The Village of Oak Park | 123 Madison St.  Oak Park, IL 60302 | village@oak-park.us

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New virtual vehicle licenses greener, more efficient

Oak Parkers who renew or purchase annual vehicle licenses beginning in mid-May may notice a major change to the decades old system — the new licenses will be in a database at Village Hall, with nothing to apply to the windshield.

Every Oak Park resident who owns or leases a motor vehicle is required to purchase a vehicle license before July 15 to get the lowest rate, which increases by $20 after the deadline. Failure to purchase a license also could result in a $78 ticket. A current vehicle license is needed to purchase a parking permit.

Vehicle license fees help support a wide range of critical public services, including street and alley improvements.

Beginning with 2019/2020 season, vehicle licenses will be issued through a new automated system that allows parking enforcement officers to use electronic license plate recognition technology to scan a plate and know if the owner is in compliance with the local vehicle registration law.

The new stickerless vehicle licenses are part of a broader move to eliminate all physical vehicle-related decals, including those for parking permits and passes, a move that improves operational efficiencies and supports the community’s environmental sustainability goals.

Renewal notices sent to current license holders include instructions on how to setup an account in the new parking system. A unique identification code provided in the notice allows a vehicle owner to import and verify most data, including address and telephone number, and vehicle information.

Owners also can help the Village reduce its impact on the environment by opting out of all paper correspondence in favor of electronic communications.

In a change from previous years, first-time vehicle license purchasers also will be able to complete the process online via a link at www.oak-park.us/onlineservices, which they must do within 30 days of moving to Oak Park or having purchased a new vehicle.

First-time vehicle license purchasers must provide proof of residency, such as a signed lease, utility bill or other government-issued item. A driver’s license and vehicle information also are required.  

Vehicle license rates vary by type of vehicle. Persons age 65 and older, and anyone who has a state-issued handicapped license plate or placard, can apply for a discount. Disabled and active-duty veterans with the proper documentation can apply for free vehicle licenses.

For more information, call 708.358.7275, visit www.oak-park.us/parking or email parking@oak-park.us.