Operation Desert Shield/Storm License Plates Guide
Fees
Standard License Plates
Random-Number, Vanity and Personalized License Plates
- Newly acquired vehicle/first-time issuance - $301 ($150 title fee + $151 registration fee)
- Currently titled vehicle/first-time issuance - $151 ($151 registration fee)
- Current plates expire within 90 days - $151 ($151 registration fee)
- Current plates do not expire within 90 days - $0
- Annual renewal - $151 ($151 registration fee)
Motorcycle License Plates
Random-Number, Vanity and Personalized License Plates
- Newly acquired vehicle/first time issuance - $191 ($150 title fee + $41 registration fee)
- Currently titled vehicle/first time issuance - $41
- Current plates expire within 90 days - $41
- Annual renewal - $41
To Apply
- A photocopy of DD214 (discharge from military service) indicating receipt of the Operation Desert Shield/Storm or a letter from the Department of Veterans' Affairs or the federal government verifying service is required.
- The request can only be processed in Springfield. Apply in person or mail the proper documentation to:
Secretary of State
501 S. 2nd St.
Howlett Building, Room 541
Springfield, Illinois 62756
Availability
- Public Act 99-0805 allows transfer of plates to spouses of military service members. "Upon the death of a military service member who has been issued plates the surviving spouse of that service member may retain the plate so long as that spouse is a resident of Illinois and transfers the registration to his or her name within 180 days of the death of the service member".
- Operation Desert Shield/Storm license plates are multi-year and may be displayed on passenger vehicles, trucks and vans weighing 8,000 pounds or less and sport utility vehicles.
- Eligible for Benefit Access Program
Renewal Methods
- Operation Desert Shield/Storm license plates can be renewed online, by mail, touch-tone phone, or visit a Secretary of State Facility.