Illinois License Plate

Plate Designs

Land of Lincoln (Standard)

Illinois's standard plate is clean and classic — white background with blue lettering, "Illinois" across the top and "Land of Lincoln" along the bottom, honoring Abraham Lincoln who spent most of his adult life in Springfield. It's a straightforward design that has anchored the state's plate lineup for decades.

Truck (Commercial)

Illinois's commercial truck plate shares the same color scheme as the standard plate but carries a truck designation. Illinois is one of the most important freight states in the country — Chicago sits at the intersection of more major interstate highways than any other US city, and the state's agricultural and manufacturing output keeps a massive fleet of commercial vehicles on the road. You'll spot Illinois truck plates on semis all across the country.

How Rare Is It on the Road Trip Game?

Common. Illinois is the sixth most populous state and Chicago is the nation's freight crossroads. Between passenger vehicles and the enormous commercial trucking presence, Illinois plates — especially truck plates — turn up on interstates from coast to coast.

Spotting Tip

I-80, I-90, and I-55 are Illinois plate highways. Keep an eye on the semi-truck lane — Illinois truck plates are among the most frequently seen commercial plates in the country. Any major truck stop on a cross-country interstate is a near-guaranteed sighting.

Fun Fact

Chicago's O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest cargo hubs in the world, and the surrounding metro area handles more rail freight than any other US city — putting Illinois at the literal center of American commerce.

Ready to keep hunting? Head back to the game to check IL off your list, or browse all 50 states in the guide.