A standard passenger vehicle registration sticker, commonly called a "car sticker," costs $151 for a one-year renewal in Illinois as of 2024. This is the base fee for most cars, but the final amount can vary based on your vehicle type, your county of residence, and any applicable local taxes or add-ons. The price increases for larger vehicles like trucks and is significantly lower for electric vehicles due to separate fee structures.
The $151 fee is broken down into several components: $50 for standard registration, $100 for the state's road fund, and a $1 service fee. However, your specific cost is calculated by the Illinois Secretary of State based on your vehicle's classification, age, and place of registration. For example, vehicles registered in Cook County pay an additional $15 air pollution control fee. Larger pickup trucks and commercial vehicles are subject to higher fees based on weight.
The most convenient way to pay is through the Illinois Secretary of State's online renewal system. After paying, you'll receive a temporary registration permit to print immediately, and your physical sticker and registration card will arrive by mail within about 10 business days. In-person renewals are also an option. It's crucial to renew on time, as driving with an expired sticker can result in a ticket starting at $120.
| Vehicle Type | Standard 1-Year Fee (Example) | Key Factor Influencing Cost |
|---|
| Standard Passenger Car | $151 | Base state fee |
| Electric Vehicle (EV) | $251 | Includes $100 additional EV fee |
| Large Pickup Truck (8,000 lbs) | $151 (base) + $90 (weight) = $241 | Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) |
| Motorcycle | $51 | Lower base registration rate |
| Cook County Registration | $151 + $15 = $166 | County-specific pollution fee |
| Late Renewal (1st Month) | Base fee + $20 | Timeliness of payment |
