License Plate Renewals

We make getting your plate stickers easy.

Why Renewing Your License Plate Is Important

Whether your license plate renewal deadline rolls around every January, December or somewhere in between, this is one task you don’t want to skip. It is required by law to drive in Illinois. Getting it done keeps you from getting stuck with pricey fines or worse.

• How plate stickers work
• What the law says
• What happens if you forget?
• Set a reminder today
• Skip the DMV—we’ll handle it for you!

Those tiny rectangular stickers on license plates are there to show vehicle registration is current in Illinois. Each year, you’re required to renew your registration by getting a new sticker and replacing your old one. This proves your car is legally allowed to be driven on public roads. It also helps you avoid costly fines, tickets, or even towing if you’re caught with expired plates.

Helpful Tip: Pick up your new sticker at any suburban Chicago Cash2Go Financial location. Remove your old one from the upper-right corner of your rear plate, clean the area, and apply the new one in the same spot.

Illinois law requires all vehicles driven on public roads to have up-to-date registration. Most drivers renew annually, although multi-year options may exist. Drivers are expected to renew on time even if they don’t get a reminder from the state. There’s a 30-day grace period after it expires, but after that, you’re at risk of penalties.

Helpful Tip: You don’t need to be near your deadline to get one. Drivers generally have six months to get a new sticker before their old one expires. View renewal costs by vehicle here.

If you don’t renew your license plate in time, you could face fines or citations. Outdated stickers indicate an expired registration, which could lead to problems if you’re pulled over or involved in an accident. Even if the state doesn’t send a reminder, you’re still responsible. A database of state vehicle records lets us know when you can swing by to renew your plates.

Helpful Tip: Cash2Go will get you your sticker. If you’re past the grade period, you will still need to replace the old one, but there may be a late fee attached.

Set a Sticker Reminder Today!

Since not all drivers receive renewal notices, set a recurring calendar reminder to avoid missing your due date. A simple reminder now can prevent unexpected trouble later, helping you stay in control of your time and wallet.

Helpful Tip: Call us first at 847-269-2274 if you have questions about timing.

Fast Facts About Illinois Plate Stickers:

A sticker shows auto registration is valid—Required for legal driving.

Placed on the rear plate (upper right corner)—Easy to verify by law enforcement.

Illinois has a 30-day grace period—Offers a small buffer but doesn’t waive your responsibility.

Annual cost is $151 for standard vehicles—Subject to change; varies by vehicle type.

Bring registration ID, PIN, and payment—Proper documentation is required to renew stickers.

No reminder guaranteed from the state—You’re expected to remember each year.

Helps track drivers, assist in accidents or theft—For public safety and accurate record-keeping.

What Else Should I Know About Plate Renewals?

Renewing your plates annually (or every other year in some cases) is easy. However, there are a few key things to remember so you get it done properly, without any last-minute scrambling.

• Emissions Testing May Be Required First
  • If your vehicle is registered in certain Chicago-area zip codes, you may need to pass an emissions test before renewing your registration. If you skip the test, you won’t be able to renew your sticker, so check your renewal notice or the Illinois EPA website to see if this requirement applies to you.
• Plate Sticker Theft Happens
  • Apply your sticker well! Some drivers have had stickers stolen from their plates. While rare, it’s a known issue. If your sticker goes missing, just let us know you need a replacement. You may need to file a police report and submit paperwork to the Secretary of State before getting your new one.
• Special Plates May Have Different Fees or Requirements
  • If you have personalized plates or specialty plates (e.g., military, disability, or organizational plates), fees and renewal procedures might differ slightly. Double-check your specific plate type, or ask a Cash2Go team member to avoid confusion or surprise charges.
• You Can Renew Up to SIX Months in Advance
  • You don’t have to wait until the last minute. Renewals can be processed up to 180 days before your current sticker expires. The Illinois Secretary of State’s website provides other information on plate renewals and obtaining proper ID.

Don’t risk getting a ticket. Avoid the DMV. Let Cash2Go Financial take care of your:

• License plate needs
• Lost or stolen Illinois plate sticker
• Other routine auto tasks

Keeping your registration current saves time, money, and stress—and helps ensure you’re driving legally year-round. Visit Cash2Go Financial online, or call us any time for help getting a licence plate sticker at 847-269-2274!