Macon Reporter

Sen. Erica Harriss shared information on changes to Illinois drivers’ licenses set for 2027, stating, "This change aims to reduce the frequency of visits to the DMV, offering convenience to drivers." She made the statement in a Sept. 1 Facebook post.

"Illinois drivers will soon have the option to choose between a four-year or eight-year driver's license," said Harriss, State Senator, according to Facebook. "Senate Bill 275 requires the Secretary of State to establish rules for this process by January 1, 2027, with the new options available to motorists by July 1 of that year. This change aims to reduce the frequency of visits to the DMV, offering convenience to drivers and aligning Illinois with other states that already offer longer license validity periods."

Currently, Illinois drivers must renew their driving licenses every four years by visiting a Secretary of State (SOS) facility or, if they meet the conditions for the Safe Driver program, through online renewal processes, according to the SOS website. Different timelines apply for commercial driving licenses, with information available on the SOS website as well.

Screenshot of Senator Erica Harriss' Sept. 1 Facebook post | Senator Erica Harriss' Facebook page

The bill that Harriss referred to is Senate Bill 245. According to Harriss, drivers will be allowed to choose an 8-year license starting July 1, 2027. The bill was filed by Sen. Dan McConchie on Jan. 31, 2023, and passed the Illinois Senate on April 9, 2024. Harriss was a co-sponsor along with Sen. Andrew Chesney and Sen. Win Stoller. In the House of Representatives, Rep. Ryan Spain was the chief sponsor. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the bill on Aug. 9, and it will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

According to The Center Square's July 15 article covering the signing of this bill, the charge for an 8-year license will be double the cost of a 4-year license.

Harriss has served Illinois' 56th Senate District since 2023. She owns a small business with experience in marketing and communications; she volunteers with local charity organizations and leads youth groups at Metro Community Church. Additionally, she served as a member of the Madison County Board for six years representing its 26th District. Harriss holds a degree in speech communication/public relations from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is an alumna of Edwardsville High School.