Chicagoans and Drivers Licenses (car rental, to rent, DMV)

[probablyimnotsure]

Is it practical to keep and update your drivers license even though you plan on not having a car in Chicago? Do most Chicagoans keep their drivers licenses for identification purposes and an occasional zip car rental?
This may seem like a stupid question, but I've never lived in a city where public transportation was the best way to get around. I'm from Southern California, please have mercy on me.

[chet everett]

Mod cut.

most folks in even Chicago's densest areas do know how to drive and us a DL for ID.

Secondly despite the anti-car stance of some on these boards the majority of Chicagoans do in fact drive.

It is wise to get an Illinois DL and our Secretary of State that handles licensing makes it easy.

[andrew61]

I haven't been behind the wheel since 2003, but I keep my driver's license current. I would strongly suggest you do the same -- you never know when you might need it.

For example, even if you never drive in the city, you might still want to rent a car during trips out of town.

Even if you don't want to keep your license, you'll still want to get a State ID.

[probablyimnotsure]

Thanks guys.

[reppin_the_847]

I believe you can also get a "State ID" in Illinois. These are cards that give you all the benefits of identification but have nothing to do with your driving privileges. You can also get these at the Secretary of State offices.

[pidgeon92]

If you're capable of driving, you might as well have a license. If you're record is clean, you don't even have to go to a facility to renew it after the first four years, Illinois will send you a letter and invoice to renew it. Then they send you an extension sticker to slap on the expired license.

[glass_of_merlot]

It's good to have a DL. Get it.

[marothisu]

Originally Posted by probablyimnotsure

Is it practical to keep and update your drivers license even though you plan on not having a car in Chicago? Do most Chicagoans keep their drivers licenses for identification purposes and an occasional zip car rental?
This may seem like a stupid question, but I've never lived in a city where public transportation was the best way to get around. I'm from Southern California, please have mercy on me.

I haven't owned a car since I've been here, but I have a driver's license since I am a consultant and never know where I'll be working. Either way, I think it's smart to keep one in case you need to rent/borrow a car. The written test is not terribly difficult. Go to the DMV, pick up an Illinois book and familiarize yourself with the laws of this state and city. The test is 30 questions, matching and multiple choice. I think you pay maybe $40 to take it and they'll print your license right there for you if you pass.

[marothisu]

Okay, the OP should keep his driver's license and take a test at the Secretary of State Drivers Services. The main point of my message has not changed.

[Gramercy]

Keep your driver's license. You never know when you'll need to drive a car. Also, I had a state ID for years and came to hate it. It was more scrutinized and often treated as a lesser form of identification, regardless of the fact that it was DMV issued.