Illinois Creates Special License Plates for Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal Recipients
Illinois residents who earned the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal can now display their service on their license plates.
House Bill 2386, which took effect July 1, allows the Secretary of State to issue special registration plates to medal recipients. The law was sponsored by State Senator Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township).
“I am proud to lead this effort to recognize our nation’s heroes who bravely faced foreign opposition,” Porfirio said. “Illinois has and always will stand behind our service members, who answer the call to defend our freedom during uncertain times.”
The Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, created in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, recognizes service members who served after July 1, 1958, and participated in U.S. military operations, U.N.-supporting operations, or operations assisting friendly foreign nations. Recipients must have encountered foreign-armed opposition or faced an imminent threat.
Who Can Apply
Eligible residents must provide either a photocopy of their DD214 (military discharge papers) showing receipt of the medal, or a letter of verification from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs or the federal government.
How to Apply
Residents can apply at their local DMV or by mailing documentation to:
Secretary of State 501 S. 2nd Street Howlett Building Springfield, IL 62756
Fees
Costs depend on the vehicle and plate type. For a currently titled vehicle receiving the plate for the first time, the registration fee is $151 for standard plates or $41 for motorcycle plates. If current plates expire within 90 days, the fee is the same. If plates do not expire within 90 days, there is no fee. Annual renewal costs $151 for standard plates and $41 for motorcycles. For newly acquired vehicles, title and registration fees apply.
The new plates join other Illinois military-themed registration options honoring service members and veterans.
