How Long Can You Drive With Expired Tags in Illinois?
Driving with expired tags is considered a violation of the law in Illinois. Vehicle registration is an important aspect of owning a car, and it is crucial to keep it up to date to avoid any legal consequences. In this article, we will discuss the rules and regulations regarding expired tags in Illinois, the potential penalties for driving with expired tags, and answer some frequently asked questions on this matter.
In Illinois, vehicle owners are required to renew their registration annually. It is important to note that the Secretary of State’s office sends out a renewal notice well in advance of the expiration date. This notice serves as a reminder to vehicle owners to renew their tags before they expire. It is the responsibility of the vehicle owner to ensure that their tags are renewed on time.
The expiration date of your license plates can be found on the registration card or on the sticker placed on the rear license plate. It is important to make a note of this date and plan ahead for renewal to avoid any issues.
Driving with expired tags in Illinois is considered a traffic violation. The Illinois Vehicle Code states that it is illegal to operate a vehicle with expired registration. If you are caught driving with expired tags, you may be subject to fines and other penalties.
The penalties for driving with expired tags vary depending on the length of time the tags have been expired. Generally, the longer the tags have been expired, the more severe the penalties. If your tags have been expired for less than 30 days, you may receive a warning or a citation with a fine. However, if your tags have been expired for more than 30 days, the penalties can be more severe.
For tags that have been expired for more than 30 days, the Secretary of State’s office may suspend your vehicle registration. This means that you will not be able to legally operate your vehicle until you have renewed your tags and paid any associated fees. Additionally, driving with a suspended registration can result in additional fines and even potential vehicle impoundment.
It is important to note that law enforcement officers have the ability to run your license plate and check the status of your registration. If they find that your tags have expired, they may issue a citation and potentially impound your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I drive my car if my tags have expired but I have already renewed them?
A: If you have already renewed your tags but have not received the new sticker yet, you may be able to drive your vehicle as long as you have the proof of renewal with you. However, it is always best to wait until you have the new sticker in hand before driving to avoid any potential issues.
Q: Can I renew my tags online?
A: Yes, the Secretary of State’s office in Illinois offers an online platform for tag renewal. This provides a convenient option for vehicle owners to renew their tags from the comfort of their own homes.
Q: What is the fine for driving with expired tags in Illinois?
A: The fine for driving with expired tags in Illinois can vary depending on the length of time the tags have been expired. It is best to check with the Secretary of State’s office for the most up-to-date information on fines and penalties.
Q: How long does it take to receive the new sticker after renewing my tags?
A: It typically takes around 7-10 business days to receive the new sticker after renewing your tags. However, processing times can vary, so it is best to renew your tags well in advance of the expiration date to avoid any delays.
In conclusion, driving with expired tags in Illinois is a violation of the law. It is important to renew your tags on time and ensure that your vehicle registration is up to date to avoid any potential penalties. If your tags have already expired, it is best to renew them as soon as possible to prevent further issues. Remember to plan ahead, renew your tags in a timely manner, and always have proof of renewal with you when driving.