Cook County residents with autism or other communication differences can pick up a free blue envelope that signals to police officers they may need extra patience during a traffic stop.
The Cook County Sheriff's Office launched the Blue Envelope Program in June in partnership with the Autism Hero Project, a nonprofit focused on autism advocacy, according to a sheriff's office announcement. The program is free and voluntary. It requires no registration and no personal information.
Participants place copies of their driver's license, registration and insurance inside a bright blue envelope. When handed to an officer during a traffic stop, the envelope lets the officer know the person may benefit from different communication techniques or added patience. The envelope also includes instructions for drivers and tips officers can reference quickly.
The materials are not limited to traffic stops. The sheriff's office said the program also provides support for encounters on foot or in public spaces.
Sheriff Thomas J. Dart said the program is meant to improve communication and reduce stress during law enforcement encounters. He said it would "strengthen trust, enhance safety for everyone involved, and ensure that all residents are treated with dignity, respect, and care."
Where to pick one up
For Park Ridge and Niles residents, the closest pickup spots are the District 2 courthouse in Skokie at 5600 West Old Orchard Road, Room 140, and the District 3 courthouse in Rolling Meadows at 2121 Euclid, Room 122. Envelopes are also available at 12 other Cook County courthouse locations and at community engagement events.
No specific pickup locations in Park Ridge or Niles have been announced. Residents can email [email protected] for more information.
North Shore departments already on board
Several North Shore police departments have adopted their own versions of the program. The Glenview Police Department partnered with the Autism Hero Project in April, and the Winnetka Police Department joined Sept. 10, according to the Chicago Tribune. The Wilmette Police Department also rolled out the program earlier in 2026.
Tamika Lecheé Morales, founder and president of the Autism Hero Project, said the program gives individuals a way to communicate their needs and gives first responders the context to handle encounters with greater patience.
Statewide launch set for Jan. 1
Illinois plans to launch a statewide Blue Envelope Program on Jan. 1, 2027, according to the Secretary of State's office. Free envelopes will be available at all Illinois DMV locations and the Illinois State Library in Springfield. No medical certification or documentation will be required.
The Blue Envelope Program originated in Connecticut in 2020 as a tool for drivers on the autism spectrum who face communication challenges during traffic stops. Several Illinois law enforcement agencies already participate through partnerships with autism advocacy organizations, according to the Secretary of State's office. The statewide program will be the first to offer the same resources across all of Illinois.
