| PRESS RELEASE |
| September 25, 2023 |
| Leen Yassine (773) 502-6625 lyassine@ilsos.gov |
| Giannoulias Announces Additions to Skip-the-Line ProgramPlan includes opening two “Senior Only” centers in Chicago metro areaAdditional appointment capacity added to accommodate driver’s license services |
| Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced his office is implementing a number of additions to the Skip-the-Line program, which launched just three weeks ago. From September 1 to September 21, Illinois Driver and Motor Vehicle facilities (DMVs) have seen more than 165,000 customers by appointment throughout the state. Customers with appointments are experiencing little to no wait times upon arrival at DMVs, which is a vast improvement compared to the hour-plus waits that Illinoisans had come to expect when visiting DMVs before adopting the Skip-the-Line program. “The Skip-the-Line program has been functioning at a high level in the few weeks since its official launch,” Giannoulias said. “But we can still make improvements with targeted adjustments, and I am focused on implementing these to benefit all of our customers, especially our seniors.” Giannoulias announced his office will implement the following additions, many of which are tailored specifically toward seniors:Opening two “Senior Only” walk-in centers in the Chicago area. The two locations include the Evanston Civic Center, 2100 N. Ridge Road in Evanston and Seat Geek Stadium, 7000 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview. Seniors at these locations will not need appointments, as these walk-in centers are specifically designed to meet their needs. By offering this targeted option, the office is prioritizing seniors without impacting customers at DMVs who have made appointments. Seniors still have the option to make a standard appointment at these and other locations.Increasing the number of available appointments. Expanding scheduling availability will increase the number of in-car/road test appointments at Chicagoland DMVs by over 40%, or nearly 1,300 more per day.Adding additional call center features to serve seniors aged 70 and older who require a road exam. These callers will be routed directly to operators who will provide on-the-spot information, schedule appointments or assist with online renewals. Seniors may call 800-252-8980.Adding new features to the appointment website. Customers can now filter DMVs by ZIP code, highlighting appointment openings at DMVs closest to them. |