Vehicle Information for New City Residents

Q: - How soon must I obtain a city sticker?
A: - You must purchase and display a city vehicle sticker within 30 days of becoming a resident of Chicago. Vehicles that do not display a current city sticker are subject to a ticket and fine. City stickers may be purchased from the Office of the City Clerk. Visit the City Clerk’s website for more information.

Q: - What are the requirements for license plates in Illinois?
A: - State law requires license plates in Illinois be affixed to both the front and rear of passenger vehicles. Other types of vehicles can be subject to this requirement as well. The Illinois Secretary of State requires purchase of annual license plate renewal stickers that must be affixed to the rear license plate as proof of current registration. Vehicles that do not display current license plate registration stickers are subject to a ticket and fine. Visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website for more information.

Q: - What is a residential parking permit?
A: - Some Chicago neighborhoods are zoned for residential parking. Residential parking zones limit parking to residents and their guests during specified hours. This program helps to promote on-street parking for residents of densely populated areas. Residents must purchase and display a residential parking permit for each vehicle that may be parked on the street in a residential zone. Temporary permits are available for purchase by residents who can then
distribute them to guests and visitors. Vehicles failing to display the proper residential zone permit are subject to a ticket and fine. Visit the City Clerk’s website for more information.

Q: - Are there special requirements for pick up trucks and vans?
A: - Your truck or van may be required to display a special permit to park on the street in wards allowing truck and van parking.  Trucks and vans that fail to display the proper permit are subject to a ticket and fine.  There are wards that do not allow truck or van parking at all.  Get more information from the Office of the City Clerk by visiting their website.

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