Secretary of State Chicago Office — Local services in Chicago

My friend, who is here in the United States under asylum protection, went to renew his driver’s license three times this week, each time with a scheduled appointment. Unfortunately, during his visit, he was profiled by an employee named Reina, who questioned his legal status and country of origin. He immediately felt discriminated against.

This raises serious concerns. Why should a person under lawful protection be subjected to such treatment? If Illinois extends driving privileges to millions of immigrants through the Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) program, why should someone with asylum—a recognized legal status—be treated differently?

It is difficult to ignore the possibility that stigma or bias against the Venezuelan community may be influencing this kind of behavior. Such treatment feels not only unconstitutional but also discriminatory and contrary to the values of fairness and equality that government agencies are expected to uphold.

Employees at the Secretary of State’s office must be held to the same professional standards as any other public agency. If you or someone you know has experienced discrimination, please contact the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR). Your voice matters—and you have the right to be treated with dignity...

I had a drivers test appointment yesterday at 1:15. My test did not take place until 3:00. When my test finally started a woman came to my car the driving tester and started yelling at me where is your permit and let me see it with a very hard tone. Once the test started the woman started accusing me of not practicing and accusing my parents of not teaching me right. It was not like I was making a mistake that I did not stop at a red light. O not at all she just started yelling at me the whole time and then she failed me. I thought I did good it wasn’t like I was messing up. Try to imagine driving and someone just yelling in your ear and that is what it was like. I will never go back to this DMV again for my test. The people or rude and make you feel uncomfortable. I am so ashamed we have people like...

Typically going to the DMV is not a pleasant experience, however this secretary of state express office stands out for their efficiency, professionalism, and courtesy. The lines move quickly, the employees make frequent announcements with important information so you know if you're in the wrong place right away instead of waiting in line for no reason. They are happy friendly and very patient.

I was sent here by an employee from another location for a service that isn't offered at this one and the person I spoke with was very sympathetic and took care of me anyway.

I will definitely be returning here as opposed to some of the other less pleasant locations. Keep in mind that this office offers limited services so check the website before...