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RESOURCES
Ensure a smooth visit by browsing these helpful travel tips and customs to familiarize yourself with Illinois before you arrive.
  • General Information Open or Close
    CLOTHING SIZES
    Different sizing is used in the UK, Europe, Japan and the U.S. The following charts show the standard U.S. and international clothing size and shoe size conversions.
    CLOTHING SIZE CONVERSION CHART
    Print Window
    SHOE SIZE CONVERSION CHART
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    CURRENCY
    The dollar is the basic unit of American currency. Foreign currency is not accepted. You can exchange currency at both O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. Currency can also be exchanged at large commercial banks and currency exchanges found throughout Chicago. Calculate and compare currencies with this Currency Converter tool.
    DRIVING REGULATIONS
    • Legal driving age is 16 years old.
    • Legal car rental age is typically 25 however this varies per company.
    ELECTRICITY
    The U.S. uses 110-120 volts. 60 cycles is standard. If your small appliance uses 220-240 volts, you’ll need to bring a voltage converter and a plug adapter with two flat parallel pins.
    LIQUOR, GAMING AND SMOKING REGULATIONS
    • Legal drinking and gaming age is 21 (photo ID with birth date or passport required).
    • Legal smoking age is 18 (photo ID with birth date or passport required). Illinois smoking regulations are in effect in most public places. Learn More
    TIME ZONE
    Illinois is in the Central Standard Time Zone (six hours earlier than GMT). CST is also one hour earlier than the East Coast and two hours later than the West Coast.
    See More Time Zones
    TIPPING
    The custom of tipping personnel is a generally accepted practice in Illinois.
    • 15-20% for restaurant wait staff, bartenders and taxicab drivers for standard service.
    • About $2 for hotel doorman and valet parkers.
    • $2 per bag for bellhops.
    TOURISM & CONVENTION BUREAUS
    AND TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERS
    Find local tourism and convention bureaus throughout Illinois.
    Learn More
  • Important Phone Numbers Open or Close
    EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
    Call 911 toll-free from any public telephone to obtain police, fire, or medical assistance. For less urgent requests, call the local non-emergency number for the police.
    NON-EMERGENCY CALLS IN CHICAGO
    Call 311 to request information about services and programs within the City of Chicago, including festivals, parades and more.
    DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE
    • For local numbers, dial 411
    • For long-distance, dial 1 + AREA CODE + 555-1212
    • For toll-free, dial 1 + 800 + 555-1212
    LOCAL CALLS
    There are multiple area codes in Illinois. When making a local call, dial 1 + AREA CODE + PHONE NUMBER.
  • Special Interest Travelers Open or Close
    GAY & LESBIAN
    Explore a vibrant LGBT scene that includes specialty shopping, dining, a lively nightlife and more.
    Learn More
    TRAVELERS WITH DISABILITIES
    Easy Access guides for Chicago and Springfield help travelers with disabilities and their families get the most from their holiday here.
    Chicago Easy Access Guide
    Springfield Easy Access Guide
    TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN
    Find plenty of kid-friendly accommodations, attractions and events to inspire travel ideas in Chicago and Illinois for the whole family.
    Learn More
  • Visa Information Open or Close
    NEW TRAVEL PROCEDURES FOR VISITING THE U.S.
    International travelers who are seeking travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program are now subject to enhanced security requirements. All eligible travelers who wish to travel under the Visa Waiver Program must apply for authorization. Click here to review the 4-step process and to apply.
    VISA OVERVIEW
    Learn about different types of U.S. visas, the application process and requirements for traveling to the U.S.
    Learn More
    FREQUENTLY REQUESTED VISA INFORMATION
    Quick links to the most commonly asked questions about U.S. visa policies.
    Learn More
    FOREIGN CONSULATES
    Foreign consulates provide visas, as well as help for international travelers.
    Learn More
O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Approximately 200,000 travelers pass through O’Hare each day.