Online Sales For Chicago City Stickers Up 50%

The increase in internet sales can be attributed to a lot of hard work promoting and advertising the online option, according to Kristine Williams, Information Coordinator for the Clerk's office. The Clerk's office mailed 1.2 million renewal notices out this year, did an e-mail blast reminding all of last year's online customers it was time to renew and opened up online sales to customers two weeks before in-person sales began.

"We sent out more renewal notices than ever and by showing people that option and how easy it is, more people are purchasing online and telling other people how fast and convenient it is," said Williams. "

Williams says increased internet sales and the improvement in city sticker printing technology, has had the added benefit of reducing customer wait time in lines at City Hall with times running an average of 20 minutes compared to an hour or two wait time just a year ago.

Although lines at Dept. of Revenue substations still seem to be lengthy, with wait times of 60-90 minutes at some locations.

All vehicles registered at addresses located within the City of Chicago are required to purchase and display an annual city vehicle sticker on the lower portion of the passenger side of their vehicle's windshield. Failure to do so could result in a $120 fine.

Motorists have until June 30th, the official deadline, to purchase the 2009-2010 sticker. But in reality they have a 15-day grace period, until July 15th, before enforcement begins.

Besides purchasing online, you can purchase your city stickers at City Hall, City Clerk Satellite Offices, Department of Revenue Substations, at Aldermanic ward offices on certain days, and more than 300 community vendors including Dominick's grocery stores, currency exchanges and select banks. For a list of locations and participating banks and Dominick's, check the City Clerk's website at: www.ChiCityClerk.com.