Examiner's Certificate completed by a certified medical examiner listed on the FMCSA National Registry. This document proves you are physically qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. ### Medical Self-Certification You will be required to self-certify your type of commercial driving (interstate non-excepted, interstate excepted, intrastate non-excepted, or intrastate excepted). This certification determines whether you must maintain a current medical card on file with the Illinois Secretary of State. ## Additional Items to Bring
Beyond identification and medical paperwork, you should prepare to bring the following items to the facility: * **Your Current Driver's License:** If you are upgrading from a standard Class D license or transferring a CDL from another state, you must surrender your current physical license. * **Payment for Fees:** CDL application, licensing, and endorsement fees vary. Illinois Secretary of State locations typically accept cash, checks, major credit cards, and debit cards. * **Endorsement Documentation:** If you are applying for specific endorsements (such as Hazardous Materials, Tanker, or Passenger), you may need to present proof of completed background checks or specialized training certificates. ## How to Verify Requirements and Find Locations Because state policies, fee structures, and accepted document lists can change, you should always verify the latest requirements before making a trip. The most reliable way to confirm this information is through the official Illinois Secretary of State website (ilsos.gov).
The official website features a document checklist tool and a facility finder. Not all Illinois Secretary of State locations offer CDL services or commercial driving road tests. Use the official directory to search for dedicated CDL facilities, check their hours of operation, and determine if you need to schedule an appointment for your written or road exams.
