🚗Official 2026 Handbook
Illinois Driver's Handbook 2026
Official Driver's Handbook / DMV Manual published by Illinois Secretary of State. Available in 1 language.
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As your Secretary of State, I am committed
to improving road safety to protect the lives
and well-being of everyone who uses our
roadways. The Rules of the Road is a helpful
resource to learn or refresh your knowledge
of traffic laws and safe driving behaviors.
I encourage you to review this book whether you are applying for a
driver’s license for the first time or are a longtime licensed driver
seeking to renew your license. Raising the driving public’s awareness
of avoiding hazardous driving behaviors is critical for Illinois to reduce
traffic fatalities.
I also want to highlight an important date change to the federal REAL
ID Act. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security extended the
deadline to May 7, 2025. This means the federal government will
require your driver’s license or ID card (DL/ID) to be REAL ID compliant
for use as identification to board domestic flights by May 7, 2025.
Our office provides you with a choice because not everyone will need
a REAL ID. You decide if you need a REAL ID or standard DL/ID. For
more information about the REAL ID program, visit REALID.ilsos.gov or
call 833-503-4074.
Thank you for your interest in reviewing the Rules of the Road. Working
together, we can make safer roads a reality and save lives.
Alexi Giannoulias
Illinois Secretary of State
Illinois Rules of the Road 2025
goes into effect May 7, 2025.
Your current Illinois driver’s license or ID card (DL/ID) will be accepted at airports
until May 7, 2025. We are providing you with the choice either to obtain a REAL ID
card or to keep a standard card. Take time to know your options.
You DO NOT NEED a REAL ID if:
• You have a valid U.S. passport
or passport card; or
• You do not use airplanes as a mode
of domestic transportation; or
• You do not visit military bases; or
• You do not visit secure federal facilities.
You NEED a REAL ID if:
• You do not have a valid U.S. passport
or passport card; AND
• You use airplanes as a mode
of domestic transportation; or
• You visit military bases; or
• You visit secure federal facilities.
Action Standard
DL/ID
REAL ID
DL/ID
Driving (DL only) YES YES
Using for general
identification purposes YES YES
Boarding a domestic flight
(U.S.) after May 7, 2025 NO YES
Entering a military base or
secure federal facility NO YES
For additional information:
833-503-4074
Printed by authority of the State of Illinois by union employees. September 2024 – 1 – DSD A 112.44
or visit:
REALID.ilsos.gov
Know your options.
Application Process for Standard
Driver’s License or ID
If your DL/ID is currently valid and not expiring soon, you
do not need to do anything.
STEP 1: If your DL/ID is expiring soon, visit a Secretary of State
DMV and take your photo and the required exams.
STEP 2: Receive a temporary, secure paper DL/ID at the facility.
STEP 3: After review and verification of documents have been
conducted, your new permanent standard DL/ID will be mailed
to you within 15 business days.
Fees for a REAL ID and a standard
DL/ID are the same.
Standard Card
Designation
For domestic travel, a U.S. passport
or a REAL ID card is acceptable.
For international travel, a U.S.
passport is necessary.
For additional information about passports:
npic@state.gov or 877-487-2778
For additional information:
833-503-4074
Federal Limits Apply
Make the choice that is right for you.
Application Process for
REAL ID Driver’s License or ID
STEP 1: Visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and
take your photo and the required exams.
STEP 2: Provide proof of identity. (Examples are: a U.S. birth
certificate, a U.S. passport, an employment authorization
document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport
with an approved I-94 form.) *Please note that name change
documents, such as a marriage certificate, will be required if
you present a birth certificate with a name different from your
current name.
STEP 3: Provide proof of full Social Security number (SSN).
(Examples are: an SSN card, a W-2 or a pay stub with full SSN.)
STEP 4: Provide two current residency documents with your
name. (Examples are: a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title
or bank statement.)
STEP 5: Provide proof of signature. (Examples are: a credit/
debit card, canceled check or current Illinois DL/ID.)
STEP 6: Receive a temporary, secure paper DL/ID at the facility.
*Please note that the TSA and federal agents will not accept the
paper document.
STEP 7: After review and verification of documents have been
conducted, your new permanent REAL ID card will be mailed to
you within 15 business days.
REAL ID
Gold Star
Designation
*For a complete list of acceptable documents for steps 2-5, please visit:
REALID.ilsos.gov
Has Your
NAME CHANGED?
Need a
REAL ID?
Be prepared, here is how
If the name on your birth certificate is DIFFERENT than
your current legal name, the federal government requires
additional documents to verify your identity.
Accepted documents to prove identity if your name has changed:
• Certified marriage certificate (certified by the County Clerk’s office;
a certificate issued by a church is not acceptable).
• Court-certified name change order.
(Copies of documents are not acceptable.)
PLEASE NOTE:
• Multiple name change documents will be required if your name has changed
multiple times.
• If you have a valid passport with your current legal name, additional
documents are NOT required.
For more information, call 833-503-4074.
REALID.ilsos.gov
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Table of Content
Chapter 1: Illinois Driver’s License ....................................................................................... 4
Age Restrictions — Drivers 16-21............................................................................................... 4
Exemptions ................................................................................................................................... 5
Changing the Name/Address on an Illinois Driver’s License/ID Card ......................................... 6
Document/ID Requirements for Driver’s License/ID Card ........................................................... 6
Driver’s License/ID Card Renewal ............................................................................................... 8
Penalties for Driver’s License/ID Card Fraud ............................................................................... 9
Medical Report............................................................................................................................. 9
Driving Records/Abstracts ......................................................................................................... 10
Non-Driving Programs Related to the Driver’s License ............................................................. 10
Driver’s License/State ID Card Fees .......................................................................................... 11
Expanded Online Services.......................................................................................................... 12
Chapter 2: Driver’s License Exams ...................................................................................... 13
Cheating and Bribery.................................................................................................................. 13
Vision Screening ........................................................................................................................ 13
Written Exam ............................................................................................................................. 14
Driving Exam .............................................................................................................................. 14
Special Services ......................................................................................................................... 15
Chapter 3: Drivers Under Age 21 .......................................................................................... 16
Obtaining an Instruction Permit ................................................................................................. 16
Applying for an Illinois Driver’s License..................................................................................... 16
Driver Education and the Cooperative Driver Testing Program ................................................. 17
First-Time Drivers — Age 18-20 ................................................................................................ 18
Graduated Driver Licensing Program ......................................................................................... 18
Parental Responsibility .............................................................................................................. 19
Related Laws.............................................................................................................................. 19
Chapter 4: Traffic Laws .......................................................................................................... 21
Proper Action When Stopped by Law Enforcement .................................................................. 21
Distracted Driving ...................................................................................................................... 22
Safety Belt Law .......................................................................................................................... 23
Child Passenger Protection Act ................................................................................................. 23
Speed Limits............................................................................................................................... 24
Construction Zones, Emergency Vehicles, School Zones and Funeral Processions .................. 25
Right of Way .............................................................................................................................. 26
Passing ....................................................................................................................................... 28
Lane Usage................................................................................................................................. 28
Signaling .................................................................................................................................... 29
Turning........................................................................................................................................ 30
Rotary and Roundabout ............................................................................................................. 32
Special Stops ............................................................................................................................. 32
Parking........................................................................................................................................ 34
Prohibited Stopping, Standing or Parking .................................................................................. 35
Additional Laws ......................................................................................................................... 36
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Chapter 5: Sharing the Road ................................................................................................. 40
Pedestrians................................................................................................................................. 40
Children ...................................................................................................................................... 41
Motorcycles................................................................................................................................ 41
Autocycles .................................................................................................................................. 42
Bicycles — Manual, Gas or Electric Powered .......................................................................... 42
Scooters and Mopeds ................................................................................................................ 44
Large Vehicles ............................................................................................................................ 45
Disabled Vehicles ....................................................................................................................... 45
Low-Speed Vehicles ................................................................................................................... 46
Slow-Moving Vehicles ............................................................................................................... 46
Snowmobiles.............................................................................................................................. 47
Horseback Riders ....................................................................................................................... 47
Chapter 6: Driving Under the Influence (DUI) .................................................................... 48
Blood-Alcohol Concentration (BAC)/Presence of Drugs ............................................................ 48
Medical and Recreational Cannabis (Marijuana) ...................................................................... 48
Other Drugs ................................................................................................................................ 49
DUI Laws .................................................................................................................................... 49
Related DUI Offenses................................................................................................................. 51
Drivers Under Age 21 ................................................................................................................. 52
Chapter 7: Traffic Violations/Crashes ................................................................................. 54
Appearing in Court ..................................................................................................................... 54
Crash Reports ............................................................................................................................. 54
Leaving the Scene of a Crash .................................................................................................... 55
Unattended Vehicles .................................................................................................................. 55
Safety Responsibility Law.......................................................................................................... 55
Financial Responsibility Law...................................................................................................... 56
Crash Prevention Courses .......................................................................................................... 56
Chapter 8: Driver’s License Revocation, Suspension, Denial and Cancellation ........ 58
Revocation.................................................................................................................................. 58
Suspension ................................................................................................................................. 59
Cancellation ............................................................................................................................... 60
Denial ......................................................................................................................................... 61
Special Driving Permits .............................................................................................................. 61
Chapter 9: Roadway Signs .................................................................................................... 64
Shapes of Signs ......................................................................................................................... 64
Colors of Signs ........................................................................................................................... 65
Regulatory Signs ........................................................................................................................ 66
Warning Signs ........................................................................................................................... 69
Construction and Maintenance Signs........................................................................................ 73
Portable Changeable Message Signs ........................................................................................ 74
Other Special Signs.................................................................................................................... 75
Guide Signs ................................................................................................................................ 75
Hazardous Materials Signs ........................................................................................................76
3
Chapter 10: Traffic Signals and Pavement Markings ....................................................... 78
Traffic Signals............................................................................................................................. 78
Pavement Markings ................................................................................................................... 80
Railroad Crossings ..................................................................................................................... 82
Chapter 11: Safe Driving Tips ............................................................................................... 84
Drive Defensively ....................................................................................................................... 84
Following Distances ................................................................................................................... 84
Vehicle Speed ............................................................................................................................ 85
Drowsy Driving ........................................................................................................................... 85
Weather Conditions ................................................................................................................... 85
Special Driving Situations and Hazards..................................................................................... 87
Equipment Failure ...................................................................................................................... 89
Aggressive Driving ..................................................................................................................... 90
Stranded Motorists’ Safety Protocols........................................................................................ 91
Chapter 12: Equipment For Safe Driving ............................................................................. 93
Required Equipment ................................................................................................................... 93
Restricted Equipment ................................................................................................................. 94
Chapter 13: Owning a Vehicle .............................................................................................. 96
Purchasing a Vehicle .................................................................................................................. 96
Vehicle Registration and Title .................................................................................................... 96
License Plate Requirements....................................................................................................... 97
Temporary Registration Permit .................................................................................................. 97
License Plate Renewal ............................................................................................................... 97
Special License Plates ............................................................................................................... 98
Reduced-fee License Plates ....................................................................................................... 98
Mandatory Insurance ................................................................................................................. 99
Emissions Testing....................................................................................................................... 99
License Plates and Parking Placards for Persons with Disabilities ......................................... 100
Answers to Study Questions.................................................................................................... 101
Index ......................................................................................................................................... 102
Driver’s License Classifications................................................................................................ 105
Acceptable Identification Documents ...................................................................................... 106
This edition of the Illinois Rules of the Road is as accurate as possible at the time of publication.
The booklet contains information you must know to pass the written test on traffic laws and signs to
obtain basic driving privileges. It includes information on obtaining a driver’s license, driver’s license
laws, traffic safety issues, and general information regarding Illinois traffic laws and ordinances.
The language of the Illinois Compiled Statutes is condensed and paraphrased and does not cover
every law or explain every possible situation that motorists may face while operating a motor
vehicle. The manual also provides highway safety information not in the law. It is intended as a tool
for drivers and should not be cited as a legal authority in court. Additional information and forms are
available at ilsos.gov.
4
NOTE TO THE READER: The application process for a REAL ID-compliant document
requires enhanced security measures that meet mandated federal guidelines,
even if you already have a standard-issued Illinois driver’s license or identification
(DL/ID) card. As a result, you must provide documentation confirming your identity,
Social Security number, residency, and signature.
Unless specifically stated, the information contained in this chapter concerning
the DL/ID application process applies to both REAL ID-compliant and standard-
issued documents.
For more information about Illinois’ REAL ID program, visit REALID.ilsos.gov or call
833-503-4074.
Chapter 1: Illinois Driver’s License
To drive legally in Illinois, you must have a valid Illinois driver’s license. A driver’s license
is classified by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the operator’s vehicle. For a list
of all driver classifications, see page 105.
A driver seeking a basic license to operate a car in Illinois is issued a Class D license.
Holders of a Class D license also may operate rental vehicles up to 26,000 pounds when
transporting their own personal property or that of an immediate family member for non-
business purposes within the state of Illinois. The driver is required and should be provided
information to successfully complete a safety course regarding the safe operation of that
vehicle from the rental company.
A driver must meet special requirements to operate a school bus, religious organization
bus, child care vehicle, or vehicle used in for-profit ride sharing or for senior citizen
transportation. For more information, visit a local Driver Motor Vehicles (DMV) facility or
call the Safe Ride Section of the Secretary of State’s office at 217-782-7674.
For procedures on obtaining a license to operate a motorcycle or commercial vehicle, refer
to the Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, the Rules of the Road for Non-CDL
Vehicles, or the Commercial Driver’s License Study Guide available at any DMV or
at ilsos.gov.
Effective July 1, 2024, Temporary Visitors Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) will no longer be
issued. If you were eligible for a TVDL, you can apply for a standard driver’s license.
Additional information is available at ilsos.gov.
Age Restrictions — Drivers 16-21
You must be at least age 16 to obtain an Illinois driver’s license. The following exceptions
apply:
5
• If you are age 16 or 17, you may receive your license if you successfully complete a
state-approved driver education course, complete 50 hours of practice driving, and pass
the three parts of the driver’s license exam. If a parent or guardian cannot accompany a
minor to the facility, an Affidavit/Consent for Minor to Drive must be signed by a legal
guardian or a responsible adult over age 21. For more information about obtaining a
driver’s license before age 18, see page 16.
• If you are a first-time Illinois driver’s license applicant, are age 18, 19, or 20, and have
never been licensed or completed an approved high school or commercial school driver
education program, you must successfully complete a six-hour Adult Driver Education
Course through a Secretary of State certified adult driver education provider before
obtaining a license. More information is available at ilsos.gov.
• A driver under age 18 is not allowed to drive any vehicle for-hire transporting property
(e.g., delivery persons) or any vehicle requiring a commercial driver’s license.
• A driver under age 21 is not allowed to drive any vehicle for-hire that is transporting
more than 10 passengers, a commuter van, a religious organization bus, a school bus, a
vehicle transporting senior citizens, or a child care vehicle.
Exemptions
You may drive in Illinois without a valid Illinois driver’s license if you meet one of the
following circumstances:
• If you have permanently moved to Illinois from another state or country and have a valid
non-Illinois driver’s license. You must obtain an Illinois license within 90 days or before
your driver’s license expires, whichever comes first.
• If you are visiting or driving through Illinois and have a valid driver’s license from your
home state or country.
• If you are an out-of-state student attending an Illinois college/university, you, your
spouse, and your children may drive with a valid license from your home state or country.
• If you are on active duty with the U.S. Armed Forces, you, your spouse, and your
dependent children living with you may drive with a valid license from your home state.
• If you are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces outside the United States but are a legal
resident of Illinois, you, your spouse, and your dependent children living with you may
drive during the first 120 days of your return if you previously obtained a deferral of your
driver’s license.
• If you are serving as a civilian employee for the U.S. Armed Forces or the U.S.
Department of Defense outside the United States but are a legal resident of Illinois,
you, your spouse, and your dependent children living with you may drive during the first
120 days of your return if you previously obtained a deferral of your driver’s license.
• If you are employed by the U.S. government or a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you
do not need a valid Illinois license if traveling on official business and driving a vehicle
owned by or leased to the government.
• If you are operating a road machine temporarily on the roadway or farm tractor between
the farm buildings and nearby farmland.
6
Changing the Name/Address on an
Illinois Driver’s License/ID Card
If you have legally changed your name, you must apply for a corrected driver’s license/
ID card. This must be done within 30 days of the name change. You must provide
documentation that links your new name to the name on your current driver’s license/ID
card and on file with the Secretary of State’s office. The name displayed on the driver’s
license/ID card will be your full given name and surname as recorded at birth, at marriage,
by the Social Security Administration, or as otherwise established through legal action.
You must notify the Secretary of State’s office of an address change within 10 days of any
move by:
• Visiting a DMV,
• Visiting ilsos.gov online services, or
• Writing to the Secretary of State, Driver Services Department, Address Change, 2701 S.
Dirksen Pkwy., Springfield, IL 62723.
You will not receive an updated DL/ID reflecting the address change unless you visit a
facility, present acceptable documents to prove residency, including a valid mailing
address (see page 106), and pay the appropriate fee.
Document/ID Requirements for
Driver’s License/ID Card
To receive an Illinois driver’s license/ID card, you must provide acceptable forms of
identification to prove your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, residency,
and signature. Please refer to the Acceptable Identification Documents chart on page 106
for a list of documents that may be used. Please note the following:
• Signature comparison is required in the verification process.
• The number of documents required depends on whether you are applying for a driver’s
license/ID card for the first time or requesting a duplicate or corrected driver’s license/
ID card.
• You must provide a valid mailing address at the time of application.
You will be required to have a photo taken, surrender all other Illinois driver’s licenses/
identification cards/instruction permits, pass the appropriate exams and pay the
appropriate fee.
Effective July 1, 2024, Temporary Visitors Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) will no longer be
issued. If you were eligible for a TVDL, you can now apply for a standard driver’s license.
Additional information is available at ilsos.gov.
First-time REAL ID-Compliant Driver’s License/ID Card Applicant
If you are applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license/ID card for the first time (even
if you already hold a standard-issued driver’s license/ID card), you must present the
documentation of the following:
7
• Proof of identity* (including U.S. citizenship or lawful status);
• Proof of date of birth;
• Proof of Social Security number;
• Proof of signature; and
• Two documents to prove Illinois residency.
*lf you bring identity documents with a name different from your current legal name
(such as a certified birth certificate), you must bring additional documentation indicating
the reason for the name change (such as a certified marriage certificate, copy of divorce
decree, adoption papers, etc.).
First-time Standard-Issued Illinois Driver’s License/ID Card Applicant
If you are applying for a standard-issued Illinois driver’s license/ID card for the first time,
you must present documentation of the following:
• Proof of date of birth;
• Proof of Social Security number;
• Proof of residency (one document); and
• Proof of signature.
Refer to the Acceptable Identification Documents Chart on page 106 for a list of documents
that may be used. One document may satisfy more than one group.
Those applying for a disabled ID card must also present a form titled Application for an
Illinois Person with a Disability Identification Card. This form must be properly completed
and signed by a medical professional.
Duplicate/Corrected Driver’s License/ID Card
An applicant applying for either a duplicate or corrected driver’s license/ID card is required
to present documentation of the following:
• Proof of written signature; and
• Proof of residency if the applicant is requesting an address change to appear on the
document.
An applicant may apply for a duplicate driver’s license/ID card online at ilsos.gov as long
as there are no changes to their address, name, or date of birth.
An applicant requesting a change in name, date of birth, Social Security number, or gender
must provide identification to link the change from the previous information to the new
information.
An applicant under age 60 whose license was stolen must present a police report that
states the license/ID was stolen to receive a duplicate DL/ID at no cost. Persons over age
60 do not need a police report for a duplicate driver’s license/ID card at no cost.
8
Driver’s License/ID Card Renewal
About 90 days before your license expires, you should receive a renewal notice from the
Secretary of State’s office with information on what documents must be provided and
what tests are necessary. You may renew your license up to one year before a two- or four-
year driver’s license expires. You may renew up to six months before a one-year driver’s
license expires.
You may not receive a renewal notice if you fail to notify the Secretary of State’s office of
a change of name or address. It is the driver’s responsibility to renew the license
before expiration, regardless of whether a renewal letter is received.
A driver’s license is valid for four years and expires on the driver’s birthday except in the
following cases:
• Drivers under age 21 — license expires three months after their 21st birthday.
• Drivers ages 81-86 — license valid for two years.
• Drivers ages 87 and older — license requires annual renewal.
Effective July 1, 2024, Temporary Visitors Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) will no longer be
issued. If you were eligible for a TVDL, you can now apply for a standard driver’s license.
Additional information is available at ilsos.gov.
Standard Renewal
To renew your driver’s license, you must:
• Visit a DMV and present your current license/ID.
• Visit ilsos.gov online services if you received a pin renewal notice.
• Take the appropriate exam(s), if applicable.
• Pay the appropriate fee and have a new photo taken.
If you cannot surrender your current driver’s license or ID card, you must present proof of
signature. If you need to change your address, you must present one residency document
if you hold a standard driver’s license or ID card and two residency documents if you hold
a REAL ID. If you do not have your current driver’s license or ID card or you need to make
changes, you must present documentation of the following:
• Proof of date of birth;
• Social Security number;
• Proof of residency if you are requesting an address change to appear on the document
(two documents if applying for REAL ID and one document if applying for standard
issued); and
• Proof of written signature.
If you are renewing a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card and are not a U.S.
citizen, you must present current documentation of lawful status.
9
Upon payment and successful completion of any required testing, the Secretary of State
will issue a temporary, secure paper driver’s license/ID card, which is valid for 90 days.
After a review and verification of documents, a permanent driver’s license or ID card will
be printed at a centralized location and mailed to you, usually within 15 business days,
to the address provided by you at the DMV. Driver’s license and/or ID cards will not be
delivered by the post office if there is a forwarding order or any type of hold-on mail
service for the address you provided.
If you do not receive the permanent driver’s license or identification card after 15 business
days of visiting a facility, you can check the status at ilsos.gov or call 217-782-7044.
Safe Driver Renewal
The Safe Driver Renewal Program enables certain drivers with a clean driving record to
renew their driver’s licenses from home and visit a DMV only once every eight years. An
eligible driver will receive a notice in the mail detailing how to complete the renewal
process online, by phone, or by mail. To be eligible for Safe Driver Renewal, a driver must:
• Be ages 22-74;
• Not hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or school bus driver permit;
• Have no traffic infractions, sanctions, crash reports, or medical report review require-
ments; and
• Have Social Security information verified through the Social Security Online Verification
System.
Note: REAL ID-compliant applicants who are not U.S. citizens are not eligible for Safe
Driver Renewal.
Penalties for Driver’s License/ID Card Fraud
Persons are subject to arrest, possible imprisonment of up to five years, and a 12-month
suspension or revocation of their driving privileges for the following offenses:
• Signing a driver’s license/ID card application that includes false information.
• Presenting false identification for the purposes of obtaining a driver’s license/ID card.
• Using a fictitious or unlawfully altered driver’s license/permit.
• Presenting another person’s driver’s license/ID card as their own.
• Allowing another person to knowingly use identification documents to apply for a
driver’s license/ID card using their name.
Medical Report
When applying for a driver’s license, you will be asked about any physical or mental
conditions that may potentially impair your safe operation of a motor vehicle or any
medications (prescribed or over-the-counter), drugs, or alcohol that may impair your driving
ability. In certain instances, you must provide a Medical Report completed by a licensed
physician verifying your medical ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. The report must
10
be presented to the DMV personnel within 90 days from the date the physician signs it.
The form is available at any DMV or at ilsos.gov.
If you develop a medical condition that is likely to cause a loss of consciousness or any loss
of ability to operate a vehicle safely, you must notify the Secretary of State’s office within
10 days of becoming aware of the condition. Failure to do so may lead to cancellation of
your driver’s license and driving privileges.
Driving Records/Abstracts
The Secretary of State keeps records of the traffic violations and crashes you accumulate
while licensed in Illinois. If you are convicted of a traffic violation while driving in another
state, the offense will be included on your record. If you are not a resident of this state
and are convicted of a traffic violation in Illinois where immediate action is required, a
record will be established for you in Illinois and the traffic violation also will be reported
to your home state.
You may purchase a copy of your driving record online at ilsos.gov or at select DMVs. To
locate a facility, visit ilsos.gov and click on Facility Finder. Driving records/abstracts may
also be obtained by submitting a written request to: Secretary of State, Abstract Unit,
2701 S. Dirksen Pkwy., Springfield, IL 62723. The request must include your full name, date
of birth, driver’s license number, and the appropriate fee. The person requesting the driving
record must provide proper identification.
Non-Driving Programs Related to the Driver’s License
The Secretary of State’s office is required to ask certain non-driving-related questions
during the driver’s license/ID card application process. Among these are:
• Illinois Organ/Tissue Donor Registry — Applicants age 16 and older will be asked
to join the registry. More information on the Organ/Tissue Donor Program is available
by visiting www.LifeGoesOn.com or calling 800-210-2106.
• Veteran Designation — A “VETERAN” designation may be placed on the face of
an Illinois driver’s license/ID card at the request of the card applicant. At the time of
application, the applicant must provide proof of an honorable discharge from any branch
of the U.S. military or retirement from the U.S. military or show service as a reservist
or member of the National Guard. More information is available by visiting ilsos.gov or
calling the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs at 800-437-9824.
• Voter Registration — A person applying for a standard driver’s license/ID card will be
informed if they are currently registered to vote and, if so, at what address. If they are
not registered, they will be asked if they wish to register to vote or to update their voter
registration address. The application will be electronically transmitted to the Illinois
State Board of Elections. A person applying for a Real ID-compliant driver’s license/ID
card and who has provided proof of U.S. citizenship will be advised that their driver’s
license/ID card application will also serve as an application to register to vote, and the
information will be electronically transmitted to the Illinois State Board of Elections,
unless they opt out of voter registration. The Board of Elections will forward voter
11
registration applications to the appropriate local election authority. Non-U.S. citizens
applying for a driver’s license are not eligible to register to vote.
• Gold Star Family Designation — A “GOLD STAR FAMILY” designation may be placed
on the back of an Illinois driver’s license/ID card at the request of the applicant. At
the time of application, the applicant must provide a Gold Star Affirmation statement
attesting that they are a Gold Star family member as defined 625 ILCS 5/3-664, including
the service member’s name and relationship to the applicant.
• Selective Service — Federal law requires all males ages 18-25 to register with the
Selective Service System. The signature on the driver’s license/ID card application of any
qualifying male certifies that he has registered or, if not already registered, authorizes
the Secretary of State’s office to submit his information to the Selective Service System
for registration.
• Emergency Contact Database — Illinois driver’s license/ID card holders may register
with the Illinois Emergency Contact Database. The program allows a person to provide
emergency contact information for law enforcement or emergency responders in the
event of a crash or emergency situation. Individuals registering may also provide
information concerning disabilities or special medical needs. More information is
available at ilsos.gov.
Driver’s License/State ID Card Fees*
Driver’s License/Permit
Instruction Permit ..............................................................................................................$20
Driver’s License, ages 18-20 ..............................................................................................$5
Driver’s License, ages 21-68 ............................................................................................$30
Driver’s License, ages 69-80 ..............................................................................................$5
Driver’s License, ages 81-86 ..............................................................................................$2
Driver’s License, ages 87 and older ................................................................................Free
New Classification added; not at time of renewal (except CDL) ......................................$5
School Bus Permit ...............................................................................................................$4
Note: In addition to the regular driver’s license fee, an applicant will pay an additional $5
fee to add/renew an M or L motorcycle classification.
State ID Card
State ID Card, under age 18 ...............................................................................................$5
State ID Card, ages 18-64 .................................................................................................$20
State ID Card, ages 65 and older; Persons with Disabilities .........................................Free
Duplicate/Corrected Driver’s License/Permit
Duplicate/Corrected Driver’s License/Permit ....................................................................$5
Duplicate/Corrected Driver’s License/Permit ages 81-86 .................................................$2
Duplicate/Corrected Driver’s License/Permit ages 87 and older ...................................Free
Duplicate/Corrected Temporary (90-day) Driver’s License ................................................$5
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*The cost for REAL ID-compliant DL/ID documents and standard issued documents is the same.
**Effective July 1, 2024, Temporary Visitor Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) will no longer be issued. If you
were eligible for a TVDL, you can now apply for a standard driver’s license. Additional information
is available at ilsos.gov.
Duplicate/Corrected Temporary Visitor Driver’s License ...................................................$5
Duplicate Driver’s License/Permit, under age 60 (license was stolen, full police report
e required) .....................................................................................................................Free
Duplicate Driver’s License/Permit, ages 60 and older (license was lost/stolen) ...........Free
Duplicate/Corrected State ID Card
Duplicate Temporary (90-day) State ID Card .....................................................................$5
Duplicate State ID Card, under age 18 ...............................................................................$5
Duplicate State ID Card, ages 18-64 ...............................................................................$20
Duplicate State ID Card (ID card was stolen, full police report required ........................Free
Duplicate State ID Card, ages 60 and older (ID card was lost/stolen) ..........................Free
Corrected Temporary (90-day) State ID Card .....................................................................$5
Corrected State ID Card, under age 18 ...............................................................................$5
Corrected State ID Card, ages 18-64 ...............................................................................$10
Corrected State ID Card, ages 65 and older ...................................................................Free
Active Members of the Armed Services (also spouses/children residing at home)
Duplicate License/Permit/State ID Card .........................................................................Free
Fees are subject to legislative change. For up-to-date fee information, visit ilsos.gov. CDL
fees are available in the Commercial Driver’s License Study Guide.
Effective July 1, 2024, Temporary Visitors Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) will no longer be
issued. If you were eligible for a TVDL, you can apply for a standard driver’s license.
Additional information is available at ilsos.gov.
Expanded Online Services
The Secretary of State has expanded online services for the public by allowing access to
information by visiting ilsos.gov. Some of these services include:
• Renewing a valid driver’s license for qualifying drivers;
• Renewing a valid ID card for those ages 22-64 (seniors 65 and older have free, non-
expiring IDs);
• Obtaining a driver record abstract;
• Renewing a license plate sticker;
• Filing Business Services documents, such as incorporations and annual reports; and
• Customers with issues involving administrative hearings may contact adminhearings@
ilsos.gov.
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Chapter 2: Driver’s License Exams
When you apply for your for a driver’s license, you may be required to complete a vision
screening, as well as written and driving exams. A vision screening and a written test are
required for the issuance or renewal of all permits.
You are allowed three attempts to pass each exam within one year from the date you paid
your application fee.
If you have a traffic crash or other moving violation on your driving record, you may be
required to take the written and/or driving exams.
Cheating and Bribery
During the written exam, applicants will be warned if they are observed doing something
that could be considered suspicious. This could be, but is not limited to, an open book
within the applicant’s field of vision, looking around, or checking a cellphone or other
wireless device while taking the exam. Any applicant found cheating will fail the exam and
be prohibited from retaking it for 30 days. Taking any part of the driver’s license exam
for another person is a criminal offense punishable by a fine and a mandatory
minimum seven days in jail.
The Secretary of State’s office may deny issuing of a driver’s license and/or instruction
permit to any person who attempts to influence any act related to the issuance of the
document. This includes attempting to bribe or influence an employee of the Secretary of
State’s office, the owner of a commercial driver school, or any individual authorized to give
driving instructions or administer any part of a driver’s license examination.
Vision Screening
All driver’s license applicants must have a vision screening or submit a Vision Specialist
Report completed by a licensed optometrist, ophthalmologist, or physician dated within
six months of a facility visit. This form is available at any DMV or at ilsos.gov. Vision
requirements include:
• Minimum visual acuity of 20/40 with or without corrective lenses. A driver with acuity
between 20/41 and 20/70 is limited to daylight driving only.
• At least 140 degree peripheral vision (the ability to see to the side) with or without
corrective lenses.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, a restriction will be noted on your license, requiring
you to wear glasses or contact lenses when operating a vehicle. If you wear telescopic
lenses, you must meet special requirements and undergo additional vision testing to
receive a license.
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Written Exam
Every driver must take a written exam every eight years, except for a driver having no
traffic convictions. The basic written exam requires you to:
• Identify traffic signs by shape, color, or symbol.
• Identify signals and pavement markings.
• Answer multiple-choice and true-or-false questions about traffic laws, safety rules,
crash prevention, and vehicle equipment.
The exam requirements for motorcycles, trucks, and buses vary. You should consult the
appropriate operator’s manual for these types of vehicles.
Driving Exam
New drivers are required to take a driving exam. Drivers ages 79 and older and any driver
turning 79 or older who are renewing their driver’s license must take a driving exam.
If the applicant is age 21 or older and driving for the first time, enrollment in driving school
for adults is suggested before applying for a driver’s license.
To take a driving exam, the vehicle used must:
• Be properly licensed and have the required equipment listed on page 93.
• Be in the same weight class as sought on their driver’s license application.
• Be properly insured. Proof of insurance must be provided at the time of the exam.
• Display valid front and rear Illinois license plates and a valid registration sticker. If the
vehicle is registered outside of Illinois, it must meet the registration requirements of
the respective state.
• Be driven to the facility by a driver with a valid driver’s license/permit.
Only the examiner is allowed to be with you during the driving exam. Children or pets are
not allowed in the vehicle during the exam and cannot be left unattended in the facility
while the driving exam is underway. If you bring children or pets, you must bring someone
to care of for them.
During the driving exam, you and the examiner must wear safety belts, as required by law.
You will automatically fail the exam if you commit any traffic violation or any dangerous
action while taking the exam.
You are graded on your ability to perform several driving tasks and maneuvers, including
the following:
• Checking the vehicle controls, including the parking brake and mirrors. You must make
all adjustments to seats, safety belts, mirrors, and other equipment before the vehicle
is put into motion.
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• Backing the vehicle approximately 50 feet at a slow speed, straight and smoothly.
When performing this manuever, turn your head to the right and watch to the rear when
performing this maneuver.
• Performing a turnabout using an alley on the left side of the street. Turn your left signal
on before turning into the alley, back the car out of the alley, and stay on your side of
the street.
• Parking uphill on the side of the road. (See page 35.)
• Starting uphill from a parked position. (See page 35.)
• Parking downhill on the side of the road. (See page 35.)
• Starting downhill from a parked position. (See page 35.)
• Controlling your vehicle by obeying all traffic signs, controls devices, rights of way, lane
markings and properly using turn signals.
Special Services
The Secretary of State’s office provides the following special services for senior citizens,
persons with disabilities, and veterans:
• Free Rules of the Road Review Courses.
• License plates and parking placards for persons with disabilities.
• Reduced-fee license plate renewal fees for seniors age 65 and older and persons with
disabilities who meet income criteria through the Benefit Access Program (formerly
known as the Circuit Breaker Program). For more information, contact the Illinois
Department on Aging.
• Interpreter service for applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing when obtaining or
renewing a driver’s license. Applicants needing interpreter service should request in
advance of their visit to the facility by calling 312-814-5683 or 888-261-5238 (TTY,
NexTalk).
• Oral examinations (for the written test) can be requested in person at any Secretary of
State driver’s license facility, Monday through Thursday. The services are provided for
applicants who may have a language barrier or any reading or learning disability.
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Chapter 3: Drivers Under Age 21
In Illinois, most people under age 18 learn to drive in high school or at a commercial
driver training school licensed by the Secretary of State’s office. Approved driver education
courses include at least 30 hours of classroom study and six hours of behind-the-wheel
training in a regular passenger vehicle.
Obtaining an Instruction Permit
If you are age 15-17, you may receive an instruction permit with acceptable proof from the
authorized driver education provider. The document must state that you are enrolled in an
approved driver education course and/or will start attending an approved driver education
course within the next 30 days. The instruction permit is valid for 24 months and must be
held for at least nine consecutive months before obtaining a driver’s license if you are age
15-17. If you are age 17 and 3 months or older, you may apply for an instruction permit
without taking a driver education course. When applying for an instruction permit, you
must pass the vision and written exams for the license classification you are seeking. The
test results are valid until the expiration of the permit.
Your instruction permit allows you to drive with an adult instructor during the behind-
the-wheel portion of a driver education course. It also allows you to drive with a parent,
legal guardian, or responsible adult who is age 21 or older, has a valid license, and has at
least one year of driving experience. This individual must sit in the front passenger seat
adjacent to you. After you have successfully completed the driver education course, you
may continue practice driving with an instruction permit under the direct supervision of a
responsible adult, as outlined above.
Illinois law requires drivers under age 18 to have at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel
supervised driving, including 10 hours of nighttime supervised driving, in addition to the
driver education training, before being eligible to obtain a driver’s license at age 16. A
driving log to track the supervised practice hours is available at ilsos.gov or in the Parent-
Teen Driving Guide.
Applying for an Illinois Driver’s License
Driver’s licenses for persons under age 21 are printed vertically with distinct features. To
apply for a driver’s license before age 18, you must bring the following documents to the
DMV:
• Instruction permit;
• Acceptable forms of identification (see page 105);
• Affidavit/Consent For Minor To Drive (if applicable);
• Cooperative Driver Testing Certificate (if applicable); and
• 50-hour driving log with proper signature.
If you are applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, you must bring all the required
identity documents. See page 6 for information on applying for a REAL ID for the first time.
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The Secretary of State’s office must have received notification of your successful completion
of driver education, and the notation must appear on your driving record before a driver’s
license is issued. Students whose birthdays fall on certain spot check dates must pass
a driving exam administered at a DMV even though they may have taken and passed a
road test conducted by their driver education instructor. If you receive your driver’s license
before the expiration of the instruction permit, you will not be required to pay an additional
fee when applying for your driver’s license.
Driver Education and the
Cooperative Driver Testing Program
High school students who successfully complete an accredited driver education course
of classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction with a combined grade of A or B may be
exempt from taking a Secretary of State-administered driving exam when applying for a
driver’s license. School districts are encouraged to participate in this voluntary program by
contacting the Secretary of State’s office. More information on the requirements for this
program is available at ilsos.gov.
Upon successful completion of the classroom and behind-the-wheel portions of driver
education through a local high school, the Secretary of State’s office will receive notification
and add a notation to the individual’s driver’s license record. After successful completion
of a driving exam, the prospective driver may be issued a Cooperative Driver Testing
Certificate, which must be signed by the driver education instructor and the student’s
parent/legal guardian. The certificate expires on the same day as the student’s instruction
permit and will not be extended. It must be presented at the DMV when applying for the
driver’s license.
Students under age 18 who drop out of high school cannot have the notation indicating
completion placed on their driver’s license record unless:
• The instructor has written verification of enrollment in a GED or alternative program;
• The applicant has a GED;
• Before dropping out, they received passing grades in at least eight courses in the
previous two semesters; or
• They have written consent from their parents or legal guardians and the regional
superintendent.
The local superintendent or chief school administrator may waive conditions deemed in
the best interest of the student or dropout. Successful completion of driver education may
be verified by contacting the Illinois State Board of Education at 217-782-4322.
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First-Time Drivers — Age 18-20
If you are age 18, 19, or 20 and have not previously been licensed or completed an approved
driver education program, you must complete a six-hour Adult Driver Education Course. The
Adult Driver Education Course can only be taught by providers certified by the Secretary of
State’s office. Courses may be taught in a classroom setting or online, depending on the
certification of a provider. Completion of an Adult Driver Education Course from a provider
not certified by the Secretary of State’s office will not be accepted. More information on the
Adult Driver Education Course is available at ilsos.gov.
Graduated Driver Licensing Program
Illinois’ Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program requires drivers ages 15-20 to work their
way toward full-driving privileges. There are three progressive stages, usually beginning at
age 15, when most young drivers obtain their learner’s permit. Young drivers must earn the
right to move from one phase to the next based on their driving behavior. Each phase of the
GDL process sets forth specific guidelines for a teen driver.
Permit Phase — Drivers Age 15
• Nighttime driving restrictions — Sun.-Thurs., 10 p.m.-6 a.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 p.m.-6 a.m.
(local curfews may differ).
• Permit must be held for a minimum of nine months.
• Must practice driving a minimum of 50 hours, including 10 hours at night, supervised by
a parent or adult age 21 or older with a valid driver’s license.
• Must not acquire any driving infractions, underage alcohol convictions, or court
supervisions during the nine-month permit phase.
• Number of passengers is limited to one in the front seat and the number of safety belts
in the back seat.
• Any wireless/cellphone use while driving, including a hands-free device, is prohibited for
a driver under age 19, except in the case of an emergency to contact a law enforcement
agency, health care provider, or emergency services agency.
• Permit is valid for up to two years.
Initial Licensing Phase — Drivers Ages 16-17
• Nighttime driving restrictions — Sun.-Thurs., 10 p.m.-6 a.m.; Fri.-Sat., 11 p.m.-6 a.m.
(local curfews may differ).
• Must maintain a conviction-free driving record for six months before turning 18. A traffic
conviction during the Initial Licensing Phase may extend restrictions beyond age 18.
• For the first 12 months of licensing, or until the driver turns 18, whichever occurs first,
the number of passengers is limited to one person under age 20, unless the passenger(s)
is a sibling, stepsibling, child, or stepchild of the driver. After this period, the number of
passengers is limited to one in the front seat and the number of safety belts in the back
seat.
• Any wireless/cellphone use while driving, including a hands-free device, is prohibited for
a driver under age 19, except in the case of an emergency to contact a law enforcement
agency, health care provider, or emergency services agency.
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Full Licensing Phase — Drivers Ages 18-20
• No age-related restrictions apply except in cases where a driver fails to move from the
Initial Licensing Phase to the Full Licensing Phase.
• Any wireless/cellphone use while driving, including a hands-free device, is prohibited for
a driver under age 19, except in the case of an emergency to contact a law enforcement
agency, health care provider or emergency services agency.
For more information about the GDL program, please refer to the Illinois Graduated
Driver Licensing Program brochure at ilsos.gov. Brochures are available at any local
Driver Services facility, high school driver education program or commercial driving school
program.
Parental Responsibility
• Parental Consent—A driver age 16-17 must have the written consent of a parent/
legal guardian to obtain a driver’s license. The parent/legal guardian who gave initial
consent may cancel the minor’s license at any time, for any reason, until the driver turns
18 by contacting the Secretary of State’s office. Driving privileges will not be reinstated
until the parent/legal guardian who withdrew consent once again, provides consent
or until the driver turns 18, whichever occurs first. The teen driver must reapply for a
driver’s license, take all applicable exams and pay the appropriate fees.
• Parental Access to Teen’s Driving Record — The parent/legal guardian of a
person under age 18 who holds an instruction permit or graduated driver’s license may
access their minor’s driving record at no cost by visiting ilsos.gov and using a personal
identification number (PIN) provided by the Secretary of State’s office.
• Instruction Permit Completion Check — Students who are under age 21 and who
hold a valid instruction permit, as well as their parent/legal guardian, may go to the
Secretary of State’s website using the Instruction Permit number to determine if their
high school driver’s education completion/certification has been added to their driving
record.
• Parent-Teen Driving Guide — A Parent-Teen Driving Guide is available to assist
parents in teaching their teen drivers the skills they need to know before starting to
drive on their own. The guide is available at ilsos.gov.
• Parent-Teen Driving Contract — The Secretary of State’s office provides a voluntary
Parent-Teen Driving Contract that establishes parameters and boundaries between
parents and teenagers to enable a young driver to acquire safe driving habits and skills.
The contract is available in the Parent-Teen Driving Guide or at ilsos.gov.
Related Laws
• Court Supervision for Moving Violations — A driver under age 21 is limited to one
court supervision for serious traffic offenses. To obtain court supervision for a traffic
violation, a driver must attend traffic safety school. If they are under age 18, they must
appear in court with a parent/legal guardian. If receiving court supervision for certain
alcohol-related violations, a driver under age 18 will be denied a full graduated driver’s
license for nine months.
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• Loss of Driving Privileges for Moving Violations — A driver under age 21 who
is convicted of two or more moving violations within a 24-month period will have their
driver’s license suspended for a minimum of 30 days. The length of the suspension
varies according to the seriousness of the traffic offenses. A driver may be required
to complete a driver remedial education course as part of reinstatement of driving
privileges. This information will be indicated on the suspension notice. A suspended
driver may be, but is not always, eligible for a Restricted Driving Permit during the
suspension period.
• Driver’s License Suspension for Alcohol Consumption — A person under age 21
who receives court supervision for possession, consumption, purchase, or receipt of
alcohol will receive a three-month driver’s license suspension if the offense occurred
while the person was an occupant of a motor vehicle. A conviction will result in a
minimum six-month suspension of driving privileges if the offense occurred while the
person was an occupant of a motor vehicle.
• Driver’s License Suspension for Nighttime Driving Restriction Violation —
Persons under age 18 who violate the nighttime driving restriction during the Permit
Phase or the Initial Licensing Phase listed on page 18 may have their driving privileges
suspended. See Chapter 6, page 52, for information regarding a driver under 21.
• Crash Involving Bodily Harm or Death — Persons under age 18 who are charged
with an offense due to a crash where a passenger was seriously injured or killed may
be denied issuance/renewal of their driver’s license. Alcohol need not play a factor in
the crash.
• Non-Adjudicated Traffic Citation — Persons under age 18 who have been issued a
traffic citation that has not been fully adjudicated by the courts may be denied issuance
of their driver’s license.
— Chapter 3 Study Questions —
1. During the Initial Licensing Phase, a teen driver is allowed only two passengers
under age 20 in the vehicle during the first 12 months of licensing.
True False
2. To obtain court supervision for a traffic violation, a minor must appear in court with a
parent/legal guardian and attend a traffic safety school.
True False
3. A parent or legal guardian may request that the driver’s license of a minor be
canceled at any time before age 18.
True False
4. Illinois drivers under age 16 are required to have at least 50 hours of behind-the-
wheel supervised driving before obtaining their driver’s license.
True False
5. Drivers under age 20 are prohibited from using their cellphone while driving except in
the case of an emergency.
True False
6. Drivers under age 18 must hold their instruction permit for nine consecutive months
before obtaining their driver’s license.
True False
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Chapter 4: Traffic Laws
Traffic laws protect all who share Illinois’ streets and highways. It is important to obey the
orders of police officers, firefighters, highway authority officials, or uniformed adult school
crossing guards directing traffic or performing their official duties.
Proper Action When Stopped by Law Enforcement
• Slow down, activate turn signal, and safely pull over onto the right-hand shoulder of
the roadway. If there is no shoulder or it is too narrow to pull over, find the next safest
location and pull over.
• Do not slam on the brakes or stop in the traffic lane. Do not stop your vehicle on bridges,
curves, next to guardrails, concrete walls, medians, or any place where it would be
difficult for other vehicles to pass. A vehicle should not be stopped too close to the solid
white line, as it may get struck by oncoming traffic.
• Stay in the vehicle with both hands clearly in sight on the steering wheel. Keep your
hands on the steering wheel until the police officer instructs you otherwise or the traffic
stop is complete.
• Be prepared for the officer to approach from either the driver or passenger side of your
vehicle.
• Do not exit your vehicle unless asked to do so. Getting out of the vehicle can be perceived
as aggressive behavior and a threat to the police officer’s safety.
• Comply with the officer’s request to see a driver’s license and proof of insurance. If these
items are in the glove box or under the seat or if the proof of insurance is stored for
display on a cellphone, inform the police officer of that fact and then follow the officer’s
directions before retrieving the information. Vehicle operators must have a valid driver’s
license, registration, and insurance to operate a vehicle.
• If you cannot identify an unmarked police vehicle and/or the driver as law enforcement,
drive slowly and carefully below the speed limit and either (1) pull over at a well-lit,
populated location, (2) drive carefully to the nearest police station and attempt to attract
the attention of a uniformed officer or (3) call 911. Activate your vehicle’s hazard lights
as a helpful way to communicate intentions with the police officer.
• If you are being stopped at night, it is acceptable to turn on your vehicle’s interior light.
Be aware that you may have committed a minor traffic violation without realizing it. There
may also be a problem with your vehicle that you are unaware of or the vehicle may be
similar to one used in a serious crime. Many officers will not provide specific reasons for
the stop until they have obtained your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance
card.
If the traffic stop results in a ticket or arrest, you:
• Should not debate the reason for the stop or argue with the police officer.
• Should not refuse to sign a ticket if issued. A traffic ticket requires the driver’s signature.
Signing a ticket is not an admission of the driver’s guilt — only an acknowledgment of
receiving the ticket.
• Should not be uncooperative with law enforcement at the scene. If you are suspected of
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drunk driving, refusal to submit to breath, urine, blood, or performance tests can result
in the loss of driving privileges.
• Should not argue about the ticket at the time of issuance. If you believe an offense was
not committed or the ticket was issued unfairly, you can present the case in traffic court.
• Should not resist arrest if taken into custody by the police.
You are to be treated with dignity and respect by law enforcement officers. If you believe
an officer has acted inappropriately during a traffic stop or other encounter, you should
report the conduct to the officer’s superiors as soon as possible. Officers are required to
provide their names and badge numbers upon request. Written complaints can be filed
with the agency’s internal affairs division or civilian complaint board.
Regardless of what action is taken, police officers are legally required to document all
traffic stops, which includes obtaining the driver’s name and address for data collection
purposes.
Distracted Driving
Illinois law prohibits the use of handheld cellphones, texting, or using other electronic
communications while operating a motor vehicle. Hands-free devices or Bluetooth
technology is allowed for persons age 19 and older.
Illinois law prohibits the use of headsets while driving. Headsets are defined as any device,
other than a hearing aid, that allows a person to hear or receive electronic communications.
Using a single-sided headset or earpiece with a wireless/cellphone device is permitted
while driving. Motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, and moped operators may use intercom
helmets that permit a driver and/or passengers to speak to one another.
Using hands-free technology such as a headset or voice-activated controls is considered a
distraction while driving and can be dangerous. If you must make a phone call, even with
hands-free technology, it is recommended that you pull off to the side of the road before
making the call.
Using a cellphone while holding the device and using the speaker phone is not
considered hands-free and is a violation of Illinois law. Watching or streaming a
live video, participating in any video conferencing application, including, but not
limited to, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Webex, or accessing any social media site,
including, but not limited to, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, or X on a cellphone
is also a violation of Illinois law.
The only time you can use a cellphone that is not hands-free is:
• To report an emergency.
• While parked on the shoulder of a roadway.
• While stopped due to normal traffic being obstructed and the vehicle is in neutral or
park.
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If you are in a crash with a motor vehicle, bicyclist, pedestrian, or any road user
caused by distracted driving, you may face criminal penalties and incarceration.
Safety Belt Law
Illinois law requires all drivers and passengers (front and back seat) age 8 and older to
wear safety belts even if the vehicle is equipped with air bags. Passengers under age 8
must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system as covered by the Child Passenger
Protection Act.
If a passenger has a disability or medical condition that makes them unable to secure their
own safety belt, the driver is responsible for securing and adjusting the safety belt for that
passenger.
It is the responsibility of the driver to ensure ALL passengers obey the safety belt law and
the Child Passenger Protection Act.
Safety Belt Fitting
The lap belt should be worn across the hip bones and should never be positioned across
the stomach or soft part of the abdomen. The shoulder strap should be as snug as possible
but still allow the driver to reach important controls. Adjust the shoulder strap to be
comfortable and cross the body at or near the neck or face. The shoulder strap of the seat
belt should never be placed behind the back or under the arm.
Air Bag Safety
Air bags are designed to provide supplemental protection in combination with safety belts.
Air bags are lifesaving devices, but special precautions should be taken when driving in
air bag-equipped vehicles.
A distance of 10-12 inches between the driver and the air bag is desirable, especially for
short, elderly, or pregnant drivers. Passengers should position their seats as far back as
possible, tilting the seat back slightly if necessary.
Children riding in the front seat can be seriously injured or killed when an air bag deploys
in a crash. It is recommended that children ages 12 and younger be properly secured in
the back seat. If children under age 8 must ride in the front passenger seat with an active
air bag, they should be in a properly installed, appropriate child safety seat with the seat
as far back as possible. Rear-facing child safety seats should never be installed in front
of an active air bag. Some vehicles, such as pick-up trucks, have the option to turn off the
passenger side front air bag.
Child Passenger Protection Act
The Child Passenger Protection Act requires all children under age 8 to be properly
secured in an appropriate child safety restraint system. This includes booster seats, which
must only be used with a lap/shoulder safety belt. If the back seat of the vehicle is not
equipped with lap/shoulder type safety belts, a child weighing more than 40 pounds may
be transported in the back seat without a booster seat, secured with a lap belt only.
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Effective Jan. 1, 2019, Illinois law requires children to be properly secured in a rear-facing
child restraint system until age 2 unless they weigh more than 40 pounds or are more than
40 inches tall.
For more information on child safety seat recalls or a safety seat inspected for proper
installation, visit www.safercar.gov.
Speed Limits
Speeding is one of the leading contributors to vehicle crashes, deaths, and serious injuries
on roadways. You may drive at the maximum allowable speed only under safe conditions.
For safety purposes, a minimum speed limit may be posted along certain roadways. When
minimum limits are not posted, you should not drive so slowly as to create interference
with the normal movement of traffic. The following speed limits apply, unless otherwise
posted:
• Interstates and tollways — 70 mph.
• Highways with four lanes — 65 mph.
• Other highways and rural areas — 55 mph.
• City/town areas — 30 mph.
• Alleys — 15 mph.
• School zones — 20 mph (on school days between 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. when children
are present and signs are posted).
Local municipalities have the discretion to post speed limits different from those listed.
You must slow down when approaching and crossing an intersection, going around a
curve, approaching the top of a hill, or traveling on a narrow and winding roadway. You
must be aware that there may always be dangers present due to pedestrians, bicyclists,
traffic, weather, mechanical problems, or road conditions.
25
Construction Zones, Emergency Vehicles, Maintenance
Vehicles, School Zones and Funeral Processions
Construction Zones
When approaching or entering a highway construction or maintenance area (also known as
work zones), Illinois law requires motorists to slow down, discontinue wireless/cellphone
use (unless using a hands-free device that may include the use of a single-sided headset),
yield to any authorized vehicles or workers in the area, change to a lane away from the
workers when possible, and proceed with caution.
Motorists must obey the posted construction zone speed limit 24 hours a day, seven days
a week, regardless of the presence of workers. Standard speed limits may be reduced
due to the presence of workers or because normal driving conditions do not exist in a
construction zone. Reduce the speed of the vehicle to a speed reasonable and proper
with regard to traffic conditions. Maintain a reduced speed when leaving the work zone
until safely past any workers or authorized vehicles. There may be narrow lanes, drop-offs
between lanes or at the edge of the pavement, lane closures, construction equipment,
or obstructions near open lanes of traffic. The speed limit may be further reduced when
workers are present.
Emergency/Maintenance Vehicles
When approaching a stationary (non-moving) emergency/maintenance vehicle using
visual signals– by displaying blue, red, amber, white, or green oscillating, rotating or
flashing lights– or an emergency scene where those lights are in use, Illinois law requires
motorists to yield, change to a lane away from the emergency workers when possible,
and proceed with caution. Reduce the speed of the vehicle to a speed reasonable and
proper with regard to traffic conditions. Maintain a reduced speed until safely past
any stationary emergency vehicles. “Emergency scene” is defined as a location where
a stationary authorized vehicle is present and has activated its oscillating, rotating, or
flashing lights. If a lane change is not possible, reduce speed and proceed with caution.
Illinois law prohibits photography and the use of wireless/cellphones within 500 feet of an
emergency scene, except in certain circumstances.
When being approached by an emergency vehicle using audible and visual signals (lights
and/or sirens), Illinois law requires motorists to immediately pull to the right side of the
road and allow the emergency vehicle to pass. In some cases, a complete stop may be
necessary to allow the emergency vehicle to pass. If stopped at an intersection with two-
way traffic, remain stopped until the emergency vehicle passes through the intersection.
A driver is prohibited from driving over fire hoses unless permitted by a fire official in
command of the scene.
School Zones
When approaching a marked school zone between 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., on days when
school is in operation, and children are present, a driver must discontinue wireless/
cellphone use (unless using a hands-free device that may include the use of a single-sided
26
headset), reduce speed to 20 mph, and stop and yield the right of way to any children or
adults in the crosswalk area.
Funeral Processions
Motorists encountering a funeral procession must yield the right of way to all vehicles in
the procession. Motorists in a funeral procession should have their headlights and hazard
lights turned on. Motorists should NOT drive between vehicles in an organized funeral
procession except when directed by a law enforcement officer. Vehicles are prohibited
from joining a funeral procession to secure the right of way or attempt to pass any vehicle
in an organized funeral procession, except where a passing lane has been specifically
provided. Local municipalities may impound a vehicle that interferes with a funeral
procession due to reckless driving.
Right of Way
A driver must yield the right of way to other drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians:
• When making a right turn on a red light after a complete stop.
• After coming to a complete stop at an intersection with a stop sign or flashing red
signal. If there is no stop line, stop before the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk or stop
line, stop at a place where all approaching traffic can be seen.
• When making a left turn at a red light after a stop from a one-way street to another one-
way street with traffic moving to the left. (See Figure A on page 27.)
• When more than one driver reaches a four-way stop intersection. The first driver to stop
should be the first to go. When two vehicles on different roadways arrive at a four-way
stop intersection at the same time, the vehicle on the left should yield to the vehicle on
the right. (See Figure B on page 27.)
• When entering an intersection with a flashing yellow arrow.
• When two vehicles on different roadways reach an uncontrolled intersection at the
same time. The vehicle on the left should yield to the vehicle on the right.
• When making a left-hand turn into oncoming traffic. If you enter an intersection while
the light is green, you may finish the turn even though the light turns red.
• When approaching a MERGE sign with through traffic. You must increase or decrease
speed to avoid a crash.
• When approaching a YIELD sign. You should slow down or stop to avoid a crash.
• Even after the light turns green when there are vehicles in the intersection.
• When emerging from an alley, building, private road, or driveway after coming to a
complete stop. (See Figure C on page 27.)
• To cross traffic when on the terminating highway of a “T” intersection with no traffic
control signs or signals. (See Figure D on page 27.)
• When approaching emergency vehicles using audible and visual signals.
A driver may not:
• Enter an intersection or drive within a marked crosswalk unless there is enough space
to allow passage of other vehicles and/or pedestrians.
• Drive onto a railroad crossing.
27
Pedestrian Right of Way
A driver must come to a complete stop (and yield):
• When a pedestrian is in a marked crosswalk.
• On school days, when children are in close proximity to a school zone crosswalk.
“A” yields to “B” before turning
from one-way street onto one-
way street moving left.
“A” and “B” yield to “C”
because “C” arrived at
intersection first.
“A” yields to “B” because
“B” is on the right.
“B” yields to “A” at “T”
intersection with no signs
or signals.
“B” yields to “A” before
entering roadway from
alley or driveway.
Figure C Figure D
Figure A Figure B
A driver must yield:
• When a pedestrian is in an unmarked crosswalk on the driver’s side of the roadway, and
there are no traffic control signals.
• When making a turn at any intersection.
• When making a lawful turn on a red light after coming to a complete stop.
• After coming to a complete stop at a stop sign or flashing red signal at an intersection.
• When a pedestrian enters a crosswalk before the traffic light changes.
• When a pedestrian walks with a green light, to a walking person symbol or to a walk
signal.
• When a pedestrian is leaves or enters a street or highway from an alley, building,
private road, or driveway.
• When a pedestrian enters an intersection with a flashing yellow arrow.
• To a person with disabilities, including physical, hearing and visual disabilities.
28
Passing
Drivers must use caution when passing another vehicle. On a two-lane highway, the left
lane should be clearly visible and free of oncoming traffic for a distance great enough to
permit passing. Do not turn back into the right-hand lane until the entire vehicle they have
just passed is visible in the rearview mirror. You must return to your lane before getting
within 200 feet of an oncoming vehicle. The driver of the vehicle you are passing must not
increase speed until you have completed your maneuver.
It is against the law to flash turn signals as a courtesy or “do pass” signal to other drivers.
Driving off the pavement or main traveled part of the road is not allowed when passing
another vehicle on the right or the left. When passing a pedestrian who is walking on the
road or shoulder of the roadway, keep a minimum of 3 feet between your vehicle and the
pedestrian. When passing a bicyclist on any road, including a bicyclist on the road shoulder
or in a dedicated bicycle lane, keep a minimum distance of 3 feet from the bicyclist.
You may pass on the right (but not on the shoulder except for authorized vehicles):
• When you have enough room on a two-lane roadway, and when the vehicle you are
passing is making or is about to make a left turn.
• On a one-way street or on a roadway with two or more clear lanes in each direction.
• At an intersection widened for this purpose.
No Passing Zone Curve
Hill Railroad, Bridge, Tunnel, Viaduct
Do Not Pass — Black Car is Breaking the Law
29
Passing on a two-lane, two-way roadway is not allowed:
• In an area marked for no passing by a solid yellow line or with a DO NOT PASS or NO
PASSING ZONE sign.
• On a hill or curve where it is not possible to see oncoming vehicles.
• Within 100 feet of an intersection or railroad crossing.
• When the view is blocked within 100 feet of any bridge, viaduct or tunnel.
• When a vehicle has stopped at a crosswalk or intersection to allow a pedestrian to
cross.
• In a construction zone. All construction zones in Illinois are no passing zones.
• In any school zone located in an unincorporated area.
• In any posted school zone in an incorporated area.
• When a school bus has stopped to load or discharge passengers.
Lane Usage
You must drive on the right half of the roadway except:
• When passing another vehicle moving in the same direction on a two-lane highway,
interstate highway, or controlled freeway.
• When a blockage makes it necessary to drive to the left of the center line. You may drive
on the left after yielding to oncoming traffic.
• On a roadway divided into three marked lanes for traffic.
• On a one-way street with two or more lanes of traffic.
• When directed to drive in a left lane by traffic control signs and signals on a multilane,
two-way highway.
• When crossing the center line to make a left turn into or from an alley, private road, or
driveway.
• When approaching a stationary emergency vehicle or disabled vehicle on the side of
the highway.
• When roadway construction is located in or in close proximity to the right lane or right
shoulder.
When driving on an interstate highway or full access controlled freeway, you may not drive
in the left lane(s) except when passing another vehicle. Exceptions include when:
• No other vehicle is directly behind the vehicle being driven in the left lane.
• Traffic conditions/congestion make it impractical to drive in the right lane.
• Weather conditions make it necessary to use the left lane(s).
• There is an obstruction or hazard in the right lane.
• You are changing lanes to yield to emergency or construction vehicles.
Additional rules apply in certain situations:
• Slow vehicles must use the right-hand lane except when passing or turning left.
• Weaving from lane to lane to move faster than the traffic flow is unlawful.
• Traffic must travel in the direction of posted one-way streets or roadways. This rule does
not apply to police and emergency vehicles using sirens or flashing lights.
• It is unlawful to drive across median strips such as unpaved strips or median barriers.
30
You may turn left across a paved dividing space unless it is not permitted by a traffic
control sign or signal.
• You must not enter or leave any controlled-access roadway except at a posted entrance
or exit.
• You may not back up on any shoulder or roadway of any controlled-access roadway.
• You may not back up on other roadways unless it is done safely and does not interfere
with other vehicles.
• You or your passenger may not open doors on the side of a vehicle where traffic is
moving unless it can be done safely and without interfering with vehicle or bicycle
traffic. The door may remain open only long enough to load or unload passengers. You
should consider using their right hand to open the vehicle door to allow them to turn and
check for oncoming vehicles and bicyclists. This is more commonly known as the Dutch
Reach. A graphic of this movement can be found on page 43.
• It is illegal to engage in a street sideshow, which is an event in which one or more
vehicles block or impede traffic on a street or highway to perform unauthorized motor
vehicle stunts, motor vehicle speed contests, or motor vehicle exhibitions of speed.
Signaling
In a business or residential area, you must give a continuous turn signal for at least 100
feet before turning. In other areas, the signal must be given at least 200 feet before turning.
You may signal in two ways:
• Electrical turn signals — Apply the right-turn signal for a right turn and the left-turn
signal for a left turn.
• Hand and arm signals — Should give the signal using the left arm. For a right turn, the
hand and arm are extended straight up. For a left turn, the hand and arm are extended
straight out to the left. To slow down or stop, the hand and arm are extended down.
Right Turn Left Turn Slow or Stop
Turning
Right Turns
• Give a right-turn signal from the proper turning lane.
• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Yield the right of way to pedestrians, emergency vehicles and other vehicles in the
intersection.
• Check traffic approaching from the left.
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• Follow the general curve of the curb while making the right turn. Stay as close as
possible to the curb.
• Turn into the right-hand lane of the roadway you are entering.
• Be aware that trucks and buses may need more space to make a right-hand turn.
• Be aware of bike lanes and check for bicyclists approaching the intersection.
Left Turns:
• Give a left-turn signal from the proper turning lane.
• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Yield the right of way to pedestrians, emergency vehicles, and other vehicles in the
intersection.
• Check all approaching traffic.
• Point the wheels straight ahead until starting to make the turn.
• Complete the turn into the lane closest to the intended direction.
Two-Way
Two-Way
One-Way
One-Way
One-Way One-Way
Changing Lanes
When moving your vehicle from the right-hand lane to the left-hand lane, check for traffic
behind your vehicle and to the left by turning your head and visually assessing the area.
32
If the area is clear, give the left-turn signal and carefully move into the left lane.
When moving your vehicle from the left-hand lane to the right-hand lane, check for traffic
behind your vehicle and to the right by turning your head and visually assessing the area.
If the area is clear, give the right-turn signal and carefully move into the right lane.
U-Turns
You must not turn around on curves and hills unless you can see for at least 500 feet in all
directions. Municipalities may prohibit U-turns on some roadways.
Hazard Signal
Both turn signals may be flashed at the same time to indicate a disabled or parked vehicle.
Two-Way Left Turn Lane
The two-way left turn lane provides a safe area for cars making left turns at intersections
or for vehicles turning left into or out of a drive located in the middle of the block.
Turns and Lane Changes in Construction Zones
Pay special attention to signs, barricades, and pavement markings when turning or
changing lanes.
Rotary and Roundabout
A rotary or roundabout is an intersection where traffic travels around a central island in a
circular, counter-clockwise direction. Roundabouts may have more than one lane of traffic.
Vehicles entering or exiting a roundabout must yield to all traffic, including pedestrians
and bicycles. When you approach a roundabout:
• Slow down.
• Look for signs and any pavement markings prohibiting certain movements.
• Enter the roundabout by turning right when it is safe to do so.
• Stay in your lane.
• Use your vehicle’s right turn signal to let other drivers know you are exiting the
roundabout.
Some tips for safely maneuvering in a rotary or roundabout include:
• Look for street and direction signs when approaching and before entering a roundabout.
This will help determine which exit to take. These signs should be posted along the
roadside before reaching the roundabout.
• Do not change lanes or take an exit before checking for vehicles that may be continuing
through the roundabout. Expect vehicles to be in blind spots that cannot be seen in
rearview or side mirrors.
Special Stops
School Buses
A vehicle is not required to stop for a school bus when both vehicles are on a four-lane
33
roadway and the bus is stopped in the opposite direction from which a driver is traveling.
Any other time, you must stop before meeting or overtaking (passing) a school bus that is
stopped and loading or unloading passengers. This includes:
• Any two-lane roadway in rural areas and within city limits.
• Any roadway, highway, or private road.
• Any parking lot located on school property.
A warning will be given by the school bus at least 100 feet
(200 feet in rural areas) in advance of a stop. The bus driver
will flash lights on the front and rear of the bus. The school
bus stop signal arm will be extended after the school bus has come to a complete stop.
When approaching a school bus from the opposite direction, you must come to a complete
stop and remain stopped until the stop signal arm is no longer extended and the flashing
lights are turned off or the school bus driver signals vehicles to pass.
A conviction for passing a stopped school bus with flashing lights and the stop arm
extended will result in the suspension of your driver’s license. If convicted of this violation,
you will be subject to a mandatory fine of $300 and community service in an amount set by
the court. If the owner(s) of the vehicle were not driving when the offense occurred, they
must provide the State’s Attorney’s Office with the name of the person driving the vehicle
or their vehicle registration will be suspended for three months.
Railroad Crossing
You must yield the right of way to any approaching train or railroad equipment.
When approaching a railroad crossing, you must stop within 15-50 feet if there is a posted
stop sign, if the electric signal is flashing, or if the crossing gate is lowered. You also must
stop if a flagger issues a signal to stop or a train is approaching and/or gives a warning.
You may proceed only after the gate is all the way up, the lights are no longer flashing
or the flagger has signaled traffic to proceed. Visually check all the tracks for additional
oncoming trains or railroad equipment before proceeding.
If a railroad crossing has no warning devices or only a crossbuck sign (see page 82 for an
example of a crossbuck), slow down, look in both directions of the track and listen for a
train or railroad equipment. If it is safe to do so, proceed with caution across the railroad
crossing.
You may not enter a highway railroad crossing unless there is sufficient space on the other
side of the crossing to accommodate your vehicle without obstructing passage of a train
or other railroad equipment using the rails.
Vehicles required by law to stop at most all railroad crossings are vehicles carrying people
for hire, school buses, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials.
If your vehicle becomes disabled and is stuck or stalls on railroad tracks, everyone in
the vehicle should get out immediately, call 911, and move away from the tracks at
34
a 45-degree angle in the direction of the train. This action keeps
everyone safe from the forward flying debris if the train strikes the
vehicle. If possible, the driver or one of the passengers should call the
railroad Emergency Notification System. This number is located on the
blue sign affixed to the railroad crossing post near the tracks.
The following are important laws and safety tips when approaching a
railroad crossing:
• Drive as though expecting a train on any track at any time.
• Once a train has passed, always look for a second train on another track before
proceeding.
• Check carefully to make sure there is enough room for a vehicle on the other side of the
railroad track. If there is not enough room, do not cross the tracks.
• If a vehicle has a manual transmission, shift down before reaching the tracks. To avoid
stalling, do not change gears while crossing the track.
• Never race a train.
• Be prepared to stop when behind vehicles required to stop at railroad crossings.
Alleys/Driveways
In urban areas, you must come to a complete stop when moving out of an alley, building,
private road, or driveway and before entering the sidewalk area. If there is no sidewalk,
stop at a point nearest the street or roadway where there is a view of approaching traffic.
After stopping, yield the right of way to pedestrians and all vehicles. If you are making a
turn from the alley or driveway, use the appropriate turn signal indicating your intended
direction.
Parking
Hill Parking
Any time you park on a hill, you should put the gear select in park and set the parking/
emergency brake if necessary. When starting a vehicle from an uphill or downhill location,
release the parking/emergency brake, give the correct signal, check for oncoming traffic,
and proceed when it is safe to do so.
• If you park on a street with curbing and your vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front
wheels toward the curb so your vehicle will roll toward the curb.
• If you park facing uphill and there is a curb, turn the front wheels away from the curb.
(See illustration on the next page.)
• If you park on a street without curbing, turn the wheels toward the side of the road on
which your vehicle is parked. (See illustration on the next page.)
35
Downhill
Turn Wheels to Curb Uphill with Curb
Turn Wheels from Curb Uphill or Downhill without Curb
Turn Wheels to Right
Parallel Parking
When parking on streets with two-way traffic, park so the right-hand wheels are parallel
to and within 12 inches of the curb. On a one-way street or road, the vehicle should be
parked within 12 inches of the right or left curb. Vehicles must be parked in the direction
in which traffic is moving.
Parking for Persons with Disabilities
Vehicles displaying license plates or parking placards for persons with disabilities may use
spaces reserved for persons with disabilities. The authorized holder of the parking placard
or license plates must be present and must enter or exit the vehicle when the parking
privileges are being used. A striped area on the pavement next to an accessible parking
space is part of the reserved space. Vehicles may not use this striped area for parking even
if they have a disabled parking placard or disability license plates. More information on
this program is available on page 100.
Parking for Electric Vehicles
Some parking areas may have spaces equipped with charging stations for electric vehicles.
Only electric vehicles are allowed to park in these designated spaces.
Prohibited Stopping, Standing, or Parking
Stopping, standing, or parking is prohibited in specified places. Local stopping, standing,
and parking regulations may be posted on signs. There are, however, statewide regulations
that are not always indicated by signs.
Stopping, standing, or parking is prohibited:
• On the roadway side of any parked vehicle (also known as double parking).
• On a sidewalk, crosswalk, or within an intersection.
• Between a safety zone and the adjacent curb.
• In a marked, buffered, or barrel-protected bike lane.
• Beside or to the opposite of any street excavation or obstruction if the vehicle would
block traffic.
• On any bridge, overpass, railroad track, or within a highway tunnel.
• On any controlled-access roadway — one where a vehicle may enter or exit only at
certain points.
• In the area between roadways of a divided highway, including crossovers.
36
• On a paved roadway or highway outside business or residential
districts when it is practical to stop or park off the roadway. In an
emergency, drivers may stop their vehicle and park only if there is
a clear view of 200 feet in each direction. The driver should turn on
the emergency flashers and make sure there is enough space for
other vehicles to pass.
• At any place where official signs prohibit stopping, standing, or
parking.
Standing or parking a vehicle, whether occupied or not, is prohibited:
• In front of a public or private driveway.
• Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
• Within 20 feet of a fire station driveway or crosswalk at an intersection.
• Within 30 feet of a STOP sign, YIELD sign, or traffic control signal.
Parking a vehicle, whether occupied or not, is prohibited:
• Within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing.
• On a highway between sunset and sunrise unless the front and rear parking lights
are displayed or the vehicle is within an urban district where lights are not required.
Headlights on parked vehicles must be dimmed.
Additional Laws
Motorists should familiarize themselves with local laws as they may vary between
municipalities. Illinois law states that you may not:
• Cause an object to fall from an overpass or other elevated location in the direction of a
moving vehicle with the intent to strike it.
• Drive on a sidewalk except when it is part of a driveway.
• Overload a vehicle with passengers or freight so that the driver’s view is obstructed.
There should be no more people in the front and rear seats as there are seat belts.
• Ride in a house trailer while it is being moved on a street or highway.
• Operate or permit to be operated any sound system (radio, tape player or disc player) at
a volume that can be heard 75 feet or more from a vehicle being driven on a highway.
— Chapter 4 Study Questions —
1. When passing another vehicle, a driver should wait until the entire car the driver just
passed is visible in the rearview mirror before turning back into the right-hand lane.
True False
2. After making a proper stop and yielding to traffic or pedestrians within the
intersection, it is permissible for drivers on a one-way street to turn left at a red light
onto another one-way street that moves traffic to the left.
True False
3. How should a driver proceed if within an intersection waiting to make a left turn and
37
the traffic signal light turns red?
a. Wait in the intersection until the light turns green.
b. Yield to oncoming traffic and complete the turn.
c. Make sure it is clear, then back up from the intersection.
4. When on a two-lane roadway, drivers must stop their vehicles when approaching
a stopped school bus with its red warning lights flashing and its stop signal arm
extended.
True False
5. When an authorized vehicle using its sirens and flashing lights approaches a
vehicle, the driver should pull to the right-hand edge of the roadway and wait for the
emergency vehicle to pass.
True False
6. What is the penalty for being convicted of illegally passing a stopped school bus?
a. A suspension of driving privileges.
b. A suspension of the vehicle registration.
c. A $30 fine.
7. A driver may pass another vehicle by driving on the shoulder of the road.
True False
8. It is permissible to make a right turn against a red-signal light after stopping and
yielding to other vehicles and pedestrians.
True False
9. A driver must give the right- or left-turn signal when changing lanes.
True False
10. In urban areas, drivers moving out of an alley, building, private road, or driveway
need not come to a complete stop before entering the roadway if the roadway is
clear of traffic.
True False
11. For what distance should a continuous turn signal be given when making a left or
right turn in a business or residential district?
a. Not less than 50 feet before turning.
b. Not less than 75 feet before turning.
c. Not less than 100 feet before turning.
12. A driver may proceed immediately when waiting at an intersection and the traffic
signal light turns green.
True False
13. What should drivers do when approaching a construction area?
a. Increase their speed to get out of the way quickly.
b. Slow down, stop all wireless telephone communications, and yield the right of
way.
38
c. Honk their horn several times to alert individuals working in the area of their
presence.
14. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in an unmarked crosswalk.
True False
15. It is legal for anyone to talk on the phone if using a hands-free device while driving,
unless under age 19.
True False
16. Speed should be reduced below the posted speed limit for which of the following
reasons?
a. Driver is driving in unfavorable weather conditions.
b. Driver is approaching and crossing an intersection.
c. Both of the above.
17. Slow vehicles should use the left-hand lane except when passing or turning left.
True False
18. When must a driver slow down for a school zone?
a. On school days between 6:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., when children are present and signs
are posted.
b. On weekends.
c. Only during recess.
19. Drivers may open car doors on the side where traffic is moving only when it can be
done safely and without interfering with traffic.
True False
20. It is permissible to pass on a two-lane, two-way roadway within 100 feet of an
intersection or railroad crossing.
True False
21. Only vehicles displaying special plates or parking placards for persons with
disabilities may park in spaces reserved for them by an official PARKING FOR
PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES sign.
True False
22. Unless authorized to do so, drivers may not break into the line of a funeral
procession.
True False
23. After being pulled over by law enforcement, a driver should immediately exit the
vehicle and quickly approach the officer’s squad car.
True False
24. If drivers need to obtain insurance or vehicle registration information from the glove
39
box, they should inform the police officer before doing so.
True False
25. All vehicles are required to stop within how many feet of the nearest rail of a
railroad crossing when a train is approaching?
a. between 15 and 50 feet.
b. between 5 and 10 feet.
c. 10 feet.
26. When approaching a railroad crossing that has no warning signals (such as electric
flashing lights or gates), a driver should look, listen and slow down.
True False
27. If moving with a stream of vehicles across a railroad track, it is safe to stop on the
track for a short period of time.
True False
28. After a train clears a crossing that has flashing signals, drivers may proceed after
checking for a second train on another track and the lights have stopped flashing.
True False
40
Chapter 5: Sharing the Road
The driver of a passenger vehicle must share the road with many types of vehicles and
pedestrians. A pedestrian is any person afoot or wearing in-line speed skates or riding a
skateboard, including a person with a physical, hearing, or visual disability.
Pedestrians
Both drivers and pedestrians are responsible for traffic safety. A driver should always be
prepared to yield the right of way and should not drive unnecessarily close to pedestrians.
When crossing at any place other than a marked or unmarked crosswalk, pedestrians must
give the right of way to drivers. This includes between closely spaced intersections where
traffic signals are in operation. A pedestrian tunnel or pedestrian crossing bridge should
be used when available.
Pedestrians must not walk on a roadway unless there is no sidewalk or shoulder next to it.
Under these conditions, pedestrians should always walk as far from the outside edge of
the road as possible. In two-way traffic, pedestrians should walk facing oncoming traffic.
If a highway does not have a sidewalk but has a shoulder, pedestrians should always walk
on the shoulder as far from the roadway as possible. Pedestrians should not walk on a
highway when under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
Pedestrians With Disabilities
When approaching a pedestrian with a disability who is utilizing a guide dog, a white
cane, a wheelchair, or other assistive device on a sidewalk or roadway, the person with
the disability has the right of way and is granted the same rights as any pedestrian.
Joggers/Walkers
Joggers/walkers should use jogging paths when provided. On public roads, joggers/
walkers should try to select wide roads with good shoulders. They should face oncoming
traffic and remember to look and listen for cars. At night or when visibility is poor, joggers/
walkers should be in well-lit areas and wear reflective clothing.
Other Safety Concerns
• Pedestrians must always obey railroad and bridge gates and other barriers.
• Standing on the roadway to ask for a ride (hitchhiking) is illegal.
• Pedestrians should not stand on or next to a highway to ask drivers or passengers for
money or business.
• Pedestrians ages 18 or older may skate on public roadways where the posted speed
limit is 45 mph or less from sunrise to sunset as long as vehicular traffic is not impeded
or obstructed.
41
Children
To ensure the safety of children, drivers and parents should:
• Watch for signs that mark special hazard areas, such as school zones, bus stops,
playgrounds, parks, and schools.
• Be ready to reduce speed in residential areas, school areas, and places where children
are most likely to be.
• Be extremely watchful when backing in or out of a driveway when children are near.
• Teach children the rights and responsibilities of pedestrians at an early age.
• Assign play areas for children. Parents should make sure children do not play in or near
streets, driveways, or other dangerous areas.
Motorcycles
Motorcycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users.
Because of their size and vulnerability in a crash, it is important to pay special attention
to motorcycles.
The failure of motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic is the most common
cause of motorcycle crashes. Due to their small size, motorcycles may be difficult to see,
and motorists tend to underestimate their speed. A driver should expect to see motorcycles
in traffic at any time, not just in the spring and summer. Drivers involved in crashes often
report not seeing the motorcycle or seeing it too late to avoid a collision.
Intersections
More than 50% of all motorcycle crashes occur at intersections. The most common
situation occurs when an oncoming automobile makes a left turn in front of a motorcycle.
Watch for motorcycles before turning and yield the right of way. Be particularly careful
when making a left turn across lanes of oncoming traffic and wait to be sure of the
motorcycle operator’s intent before making a left turn.
Stoplights
If a red light fails to turn green after 120 seconds, a motorcyclist may proceed through an
intersection after yielding the right of way to oncoming traffic.
Lane Sharing
Traffic conditions and road surfaces will determine the area within the lane that the
motorcyclist will use. Although there may be enough room in the traffic lane for an
automobile and a motorcyclist, remember that the motorcyclist needs the room to
maneuver safely and is entitled to the entire lane. Do not share the lane.
Passing
When being passed by a motorcycle, you should maintain your lane position and speed.
Allow the motorcycle to complete the maneuver and assume proper lane position as
quickly as possible.
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Following and Stopping Distance
Allow at least three to four seconds following distance when behind a motorcycle so the
motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver in an emergency. In dry conditions, motorcycles
can stop more quickly than a car. Dim your headlights when following all vehicles,
including motorcycles.
Motorcycles can stop in a shorter distance than a car. A motorcyclist’s ability to stop
quickly also may depend on the rider’s experience and training.
Road Conditions
Motorcycles react differently to traffic, weather, and road conditions than cars. Riders may
respond in ways a vehicle driver does not expect. Wet or icy roads impair a motorcyclist’s
ability to brake and maneuver. Wind gusts, both natural and those created by large passing
vehicles, can move a motorcycle across an entire lane if the rider is not prepared. Potholes,
oil spills, gravel, debris, or railroad tracks often require motorcyclists to change positions
within their lane. Gravel roads decrease traction and may cause a rider to slow down or
brake where a car would not.
In Case of a Crash
Motorcyclists may only be protected by a helmet, eye protection, boots, gloves, and
durable clothing. In a crash, use extreme caution and seek emergency medical assistance.
More information on motorcycle safety is available in the Illinois Motorcycle Operators
Manual, available at any DMV or at ilsos.gov.
Autocycles
An autocycle is a three-wheeled vehicle that has a steering wheel and seating that does
not require the driver to straddle or sit astride it. This type of vehicle may be operated on
Illinois roadways when correctly titled and registered with the Secretary of State. The
operator of the vehicle must have a valid Illinois driver’s license to legally operate the
vehicle.
Bicycles
Manual, Gas or Electric Powered
On most roadways, bicyclists (including those on electric bikes or gas driven bicycles that
do not exceed 20 mph) have the same rights and responsibilities as other roadway users,
including the right of way.
The following are important laws and safety tips regarding bicyclists:
• Some municipalities have roadways with designated bike lanes. Vehicles are not
allowed to drive, park, idle, or drop off or pick up passengers in these bike lanes even if
bicyclists are not present.
• Bicyclists may need to ride outside a bike lane, and drivers should be prepared to safely
move around them.
• Bicyclists are prohibited on controlled-access highways, expressways, and other
43
USE YOUR RIGHT HAND,
LOOK FOR BIKES
Using your right
hand to open
the car door will
force your upper
body to turn
and look behind
for oncoming
cyclists
marked roadways.
• Bicyclists are required to travel in the same direction as vehicles.
• Bicyclists should travel just to the right of faster-moving traffic. However, hazards, such
as rough surfaces, debris, drainage grates, or a narrow traffic lane, may require bike
riders to move toward the center of the lane.
• Bicyclists may ride side by side on the roadway as long as the normal and reasonable
movement of traffic is not impeded. Riding more than two abreast is prohibited except
on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.
• Drivers must yield the right of way to a bicyclist just as they would to another vehicle.
• When passing a bicyclist, motorists must do so slowly and leave at least 3 feet of
passing space from the edge of the vehicle’s side mirror. If there is not 3 feet of passing
space, drivers must wait to pass until they can do so safely. If a driver passes too close
to a bicyclist and it results in a crash, the driver may face criminal charges.
• Crowding or threatening a bicyclist is prohibited.
• When following bicyclists, a driver should give them plenty of room and be prepared to
stop quickly. Extra caution should be used during bad weather.
• High beam lights should not be used at night when approaching an oncoming bicyclist.
• When a motorist is turning left and a bicyclist enters the intersection from the opposite
direction, the driver should wait for the bicyclist to pass before making the turn. If a
motorist is sharing the left-turn lane with a bicyclist, the motorist should stay behind
until the bicyclist has safely completed the turn.
• If motorists are turning right and a bicyclist is approaching on the right, they should let
the bicyclist go through the intersection first before making a right turn. A driver should
remember to signal when turning.
• Low-speed electric or gas bicycles must have a motor of less than 1 horsepower and
must be operated by a person who is at least age 16.
• Low-speed electric and gas bicycles may only be driven on streets and may not exceed
20 mph. They may not be driven on sidewalks.
• Low-speed and electric bicycles must follow all laws applicable to bicyclists.
• After parking and before opening vehicle doors, a motorist should first check for
bicyclists. Drivers should consider reaching with their
right hand to open the vehicle door as this gives them
a better opportunity to check their surroundings for
oncoming vehicles and bicyclists.
A low-speed electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with
fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than
750 watts. Low-speed electric bicycles may operate on any
authorized highway, street, or roadway, including bicycle lanes and bike paths. They may
not be operated on sidewalks. Local authorities may prohibit the using low-speed electric
bicycles on roadways or bike paths within their jurisdiction.
44
There are three classes of low-speed electric bicycles:
• Class 1—Equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling
and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 mph.
• Class 2 — Equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle but
not capable of engaging when a bicycle reaches 20 mph.
• Class 3 — Equipped with a motor that engages only when the rider is pedaling
and provides assistance when the bicycle reaches 28 mph. Operators must be at least
age 16.
Persons may operate a Class 3 low-speed electric bicycle only if they are 16 years of age
or older. A person who is under 16 years of age may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 low-
speed electric bicycle that is designed to accommodate passengers.
For more information, an Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road booklet is available at any
local DMV or at ilsos.gov. Visit www.bikesafetyquiz.com for more information on vehicle
and bicycle safety.
Scooters and Mopeds
Only motor-driven cycles and motorcycles properly titled and registered in Illinois may be
legally operated on Illinois roadways. A scooter may be titled and registered in Illinois if
it displays a federal safety certification label and to a vehicle identification number (VIN).
A scooter or moped driver must obey all signs, signals and traffic laws and is subject to
most laws regarding the use of bicycles. Mopeds or scooters carrying two people must
have a seat and footrest for the passenger. If driven at night, it must have a headlight
visible from at least 500 feet and a taillight on the rear that is visible from at least 100-600
feet.
To determine what type of driver’s license is required to operate a scooter or moped on
Illinois roadways, follow these guidelines:
• If the scooter has an engine with less than 150cc displacement, it is a motor-driven
cycle, and a Class L motorcycle license is required.
• If the scooter has an engine with 150cc displacement or greater, it is a motorcycle and
a Class M license is required.
• A moped may be operated with any valid Illinois driver’s license. If a combustion
engine is used, it may not exceed 50cc displacement and may not require the operator
to shift gears.
• A low-speed electric scooter is a scooter that weighs less than 100 pounds and has 2 or
3 wheels, handlebars, and a floorboard than can be stood on while riding that is solely
powered by an electric motor and human propulsion and has a maximum speed of 10
miles per hour. A low-speed electric scooter does not require a driver’s license and may
only be operated on a roadway, trail, or sidewalk if permitted by the local municipality
or park district. You must be 18 years of age or older to operate a low-speed electric
scooter. You may not operate a low-speed scooter on any highway with more than 35
mph speed limit, and it must be equipped with a head lamp, which may be visible up to
45
NO ZONE
NO
ZONE
NO
ZONE
NO ZONE
500 feet, and a red reflector or lamp on the rear. No more than
one person may be on a low-speed electric scooter.
Large Vehicles
When sharing the road with trucks, buses, or other large vehicles,
a driver of a smaller vehicle should:
• Stay out of blind spots and maintain a visible position when
following a large vehicle. Drivers of large vehicles should be
able to see surrounding vehicles in their side mirrors.
• Pay close attention to turn signals and give large vehicles
plenty of room to maneuver and make turns. Large vehicles
make wide right turns and sometimes leave an open space to
the right just before the turn.
• Always allow extra space for large vehicles. Size and weight can affect a large vehicle’s
ability to maneuver and stop.
• Always dim headlights when following a truck at night. Bright lights will blind the
drivers of large vehicles when they reflect off the large side mirrors.
• Blink the vehicle’s headlights when passing a truck to let the truck driver know, especially
at night. The truck driver may make it easier by staying to the far side of the lane. The
pass should be completed as quickly as possible to avoid staying alongside the truck.
Disabled Vehicles
When drivers approach any disabled vehicle using hazard lights on a four-lane highway,
Illinois law requires drivers to change lanes away from the disabled vehicle if it is safe to
do so. If it is not safe to change lanes, the driver should reduce speed when approaching
and passing the disabled vehicle. Speed should not be increased until well past the
disabled vehicle.
Illinois law states that a person may not:
• Push a disabled vehicle on a rural highway unless there is an emergency, and it should
be removed to avoid a hazard.
• Remove a wrecked or damaged vehicle from the roadway without removing all glass
and other debris.
• Tow one vehicle with another except by a drawbar. In most cases, the distance between
the two cars should not exceed 15 feet. A towed vehicle should be coupled to the
towing vehicle with two chains or cables.
Illinois law requires a disabled, unattended, or abandoned vehicle to be removed from the
roadway as soon as possible. Law enforcement may request that a vehicle be towed at the
owner’s expense if it has been left along a roadway after a certain period of time.
• Interstate, expressway, or toll highway – after two hours.
• Highway in an urban area – after 10 hours.
• Highway in a non-urban area – after 24 hours.
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Low-Speed Vehicles
A low-speed vehicle is any four-wheeled vehicle that has a federal safety certification
label and a vehicle identification number (VIN). Low-speed vehicles can have a maximum
speed of 25 mph. Low-speed vehicles must be titled and registered in the same manner as
any other vehicle. Low-speed vehicles may operate on any street with a posted speed limit
of 30 mph or less unless prohibited by the local municipality. Low-speed vehicles must be
equipped with the following:
• Parking brake.
• Steering wheel.
• Tires.
• Windshield.
• Safety belts.
• Rearview mirror.
• Exterior rearview mirror – mounted on driver’s side of the vehicle.
• Red reflectors – mounted on each rear side of the vehicle and one in the middle.
• Headlight – visible for 500 feet from the front.
• Taillights – red light visible for 100 feet from the rear.
• Brake lights.
• Front and rear turn signals.
NOTE: See page 93 for definitions of this required equipment.
Slow-Moving Vehicles
Certain slow-moving farm vehicles, construction equipment, and animal-drawn vehicles
may share the roadways. Use caution and prepare to slow down when approaching and
passing slow-moving vehicles from the rear. An orange slow-moving vehicle emblem must
be on the rear of certain slow-moving vehicles. (See page 75.)
Closing Speeds
Normal speeds for slow-moving vehicles range from 5-20 mph. When a vehicle traveling
at normal highway speed approaches a slow-moving vehicle from the rear, the speed
differential will dramatically shorten the time it takes to reach the slow-moving vehicle.
Turns and Passing
Slow-moving vehicles may make wide turns and may turn right or left at any time into
unmarked entrances. Stay a safe distance behind a slow-moving vehicle when approaching
it from the rear, and only pass when it is safe to do so. Be certain that the slow-moving
vehicle operator knows your presence and intent to pass before beginning the maneuver.
Rear Light
When lights are required, a flashing amber signal must be mounted as high as possible on
the rear of the vehicle. It must be visible for 500 feet in sunlight. Other devices to identify
slow-moving vehicles may include reflectors or rotating or oscillating amber lights.
47
Lane Usage
Slower traffic must drive in the right lane. The left lane is for passing and turning. Slow-
moving vehicles may be wider than the lane width, so it may be necessary for these
vehicles to temporarily move into an adjoining lane to avoid roadside obstructions.
Snowmobiles
During the winter, a driver may share the roadway with snowmobiles. Use care when
driving in areas with snowmobile warning signs. For more information on snowmobile
registration and operating requirements, call the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
at 866-867-3542 or visit www.dnr.illinois.gov.
Horseback Riders
Horseback riders may use public roadways. The exceptions are controlled-access
highways and most expressways. Horseback riders must ride in the same direction as
other traffic and as far to the right as possible. Never sound a horn when near a horse or
other livestock, as the sound may frighten it and cause a crash. When meeting or passing
a horseback rider, do so with caution and be prepared to stop.
— Chapter 5 Study Questions —
1. When motorists are turning right and a bicyclist is approaching on the right, they
should let the bicyclist go through the intersection first before making a right turn.
True False
2. A driver does not need to allow as much distance when following a motorcycle as
when following a car.
True False
3. Motorcyclists are entitled to use the full width of a traffic lane; therefore, a driver
should pass a motorcycle the same way a driver would pass another vehicle.
True False
4. When following a truck at night, it is important for drivers to dim their vehicle’s
headlights.
True False
5. When approaching a disabled pedestrian using a guide dog, white cane, or other
assistive device, a driver should yield the right of way.
True False
6. When opening your driver’s side door on a road with oncoming vehicle and bicycle
traffic, you should:
a. Open the vehicle door by reaching across with your right hand to get a better view
of the vehicle and bicycle traffic approaching from behind.
b. Open the vehicle door only when it does not interfere with the vehicle and bicycle
traffic approaching from behind.
48
1. c. Open the vehicle door with your left hand and then check for oncoming vehicle and
bicycle traffic.
d. Both a and b.
Chapter 6: Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Alcohol is the number one killer on American roadways. Alcohol affects your vision and
slows your reaction time, so it takes longer to act in an emergency. Alcohol affects your
driving even if you are below the level of illegal intoxication. Drinking even a small amount
of alcohol increases the chances of causing a crash.
Blood-Alcohol Concentration (BAC)/Presence of Drugs
Blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) is a measurement of the amount of alcohol in your
system based on a test of your breath, blood, urine, or other bodily substance. It is illegal
to drive if your BAC is .08% or more. However, you can be convicted of Driving Under the
Influence (DUI) if your BAC is less than .08% but your driving ability is impaired.
Other factors affect your reaction to alcohol, including the food you have recently eaten,
your tolerance of alcohol, and any drugs you may have consumed. Time is the only way to
remove the effects of alcohol. Food, coffee, and showers do not speed up the elimination
of alcohol from your body.
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle on Illinois highways with a cannabis tetrahydro-
cannabinol concentration (THC) of either 5 nanograms or more per milliliter of whole blood
or 10 nanograms or more per milliliter of other bodily substance. It is illegal to operate
a motor vehicle on Illinois highways with any trace of a controlled drug, substance, or
intoxicating compound in the blood.
Medical and Recreational Cannabis (Marijuana)
Illinois law allows for the medical and recreational use of cannabis for persons ages 21
and older. Individuals who wish to use cannabis for medicinal purposes may enroll in the
Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program, administered by the Illinois Department
of Public Health. The Department of Public Health will issue a registry ID card, and a
notation will be made on the registrant’s Illinois driving record.
You may not operate a motor vehicle while impaired by the use of cannabis, whether used
medically or recreationally. Cannabis may only be transported in a vehicle in a sealed,
odor-proof, and child-resistant container. No driver or passenger may use cannabis in a
motor vehicle. If a police officer stops a vehicle and the officer has reasonable suspicion
to believe the person is impaired by the use of cannabis, the driver must submit to field
sobriety testing and/or validated roadside chemical tests. Refusal to submit to testing or
failure of field sobriety tests and/or validated roadside chemical tests will result in the
suspension of the person’s driver’s license.
49
Driving while impaired by the use of cannabis or illegal transportation of cannabis in
a motor vehicle may result in the loss of driving privileges and, for a medical cannabis
registry card holder, the revocation of the driver’s medical cannabis card for two years.
Other Drugs
In addition to alcohol and cannabis, many prescription and nonprescription drugs impair
safe driving. These drugs include but are not limited to: antihistamines, cold remedies, pain
relievers, mood-changing drugs, hashish, LSD, heroin, cocaine, morphine, amphetamines,
and methamphetamines. Mixing even small amounts of alcohol with other drugs is very
dangerous.
DUI Laws
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that is classified in Illinois as a
violent crime. If you are convicted of DUI, the offense will permanently remain on your
driving record. If you are arrested and/or convicted, you may lose your driving privileges
and vehicle registration and be fined and/or imprisoned.
Implied Consent Law
When operating on Illinois roadways, you automatically consent to submit to certain tests.
These can include breath, blood, urine, or other bodily substance tests to determine if you
were under the influence. If involved in a personal injury crash or a crash resulting in the
death of another person and law enforcement officers have probable cause to believe you
were impaired, they must request a drug or alcohol test. You may have a qualified person
of your choice administer additional tests at your own expense.
If you refuse to take a breath test or if an officer believes that a blood test may disclose
the presence of drugs, you may be held financially liable up to $500 for the costs of the
blood tests if found guilty of DUI.
Statutory Summary Suspension/Revocation Law
If a chemical test discloses a BAC of .08% or more or a THC level of either 5 nanograms
or more per milliliter of whole blood or 10 nanograms or more per milliliter of other bodily
substance, your driving privileges will be suspended for six months. This also applies to
any amount of a drug substance or intoxicating compound resulting from the unlawful
use or consumption of a controlled substance listed in the Illinois Controlled Substances
Act, an intoxicating compound listed in the Use of Intoxicating Compounds Act, or a
methamphetamine as listed in the Methamphetamine Control and Community Protection
Act. If you refuse to submit to chemical testing, your driving privileges will be suspended
for one year.
If you have a previous statutory summary suspension/revocation from Illinois, a suspension
for refusing a chemical test from another state, court supervision for DUI, or a conviction
for DUI within the last five years, you are considered a second offender and will have your
driving privileges suspended for three years for refusal of chemical testing or one year for
failure of chemical testing. A test refusal may be used as evidence against you. At the
50
time of arrest, the officer will take your driver’s license and, if valid, provide you with a
temporary receipt allowing you to drive for 45 days. The statutory summary suspension
begins on the 46th day from the notice date provided by the police officer. It will not be
terminated until you pay the reinstatement fee and your driving record is updated.
If you refuse to submit to chemical testing after being involved in a crash where serious
personal injury or death was involved, your driving privileges will be revoked for a minimum
of one year.
DUI Conviction
In addition to a statutory summary suspension/revocation, you may be convicted of driving
under the influence of alcohol, other drugs, and/or intoxicating compounds.
A DUI conviction results in a revocation of driving privileges:
• A first conviction results in a minimum one-year revocation.
• A second conviction within 20 years results in a minimum five-year revocation.
• A third conviction results in a minimum 10-year revocation.
• A fourth and subsequent conviction results in a lifetime revocation.
A person convicted of a DUI with a BAC of .16% or more or a DUI while transporting a child
under age 16 may be subject to enhanced penalties.
Before your driving privileges are restored, you must undergo an alcohol/drug evaluation,
successfully complete a rehabilitation or alcohol/drug education program, have an
administrative hearing with the Secretary of State, pay a reinstatement fee, and/or meet
other requirements. A DUI conviction also requires you to file Financial Responsibility
Insurance for three years.
If an Illinois resident is convicted of DUI or refuses to submit to alcohol/drug testing in
another state, the conviction or refusal will be reported to the Secretary of State’s office
and be reflected on the person’s driving record. The offender will face administrative
action against their driving privileges in the same way as if they were convicted of a DUI
or refused chemical testing in Illinois.
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID)
Any eligible Illinois driver who is a first-time DUI offender may apply for a Monitoring
Device Driving Permit (MDDP). An MDDP requires a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock
Device (BAIID) to be installed on their vehicle(s) at an approved installation site as a
condition of driving relief during a statutory summary suspension period. Unless declared
indigent, the DUI offender is responsible for all costs associated with issuance of a permit
and installation and monitoring of the BAIID.
The Secretary of State’s office monitors the BAIID throughout the duration of the permit.
The BAIID will alert the Secretary of State’s office if the driver attempts to start the vehicle
after drinking alcohol or tampers with the device.
51
A first-time DUI offender may choose not to petition for an MDDP and instead choose
to refrain from driving during the suspension period. If a DUI offender chooses not to
participate in the program and is subsequently caught driving a vehicle during the
suspension period, they are guilty of a felony.
Related DUI Offenses
Aggravated DUI
You may be charged with Aggravated DUI if you:
• Are involved in a death or personal injury crash while driving under the influence.
• Have received a third or subsequent DUI.
• Committed DUI while driving a school bus with children or operating a vehicle for hire,
such as a limousine.
• Committed DUI without a valid driver’s license, permit, or vehicle insurance.
• Received a DUI after a previous history of reckless homicide or Aggravated DUI involving
a death.
Illegal Transportation of Alcoholic Beverages/Open Container
It is illegal for anyone to drink alcoholic beverages in a vehicle. The driver and passengers
may be issued a traffic citation. Passengers on chartered buses used for nonschool
purposes, motor homes, mini motor homes, and limousines are exempt. It is illegal to have
alcohol in the passenger area of a vehicle if the container has been opened.
Operating a Motorboat While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
It is illegal to operate a motorboat under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating
compounds. Individuals involved in a motorboat crash where injuries or death occur
may lose their driving privileges for refusing to submit to chemical testing to determine
their BAC. Driving privileges may also be lost for submitting to testing that discloses a
BAC of .08; a THC level of either 5 nanograms or more per milliliter of whole blood or
10 nanograms or more per milliliter of other bodily substance; any amount of a drug,
substance or intoxicating compound resulting from the unlawful use or consumption of
a controlled substance listed in the Illinois Controlled Substances Act; any intoxicating
compound listed in the Use of Intoxicating Compounds Act; or any methamphetamine as
listed in the Methamphetamine Control and Community Protection Act.
Parental Responsibility
It is illegal for a parent or legal guardian to allow persons under age 21 to consume
alcoholic beverages or to fail to control access to alcohol on their private property or on
any property under their control, including a vehicle or water craft. If a death or personal
injury occurs as a result of consumption, the parent or legal guardian may face criminal
penalties.
52
Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License (for DUI, Aggravated DUI, Reckless
Homicide, or Leaving the Scene of a Fatal or Personal Injury Crash)
If you are convicted of driving while your license is revoked or suspended for the above
offenses, you will:
• Be subject to criminal penalties, including jail time.
• Have the suspension or revocation period extended.
• Have your vehicle seized and possibly forfeited.
An Illinois driver whose driving privileges have been suspended or revoked due to a
conviction for DUI, reckless homicide, or leaving the scene of a fatal or personal injury
crash is not allowed to drive a motor vehicle in ANY state. If a suspended or revoked
Illinois driver is arrested for driving on a suspended or revoked license in another state,
that arrest will be reported to the Secretary of State’s office.
Contributing to a DUI
It is illegal to allow someone to drive your vehicle if you know that person is under the
influence. If you are convicted of providing alcohol to a person under age 21, you may be
fined, be sentenced to jail, and have your driving privileges suspended.
Drivers Under Age 21
If you are under age 21 and convicted of DUI, you face the revocation of your driving
privileges for a minimum of two years for a first conviction.
If you are under age 21 and found to have any trace of alcohol in your system while
operating a motor vehicle, you will have your driving privileges suspended for a minimum
of three months.
All individuals under age 21 who are convicted of or receive court supervision for illegal
consumption, purchase, possession, or receiving alcohol as a gift will lose their driving
privileges regardless of whether or not they are operating a motor vehicle at the time of
the offense.
If your driver’s license was suspended before age 21, you will be required to successfully
complete a driver remedial education course. In addition, you may be required to submit to
a complete driver’s license examination to be re-issued a driver’s license.
Illinois’ DUI laws are constantly changing. For the most up-to-date information, refer to the
Secretary of State’s DUI Fact Book or visit ilsos.gov.
53
— Chapter 6 Study Questions —
2. If arrested with a blood-alcohol concentration of .08% or more, an individual’s driving
privileges will be suspended for at least six months.
True False
3. Alcohol is the single greatest factor in fatal motor vehicle crashes.
True False
4. A driver may be charged with Aggravated DUI if they
a. Are involved in a DUI crash resulting in death or personal injury.
b. Commit a DUI while driving a school bus.
c. Receive a DUI after a previous history of reckless homicide.
d. All of the above.
5. If a driver is arrested and refuses to submit to testing, driving privileges will be
suspended for three months.
True False
6. Drivers whose licenses have been revoked as a result of DUI must meet several
requirements, including an evaluation for alcohol and drug problems and paying a
reinstatement fee, to regain their license.
True False
7. It is illegal for persons under age 21 to drive with any trace of alcohol or drugs in
their systems.
True False
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Chapter 7: Traffic Violations/Crashes
If you are involved in or come upon a traffic crash:
• Stop your vehicle in a safe, well-lit public place that does not obstruct traffic, if able to
do so.
• Help any injured person if necessary or requested.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Warn other drivers by using emergency flashers and flares if available.
• Ask all those involved for their names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license
numbers, and license plate numbers.
Appearing in Court
If you receive a ticket for a minor traffic violation, a date for a court appearance will
appear on the face of the ticket. If you fail to pay the ticket or to appear in court on the
date indicated, a second court date may be set a minimum of 30 days later. The clerk of the
court will send a notice to you at your last known address, text, email, or given telephone
number if the county elects to establish a text or email system for notification. Failure to
appear on the second court date will result in the entry of an ex-parte (conviction) of the
violation, which will be reported to the Secretary of State and will be treated as any other
conviction. A driver whose driver’s license was suspended for failure to appear between
January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2024, will have their suspension cleared. If your
driver’s license was suspended for failure to appear prior to January 1, 2020, your license
will remain suspended until you resolve the ticket with the court and a reinstatement
fee is paid. If you are under age 18 and are required to appear in court, you must have a
parent/legal guardian present at the court appearance.
An Illinois driver ticketed in another state that is a member of the Non-Resident Violator
Compact has three options:
• Stay in the ticketing state and argue the case,
• Pay the fine, or
• Promise to comply with the traffic ticket, which allows the driver to continue the journey
and handle the ticket from home. Failure to comply with the promise to comply may
result in the suspension of their Illinois driver’s license.
Crash Reports
Regardless of fault, a crash report must be filed by the driver of a vehicle if the crash
involves death, bodily injury, or property damage of more than $1,500. If any vehicle
involved in the crash is uninsured, a report must be filed if property damage is more than
$500 or more. A report must be filed if the crash involves a school bus and results in any
property damage, personal injury, or crash. A report must also be filed if a crash occurs
within 50 feet of a school bus, causing personal injury or death to any person waiting to
board the school bus or who had just exited the school bus.
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A driver has 30 minutes to report a crash after it occurs. If drivers are involved in a crash,
they should notify the police immediately. Many towns and cities require a report if a crash
occurs within their limits. If an officer is not at the scene of the crash, a report must be
made at the nearest police station as soon as possible. If in a rural area, the county sheriff
or Illinois State Police must be notified. If the driver is unable to make the report and there
is a passenger, the passenger must make the report.
Drivers who fail to report a vehicle crash may be fined up to $2,500 and given a jail
sentence of up to one year.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
A driver convicted of leaving the scene of a crash, especially if personal injuries or
death occurs, is subject to criminal charges. In cases where a death or personal injury
has occurred, the Secretary of State’s office is required to revoke the individual’s driver’s
license. In cases where damage is more than $1,000, driving privileges will be suspended.
Unattended Vehicles
If you are involved in a crash that causes damage to an unattended vehicle (no driver or
passenger present) or other property:
• Stop your vehicle in an area away from traffic.
• Leave your name, address, phone number and license plate number on the vehicle or
property if the owner cannot be found.
• Notify police.
• Complete all required crash reports.
Safety Responsibility Law
If you are at fault in a crash that results in death, injury or property damage and do not
have liability insurance, you must also meet the requirements of the Safety Responsibility
Law. This law requires you to post security (a guarantee of payment) to cover damages
suffered by the injured party. The Illinois Department of Transportation determines the
amount of the security. If you do not post the required security(s), your driver’s license
may be suspended until the lawsuit is settled. The owner(s) of the vehicle involved in the
crash also may have their license plates/vehicle registration suspended. Driver’s license
or vehicle registration privileges will remain suspended until the person provides proof of
financial responsibility and maintains the insurance for a period of three years from the
date the proof is first filed.
Individuals convicted of mandatory insurance violations will lose their driving privileges
for a minimum of three months and be required to pay a $100 reinstatement fee, with no
driving permit available.
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Financial Responsibility Law
You are required to file proof of financial responsibility if any of the following apply:
• You receive an unsatisfied court judgment related to a crash.
• You are suspended under the Safety Responsibility Law due to an uninsured crash.
• You receive a court supervision for a mandatory insurance violation.
• You have been convicted of three or more mandatory insurance violations.
Proof of financial responsibility may include a certificate of insurance (SR-22), a bond,
or a deposit of securities (such as stock certificates). The SR-22 is filed directly with the
Secretary of State by the insurance company. The Secretary of State monitors insurance
coverage for a period of time specified by law. Failure to renew insurance coverage or
cancellation of insurance will result in a driver’s license suspension.
Crash Prevention Courses
If you are age 55 or over, you may receive a reduction in your motor vehicle liability
insurance if you successfully complete an eight-hour defensive driving course. Contact
your insurance agent to determine the amount of the reduction. Information about courses
is available at www.aarp.org/drive.
— Chapter 7 Study Questions —
1. Regardless of fault, a crash report must be filed by the driver of a vehicle if the crash
involves death, bodily injury, or property damage of more than $1,500 (or more than
$500 if a vehicle is uninsured).
True False
2. Before drivers can regain driving privileges after losing them for failure to pay for
damages caused by a crash, they must file proof of financial responsibility with the
Secretary of State’s office.
True False
3. Drivers who are involved in or come upon a traffic crash should stop their vehicle in a
safe, well-lit public place that does not obstruct traffic if able to do so.
True False
4. A driver has 30 minutes to report a crash after it occurs.
True False
5. Drivers convicted of a mandatory insurance violation will:
a. Lose their driving privileges for three months.
b. Lose their driving privileges for six months.
c. Lose their driving privileges for one year.
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6. Drivers are required to file proof of financial responsibility if:
a. They receive an unsatisfied court judgment related to a crash
b. Their license was suspended due to an uninsured crash.
c. They have been convicted of three or more insurance violations.
d. All of the above.
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Chapter 8: Driver’s License Revocation,
Suspension, Denial and Cancellation
Certain revocations, suspensions, denials, and cancellations can remain on an individual’s
driving record permanently.
Driving while a driver’s license is suspended or revoked will result in an extension of the
suspension or revocation period and may subject the driver to a period of incarceration.
More information on actions that may cause the suspension or revocation of driving
privileges is available in the Illinois Vehicle Code.
Revocation
A revocation is the indefinite withdrawal of driving privileges by the Secretary of State’s
office. To regain your driving privileges, you may be eligible to reapply for a license after a
minimum of one year unless otherwise noted.
The Secretary of State will immediately revoke the driving privileges of anyone who is
convicted of a moving violation that caused a crash and resulted in the death of another
person.
The Secretary of State’s office has the authority to revoke the driver’s license of a repeat
traffic offender. During the course of any revocation, your vehicle registration may be
suspended. Notice is given accordingly.
Other offenses for which your driver’s license may be revoked include, but are not limited
to:
• Aggravated DUI — Causing personal injury or death as a result of a DUI; having a prior
conviction of reckless homicide or aggravated DUI involving a death and committing a
DUI; receiving a third or subsequent DUI conviction; committing a DUI without a valid
license, permit, or vehicle insurance; or committing a DUI violation while transporting
children on a school bus.
• Aggravated Fleeing the Police — Driving away from the police when directed to
stop.
• Aggravated Reckless Driving — Driving resulting in great bodily harm, permanent
disability, or disfigurement to another person.
• Auto Theft — Stealing a motor vehicle or motor vehicle parts.
• Drag Racing or Street Racing — Illegally racing with another vehicle.
• DUI — Driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, other drugs, and/or intoxicating
compounds.
• Felony Offense — Using a vehicle while committing a serious crime.
• Fraudulent ID — Making or possessing the equipment to make, sell, use, attempt to
use, or assist another in using an unauthorized, non-governmental issued ID or driver’s
license.
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• Gang-related Activity — A gang-related offense involving the use of a vehicle or an
Illinois driver’s license.
• Leaving the Scene — Leaving the scene of a crash that killed or injured someone.
• Perjury — Giving false information to the Secretary of State.
• Reckless Conduct — Reckless behavior involving a vehicle that results in injury or
danger to another person.
• Reckless Driving — Conviction of three reckless driving offenses in 12 months or
driving that results in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to
another person.
• Reckless Homicide — Driving recklessly, resulting in the death of another person,
or being involved in a crash where a death occurred while driving on a suspended or
revoked license due to an Aggravated DUI.
• School Bus Violation — Conviction for overtaking or passing a school bus that results
in a crash where a death occurred.
Suspension
A suspension is the temporary loss of driving privileges. When the suspension is for a
specific length of time, you may regain your driving privileges after the suspension has
ended and you have paid a reinstatement fee. In some cases, your driver’s license will not
be returned until other requirements are met.
Offenses for which your driver’s license may be suspended include, but are not limited to:
• Automated Traffic Violations — Failure to pay five or more unpaid automated traffic
violations for violating a red-light signal or speeding or a combination thereof in a
municipality.
• Causing a Crash in a Construction Zone — Failure to reduce speed or change lanes
in a construction zone that results in property damage or injury to another.
• Child Visitation Abuse — Suspension upon receipt of a court order indicating the
driver has violated a child visitation order.
• Drug/Alcohol Test Failure — Failure of chemical testing following a DUI arrest
disclosing a BAC of .08% or more, a THC level of either 5 nanograms or more per milliliter
of whole blood, or 10 nanograms or more per milliliter of other bodily substance, or any
trace of a controlled substance or intoxicating compound.
• Drug/Alcohol Test Refusal — Refusal of chemical testing for drugs or alcohol after
being arrested for DUI in Illinois or another state.
• Drug or Sex Offense — Committing a drug or sex crime while operating or in direct
physical control of an automobile.
• Failure to Appear Violations — Failure to appear in court for any traffic citation
before January 1, 2020.
• Failure to Obey a Railroad-Crossing Signal — Conviction of a second violation for
failure to obey a railroad-crossing signal.
• Failure to Pay Child Support — Suspension for nonpayment of child support resulting
from a court order or by direction of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family
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Services.
• Failure to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle Using Audible and Visual Signals
(lights and sirens) — Failure to reduce speed and to change lanes away from a stationary
emergency vehicle that results in property damage or injury to another.
• Fraudulent Driver’s License/ID Application — Possessing, displaying, or attempting
to use an altered driver’s license or ID card; using another person’s license or ID card
or allowing another person to use the license; or submitting a fraudulent application or
allowing another person to submit documents for a fraudulent application.
• Illegal Possession, Consumption, Purchase of Alcohol, or Accepting Alcohol
as a Gift by a Person Under Age 21 if the Offense Occurred While the Person
Was an Occupant of a Motor Vehicle.
• Illegal Transportation of Alcohol — Illegal transportation of alcohol twice in 12
months if age 21 or older.
• Illegal Transportation Under 21 — Illegal transportation of alcohol while under age
21.
• Mandatory Insurance Violations — Failure to file Financial Responsibility Insurance
(SR-22) after receiving court supervision for driving without insurance or having three or
more tickets for driving without insurance.
• Mandatory Insurance Conviction – Driving without mandatory insurance.
• Railroad Crossing Violation — Nonpayment of five or more violations.
• School Bus Violations — Failure to stop for a school bus picking up or dropping off
children or failure to pay five or more violations of yielding to a stopped school bus when
recorded by a camera.
• Speeding in a Construction Zone — A second violation within two years of the
previous violation of speeding in a construction zone when workers are present.
• Traffic Crashes — Refusing or neglecting to report a traffic crash.
• Traffic Violations — Three traffic violation convictions during a 12-month period. (If
you are under age 21 at the time of arrest, two traffic violations within any 24-month
period.)
• Unauthorized Parking in a Space Designated for Persons with Disabilities.
• Uninsured Crashes — Being an at-fault driver in a traffic crash without insurance
where damages are owed.
• Zero Tolerance Violation — Having an alcohol concentration of greater than 0.00,
but less than 0.08, by a person under age 21.
Cancellation
Cancellation is the termination of driving privileges by formal action of the Secretary of
State’s office. Cancellation of a person’s driver’s license or permit will occur because of an
error or defect in the license or because the licensee is no longer entitled to the license.
Reapplication for a driver’s license may be made only after the terms of the cancellation
have been met.
Reasons for which your driver’s license may be canceled include, but are not limited to:
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• Medical Condition — Being medically or visually unfit to safely operate a motor
vehicle; failure to submit a medical or vision report when required; and failure to self-
admit to a medical condition that may interfere with the safe operation of a motor
vehicle.
• Re-examination Requirement — Failing to appear for a required re-examination;
failing a portion of the test required on a mandatory re-examination.
• Fraudulent Application — Committing a fraudulent offense in the making of a driver’s
license or ID card application.
• Ineligible — Being unentitled to the license or permit.
Denial
Denial is the temporary refusal of the privilege of applying for a driver’s license and, in
certain instances, an instruction permit. A denial can be entered on the driving record of an
individual under age 18 for conviction of one of the following offenses:
• Mandatory Revocation of Driving Privileges for Offenses Listed on Pages 58-59
— A denial for these offenses prohibits individuals from applying for a driver’s license
or an instruction permit until their 18th birthday.
• Driving Without a Valid Driver’s License or Permit — Such a denial forbids
individuals from applying for a driver’s license until their 18th birthday, while an
application for an instruction permit is still allowed. If the person already has a driver’s
license, the driving privileges granted by that license are reduced to an instruction
permit.
• Serious Moving Violation — The length of this type of denial is either nine months
or until the person’s 18th birthday, whichever is shorter. This denial only forbids an
application for a driver’s license. Instruction permit applications are still allowed. If the
person already has a driver’s license, the driving privileges granted are reduced to an
instruction permit.
• Crash Involving Bodily Harm or Death — The Secretary of State’s office may deny
issuing or renewing a driver’s license if the driver has been charged with an offense due
to a crash resulting in serious injury or death of another. Alcohol need not play a factor
in the crash.
Special Driving Permits
An Illinois driver whose driving privileges have been revoked or suspended may be allowed
to drive using special permits in certain cases.
• Restricted Driving Permit (RDP) — Allows driving only during certain times and
along specified routes for work-related or educational purposes, transporting a child
in the home to and from day care or an acceptable educational institution, or receiving
medical care or drug treatment. An RDP cannot be issued to a person under age 16.
• Monitoring Device Driving Permit (MDDP) — Allows a first-time DUI offender
serving a statutory summary suspension to operate a motor vehicle equipped with a
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID). Issuance of the MDDP and installation
of the BAIID allows drivers to legally operate a motor vehicle at any time of day or night
as long as they do not consume alcohol before driving and do not tamper with the BAIID
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unit. An MDDP cannot be issued to a person under age 18.
• Occupational Driving Permit (ODP) — Allows a professional driver whose license
has been suspended for three moving violations to operate a vehicle in conjunction with
employment. To qualify, the individual must drive for a living. This permit does not apply
to commercial drivers.
• Probationary License — Allows a driver age 21 and over whose license has been
suspended for three moving violations in a 12-month period to operate a vehicle during
the period of suspension. The permit is issued in conjunction with the completion of
a driver improvement course. This is issued in conjunction with a driver improvement
activity that grants full driving privileges during a period of suspension for drivers ages
21 and over.
• Family Financial Responsibility Driving Permit (FRP) — Allows a driver whose
license was suspended for nonpayment of child support or child visitation abuse to
operate a vehicle. This permit is only issued following a circuit judge’s order or upon
direction from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.
— Chapter 8 Study Questions —
1. An individual’s driving privileges may be suspended under which of the following
conditions?
a. Three reckless driving offenses in 12 months.
b. Drag or street racing.
c. Illegally transporting alcohol twice in 12 months by a person over age 21.
2. Driving privileges may be revoked for giving the Secretary of State false information.
True False
3. A driver’s license may be canceled if a driver is found medically or visually unfit to
safely operate a vehicle.
True False
4. Restricted Driving Permits can be issued to any suspended or revoked driver.
True False
5. A driver’s license may be suspended for:
a. Failure to obey a railroad crossing signal.
b. Possessing a fraudulent driver’s license.
c. Failure to stop for a school bus.
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d. All of the above.
6. A driver’s license may be revoked for:
a. Leaving the scene of a crash that injured or killed someone.
b. Giving false information to the Secretary of State.
c. Reckless behavior involving a vehicle that leads to the injury or death of someone.
d. All of the above.
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This eight-sided red sign means STOP. You must make a complete
stop at the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before entering
the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the
intersection. Yield the right of way to pedestrians and approaching
traffic. At an all-way STOP sign, wait for your turn. If the STOP sign
is a temporary sign erected by highway authorities, it should be
treated as if it were a permanent STOP sign. If the STOP sign is
handheld, stop until an authorized person, such as a school guard or
construction zone flagger, signals that it is safe to proceed.
This three-sided sign means YIELD the right of way. You must let all
traffic and pedestrians go before proceeding. YIELD signs are red
and white.
This round sign indicates a RAILROAD CROSSING ahead. RAILROAD
CROSSING signs are yellow with a black crossbuck “X” and the
letters “RR.” It is an advance warning sign that means a railroad
track will cross the roadway ahead. In rural areas, the sign may
be up to 750 feet before the railroad crossing. Slow down, look,
and stop if necessary. Roll down your vehicle windows and listen
to make sure other noises do not block out the sound of a train. If
a train is approaching, stop and wait. Never race the train to the
crossing.
This diamond-shaped sign means WARNING. It may be yellow,
yellow-green, or orange with black wording or symbols. This sign
warns you about hazards or possible hazards on or near the roadway.
Slow down and use caution when you see this type of sign.
Chapter 9: Roadway Signs
Along the roadway, there are many types of signs: regulatory, warning, and guide. Each
type of sign is identified by its shape and color. You will be asked to identify roadway signs
on the written driver’s license exam.
Shapes of Signs
These are the basic shapes of signs, each with a special purpose. Other shapes may be
used for special purposes.
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Colors of Signs
The color on a sign has a special meaning. It is important that you memorize the meanings
of the colors.
This five-sided sign is yellow or yellow-green with black symbols.
It means either SCHOOL ZONE or SCHOOL CROSSING. If the sign
shows two children walking, a school is nearby. If the sign shows
two children walking with a downward pointing arrow, you are at a
school crossing.
RED signs are regulatory signs and must be obeyed. They include
STOP, YIELD, DO NOT ENTER, or WRONG WAY.
Some BLACK and WHITE signs are regulatory signs and must be
obeyed. Others are used as route markers and are illustrated in the
Guide Signs section on page 75.
YELLOW is used for warning signs. These signs tell you of road
conditions and dangers ahead.
YELLOW-GREEN can also be used for warning signs. These signs
alert you to pedestrian and bicycle crossings, playground areas,
school bus stops, and school zones.
ORANGE is used for warning signs, usually found in construction or
maintenance zones along streets and highways. These signs alert
you to possible dangers ahead due to construction and maintenance
projects.
GREEN is used for guide signs. These signs tell you where you are,
which way to go, and the distance to upcoming destinations.
This three-sided sign is yellow with black letters and indicates a NO
PASSING ZONE. The sign will appear on the left side of a two-lane,
two-way roadway at the beginning of the area where “no passing”
pavement markings are also used.
Squares and/or rectangles can be used either as regulatory or guide
signs.
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Regulatory Signs
Regulatory signs instruct you on what to do and must be obeyed.
BLUE is also used for guide signs. These signs tell you about
services along the roadway.
BROWN is used for parks and recreation signs.
PINK may be used for traffic incident signing. These signs alert you
to possible dangers ahead due to unplanned traffic incidents, such
as traffic crashes and natural disasters.
Stop
An eight-sided (octagon) sign tells you to always make a full stop
at the stop line. If there is no stop line, stop before entering the
crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before entering the
intersection. Yield the right of way to pedestrians and approaching
traffic.
All-Way Stop
This sign means there are STOP signs at each approach to an
intersection. Traffic from all directions must stop. The first driver to
stop is the first driver to go. Other drivers must wait their turn. You
may also see 3-WAY, 5-WAY, or ALL-WAY signs underneath the stop
sign.
Yield
The three-sided (triangle) sign tells you to give the right of way
to all vehicles and pedestrians before proceeding. Slow down
to a safe speed and stop if necessary. When stopping, do so at a
marked crosswalk or before entering the intersection. You also may
see YIELD signs on expressway ramps. These signs may be posted
when there is no extra lane, where a driver may speed up to merge
with expressway traffic. There is no regulatory sign associated with
merging lanes; there are only advisory and warning signs. Late
merge is not typically used due to operational concerns.
Do Not Enter
This sign is posted on one-way streets and other roadways where
you are not allowed to enter. You may see this sign if attempting to
enter an expressway ramp in the wrong direction.
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Speed Zone Ahead
This sign warns you that there is a speed zone ahead. Be prepared
to alter your current speed.
Speed Limit
Some signs show maximum and minimum speed limits for all types
of vehicles on freeways and controlled-access highways. Driving
slower than the minimum speed limit is illegal unless necessary for
safety.
Wrong Way
This sign tells you that your vehicle is traveling in the wrong direction.
You will see this sign on expressway ramps a short distance past the
DO NOT ENTER sign. You will also see this sign if turning the wrong
way into a one-way street, alley or driveway.
No (Not Allowed)
Signs with a red circle and a red slash from the upper left to the
lower right mean a particular action is not allowed. The picture
within the circle shows what is not allowed.
No U-Turn
These signs are posted on divided highways or expressways. You
may see one where there is an opening in the divided highway
that leads to the other side. These openings are only for authorized
vehicles, such as police cars, ambulances, snow plows, construction/
maintenance equipment, and other emergency vehicles. Other types
of vehicles may not use this opening.
No Right/Left Turn
These signs indicate that turns are not allowed in the direction shown by the arrow.
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One-Way
These signs are used on one-way streets or driveways. You must
always go only in the direction of the arrow.
Two-Way Left Turn Lanes
Either of these two signs can be used to
indicate that a two-way left turn lane in the
center of a highway. Along with a sign, the
two-way left turn lane is marked with yellow
lines and white arrows.
No Turn on Red
This sign is used at some intersections. It tells you that a right turn
on a red light or a left turn on a red light at intersecting one-way
streets is prohibited. It may also show a red circle instead of the
word red.
Approaching a Divided Highway
This sign is used on approaches to a divided highway. It informs you
that a median separates both directions of traffic on the road you are
going to turn onto or cross.
Keep Right
This sign tells you where to drive when approaching traffic islands,
medians, or other obstructions in the middle of the roadway. You
must drive to the side indicated by the arrow.
Slower Traffic Keep Right
This sign is posted for those driving slower than the normal speed of
traffic on some multilane highways. It tells the slow driver to drive
in the right lane.
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Stop Here on Red
This sign is used when it is not clear where vehicles must stop at an
intersection with traffic signals.
Road Closed
This sign is used when the road is closed to all traffic. You may not
continue on the road.
Do Not Pass
This sign informs you that you may not pass
other vehicles. It is posted on some two-lane
roads where traffic goes in both directions.
There will also be yellow “no passing” lines
on the road.
Pass with Care
This sign informs you that you have reached
the end of the no-passing zone. You may pass
now only when it is safe.
Bike Lane
A bicycle lane is a designated traffic lane for bicyclists. These lanes
are marked by a solid white line that becomes a dotted line ending
before it reaches the corner. Bicycle lanes are sometimes painted a
bright green color to increase visibility.
Warning Signs
Warning signs alert you to conditions ahead. These signs are usually
diamond-shaped and warn about road hazards, construction sites,
schools, or other situations that require special attention. While most
warning signs are yellow, some communities may use fluorescent
yellow-green pedestrian, bicycle, and school signs. Construction and
maintenance warning signs are orange.
Pedestrian Crosswalk
This sign tells you there is a crosswalk. Crosswalks are not
always located at intersections, so you must watch both sides of
the street for pedestrians. Pedestrian crosswalk signs may also
be accompanied by a yellow flashing beacon located on the sign.
This beacon helps to increase driver awareness of an approaching
crosswalk and the potential presence of pedestrians.
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Other Special Crossings
These signs alert drivers in advance of special areas where vehicles and pedestrians may
be crossing.
School Signs
These signs warn you of school areas and crossings.
Stay alert and watch for children. Adult school
crossing guards, auxiliary police, or police officers
often supervise these street crossings when students
are going to and from school. School safety patrol
members may assist the crossing guards. Slow down
and stop when necessary.
The first two signs warn of school crossings ahead or
of school buildings or grounds next to the roadway.
The last two signs are posted at school crosswalks.
These two signs are used in areas where a reduced-
speed school zone has been established. The posted
speed applies only on school days when children are
present (usual school hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 4
p.m., but hours may vary), where a potential hazard
exists because of the children’s close proximity to
traffic, or when a light is flashing.
The use of wireless/cellphones is prohibited while
driving in a posted school speed zone.
Stop Ahead/Yield Ahead/Signal Ahead
These signs warn you of
approaching traffic control signals.
Although the traffic signal may not
yet be visible, the traffic signs are
close enough to require you to start
slowing down. Advance warning
signs are also used in high-speed
areas because of the longer
distance needed to slow down or
stop.
Stop Ahead Yield Ahead Signal Ahead
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Intersections Ahead
These four signs warn you of intersections ahead where traffic may exist or a right or left
turn may be required. A sign naming the intersecting road also may be posted.
Crossroad Side Road “T” Intersection “Y” Intersection
Right and Left Turns
Coming
Road Curves to the
Right and Left
Road Curves to the
Right
Right Turn Ahead
Turns and Curves
Certain signs are posted before turns and curves. The shape of the arrow tells you what
to expect. A small sign showing the maximum safe speed may also be posted below the
arrow.
Exit Ramp
These signs are posted at freeway and interstate exit ramps. This
sign shows the maximum safe speed at which a vehicle can be
driven on the ramp.
Winding Road
Ahead
Maximum Safe Speed
on Curve or Turn
Slippery Pavement
All roads are slippery and dangerous when wet. This sign warns
you of conditions that can cause you to lose control of your car.
Slow down when coming upon wet pavement because it takes
longer to stop.
40
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Downgrade
This sign warns you of a dangerous hill. It may be very long or
steep, have sharp curves. Slow your speed before starting down
the hill.
Narrow Bridge
This sign warns you that an approaching bridge has a narrow
roadway. A bridge width is generally 2 feet less than the width of
the approach pavement.
Reduction in Lanes
These signs are used on multi-lane highways to warn you of a reduction in the number
of traffic lanes in the direction of travel. Reduction in lanes can be temporary, due to
construction or maintenance activities, or permanent. Be prepared to change lanes or to
allow other vehicles to merge into your lane. Drivers of all vehicles may need to adjust
their speed and position to avoid a crash with another vehicle. When the road is not
congested, merge into the open lane as early as possible. During times of congestion, it is
advised that you use both lanes to advance to the lane reduction point and merge at that
location, alternating turns. This is also known as the “zipper merge”, as two sides merge
into one like a zipper.
Road Narrows
This sign warns you that a two-lane road suddenly narrows.
No Passing
This sign is used on two-lane, two-way roads. It warns you not to
pass. The sign is posted on the left side of the road at the beginning
of a no passing zone.
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Merging Lanes
This sign tells you that two lanes of traffic going the same direction
will soon merge into one lane. Be ready to either change lanes or
allow other traffic to merge into your lane. Merge signs may appear
on expressways just before expressway ramps. The driver on the
expressway should slow down to let the driver on the ramp merge.
Change in Direction
This sign warns you of a change in direction or narrowing of the
road. You may find several of these signs on the outside of a sharp
curve or on approaches to a narrow bridge.
Divided Highway
Divided highways have a center strip that separates traffic going in opposite directions.
The first sign is posted before a divided highway begins.
The second sign is posted just before the divided highway ends. Be careful nearing the
end of a divided highway.
Two-Way Roadway
This sign informs you that you are leaving a divided roadway and
approaching a two-way highway.
Construction and Maintenance Signs
Construction and maintenance zone signs alert you to changing conditions on the roadway
and help keep highway workers safe.
Workers Ahead
These signs are posted far enough ahead to give you time to adjust your vehicle speed
for any unusual conditions. When you see these signs, workers may be working close to
your traffic lane. Follow the signs and adjust your vehicle speed to the posted construction
zone speed limit, stay alert, and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and all traffic
barriers.
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Warning Cones, Drums, and Barricades
These devices are used to protect you from dangerous locations by marking a path for you
to follow in construction and maintenance zones. They also are used to warn motorists of
an existing hazard.
Warning Lights and Arrow Boards
Warning lights help draw your attention to drums and barricades
at night. Arrow boards warn the motorist of an upcoming lane
closure or caution when construction is ahead and the direction
to merge or move.
Flagger
This sign warns that there is a flagger ahead. Use caution when
approaching a flagger, as the individual will be working close to
traffic. Slow down and be prepared to obey the signals of the
flagger. You must stop if signaled to do so.
MOVE/MERGE
RIGHT
CAUTION
CONE DRUM BARRICADE BARRICADE VERTICAL PANEL
Portable Changeable Message Signs
Portable changeable message signs provide real-time information to help communicate
with users about road conditions and to provide guidance. Messages in these devices may
include slow or stopped traffic warnings, notice of lane or road closures, travel and delay
time information, changes in alignment of the road, or changes in road user patterns.
These may also be used to direct you to take alternate roads, take detours, or use both
lanes to a merging point to increase roadway capacity. It is important for you to follow the
messages on these devices.
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Other Special Signs
Slow-Moving Vehicle
A vehicle displaying this sign is moving slowly. You must slow down
and may pass only when safe and legal to do so.
Parking for Persons with Disabilities
Parking spaces with this sign are reserved for vehicles displaying
Persons with Disabilities license plates, parking placards and Disabled
Veteran license plates.
Guide Signs
Guide signs tell you where you are, what road you are on, and how to get to a specific
location. Most guide signs are rectangular; however, guide signs for county roads and route
markers on freeways are different in shape. The type of information given determines the
color of the sign.
Route Markers
These signs are used alone or with smaller signs. They direct you to specific roads.
Different routes have different markings. Examples of these types of signs include:
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Hazardous Materials Signs
Hazardous materials placard is a sign that indicates the presence and type of hazardous
material being transported on roadways. Placards use symbols, colors and text to
communicate the hazard and are placed on the outside of transport vehicles, containers,
or packages. Placards are required by the Department of Transportation and are useful to
emergency responders and other motorists in case of an accident. When approaching a
vehicle involved in a crash that has a hazardous materials placard, a driver should evacuate
as best you can by following the directions of emergency responders. If no emergency
vehicles are present, avoid the crash area and the report accident to emergency responders
in a safe location. Toxic environment exposure can manifest in a delayed manner. Seek
medical aid if feeling ill.
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— Chapter 9 Study Questions —
1. A merge sign means drivers should be prepared to change lanes or allow other traffic
to come into their lane.
True False
2. When approaching a stop sign that is not marked by a crosswalk, drivers should stop
their vehicles before entering the intersection.
True False
3. An orange sign means drivers should be alert, adjust their speed, and be prepared to
stop if necessary.
True False
4. A driver approaching a vehicle with a slow-moving vehicle sign should slow down
and only pass when safe and legal to do so.
True False
5. When approaching a railroad crossing sign, a driver should slow down, look, and
stop if necessary.
True False
6. A diamond-shaped sign warns drivers of possible hazards.
True False
RAILROAD
RAILROAD
CROSSINGS
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS (ENS)
Keeping Railroads
and the Public Safe
The mission of the Federal Railroad
Administration is to enable the safe,
reliable and efficient movement of
people and goods for a strong
America, now and in the future.
Please visit our website at
www.railroads.dot.gov
N
Scan the QR code to
learn more about ENS
at railroad crossings!
78
Chapter 10: Traffic Signals
and Pavement Markings
Traffic signals and pavement markings must be obeyed unless a police or traffic control
officer directs otherwise. A driver may never leave the roadway to avoid a traffic signal.
Traffic Signals
Traffic lights at intersections usually have three colors — red, yellow, and green — from
top to bottom or from left to right. At some intersections, however, there may be a single
red, yellow, or green light. Some traffic lights are steady, some flash and some are arrows.
When traffic control signals are not working, you must always treat the intersection as an
all-way stop by coming to a complete stop, unless directed otherwise by law enforcement.
You must then look and yield the right of way before entering an intersection.
Steady Lights
Red Light — Stop at the marked stop line. If there is not a marked stop
line, stop before entering the crosswalk. If there is no crosswalk, stop before
entering the intersection. Do not go until the light is green and the intersection
is clear. You may turn right at a red light unless there is a sign prohibiting it.
You also may turn left at a red light when turning from a one-way street onto
another one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. In both instances,
come to a complete stop and yield the right of way to oncoming traffic and
pedestrians before turning.
Yellow Light — The yellow light warns that the signal is changing from
green to red. When the red light appears, do not enter the intersection.
Green Light — You may go after yielding the right of way to any pedestrians
and vehicles in the intersection or crosswalk.
Flashing Lights
Flashing Red — You must stop, yield the right of way to traffic within
the intersection or crosswalk, and proceed when safe. This light is used
at intersections when a stop sign alone is hard to see or where additional
emphasis on the stop sign is needed. It also is used at railroad crossings to
warn of approaching trains.
Flashing Yellow — Proceed into the intersection with caution.
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Arrows
After yielding the right of way to traffic within the intersection or crosswalk,
you may go in the direction the arrow is pointing.
Red Arrow (constantly lit) — The constantly lit red arrow means you
cannot make the movement shown by the arrow until a green arrow appears.
There are two exceptions. You may make a right turn at a red arrow. You also
may make a left turn at a red arrow when turning from a one-way street onto
another one-way street that has traffic moving to the left. In both instances,
come to a complete stop and yield the right of way to oncoming traffic and
pedestrians before proceeding.
Yellow Arrow (constantly lit) — The constantly lit yellow arrow means the
green arrow is ending or the light is about to turn red.
Yellow Arrow (flashing) — The flashing yellow arrow means you may turn
in the direction the arrow is pointed after yielding the right of way to any
pedestrians and vehicles in the intersection or crosswalk.
Green Arrow — When the arrow is pointed upward, you may go straight
ahead only. When the arrow is pointed to the right, you may turn to the right.
When the arrow is pointed to the left, you may turn to the left.
Pedestrian Traffic Signals, Walk Lights, and Crossings
Pedestrians must yield the right of way to drivers by obeying traffic signals,
observing walk lights, and using crosswalks.
• Walk (walking person) — If you are facing the signal, you may cross the
roadway in the direction of the signal.
• Don’t Walk (flashing orange upraised hand) — Do not start to enter
the roadway. If you have partially completed crossing during the constantly
lighted walk signal, you may continue to a sidewalk or safety island.
• Don’t Walk (constantly lit orange upraised hand) — Do not enter the
roadway.
• Yellow Light (constant upraised hand) — Do not cross unless directed
by a pedestrian control sign or police officer.
Lane Signals
Special lights are sometimes used over each lane on highways and
expressways. They are used most often to change the flow of traffic during
certain hours of the day.
Red “X” — Never drive in this lane when the red “X” is displayed.
Yellow “X” — This indicates the lane signal is going to change to red. Leave
this lane safely before the red “X” appears.
Flashing Yellow “Arrow” — This indicates the lane may be used for
approaching and making a left turn.
Green Arrow — This indicates lanes may be used, but all other signs and
signals must be obeyed.
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Pavement Markings
Edge Lines
Solid lines along the side of the road tell you where the edge of the pavement is located.
Solid white lines are used on the right of the roadway edge. Solid yellow lines are used on
the left edge of divided streets or roadways.
White Lane Lines
• White lane lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
• Broken white lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Crossing the
line is only allowed when changing lanes or turning.
• Solid white lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Crossing a solid
white line requires special care and is discouraged.
• Solid double white lines separate lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. Crossing
a double solid white line is prohibited.
Yellow Center Lines
• Yellow center lines separate lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.
• Broken yellow lines separate single lanes of traffic moving in opposite directions.
Passing is allowed.
• Solid double yellow lines are used where traffic is moving in opposite directions. Two
solid lines mark the center of the roadway and may be crossed to make a left turn to or
from an alley, private road, driveway, or street.
Yellow No Passing Lines
No passing lines are solid yellow lines on roads where
traffic moves in opposite directions. The lines indicate
zones where passing is not allowed.
When the solid yellow line is on your side of the
center line, you may cross it to finish passing a vehicle
you already started to pass before the beginning of
the no passing zone. You may cross it to turn left into
or from an alley, private road, or driveway.
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When there is a solid and a broken yellow line
separating two lanes of traffic moving in opposite
directions, you may pass only when the broken yellow
line is nearest your lane.
Two-Way Left Turn Lanes
Two-way left turn lanes are marked with yellow lines and white arrows. A left turn may
not be made from any other lane when a turn lane is provided. A vehicle may not be driven
in the lane except when preparing for or making a left turn from or into the roadway or
when preparing for or making a U-turn when permitted by law.
White Stop Line
A white stop line is painted across a lane at an intersection. The line is usually 4 feet
before the crosswalk in an urban area. It shows where you must stop your vehicle for a
stop sign or red light. You must stop your vehicle before any part of it crosses the line.
White Crosswalk Lines
White crosswalk lines are painted across the entire width of the pavement. Sometimes,
the inside area is marked with white diagonal lines for added visibility. Pedestrians in
crosswalks have the right of way over vehicles. Crosswalks are sometimes in the middle
of the block, and a pedestrian crossing sign is located at the white lines.
Other Markings
• Yellow or white diagonal stripes are used to mark fixed obstructions.
• Solid white or yellow lines are sometimes used to channel traffic around a hazard.
• Curb markings, fire lanes and pavement markings may be designated as “No Parking”
areas by local authorities.
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Railroad Crossings
Railroad crossings are marked with one or more of the following special warning devices:
• Round Advance Warning Sign — A yellow sign with a black “X” and the letters
“RR” means a highway-railway crossing is ahead. The sign may be placed up to 750 feet
before of the railroad crossing.
• Pavement Markings — A solid yellow line before the crossing means no passing.
White stop lines on each side of the track show motorists where to stop when a train
is approaching. These markings also indicate that a highway-railway crossing is ahead.
• Railroad Crossbuck Sign — If a railroad crossing has more than one track, the
number of tracks is on the sign below the crossbuck. This is considered a yield sign, and
you must yield the right of way to any oncoming trains and railroad equipment.
• Flashing Light Signals — When lights begin to flash, you must always stop until the
train has passed and the lights have stopped flashing.
• Gates — Remain stopped until the lowered gates are raised and lights are no longer
flashing. Do not attempt to beat crossing gates as they are lowering or go around
lowered gates.
Tracks equipped with an automated railroad crossing enforcement system may record an
image of the vehicle license plate number, time, date, and location of any violation. Drivers
are subject to fines and possible suspension of their driving privileges for violations.
• Emergency Notification System (ENS) – ENS sign gives the public critical emergency
contact information at every highway-rail grade crossing. The information on the ENS
sign enables the public to reach the railroad responsible for the crossing and identify the
specific crossing in the event of an emergency.
REPORT PROBLEM
OR EMERGENCY
1-800-XXX-XXXX
X-ING 836 597 H
XYZ RAILROAD
83
— Chapter 10 Study Questions —
1. What should a driver do when approaching a traffic control signal that is not in
operation?
a. Come to a full stop and yield the right of way before entering the intersection.
b. If the intersection is clear, the driver does not need to stop.
c. Drive quickly through the intersection to get out of the way of other vehicles.
2. If a traffic light shows both a red light and a green arrow, a driver may not turn in the
direction of the arrow until the red light has changed.
True False
3. Drivers may pass on a two-lane roadway marked with a single solid yellow line on
their side of the center line.
True False
4. A railroad crossbuck sign should be treated the same as a yield sign.
True False
5. A driver approaching a flashing red light must stop, yield the right of way to traffic,
and proceed when safe.
True False
6. Drivers are allowed to leave the roadway to avoid a traffic signal.
True False
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Chapter 11: Safe Driving Tips
Driving is a privilege and a responsibility. A driver must obey all traffic laws and be
prepared to react to other drivers and driving conditions.
Drive Defensively
Always be prepared to react to another driver. Do not assume you know what the other
driver is going to do. If you cannot avoid a crash, remain calm and try to choose the least
dangerous situation.
Following Distances
Following a vehicle too closely, or tailgating, is the cause of most rear-end crashes. Use
the three-second rule to determine a safe following distance. To use the three-second rule,
select a fixed object on the road ahead, such as a sign, tree, or overpass. When the vehicle
in front of you passes the object, count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, etc.” Your
vehicle should not reach the object before the count of one-thousand-three. If this occurs,
you are following too closely.
The three-second rule also applies to your vehicle speed when you are on a good road
and during good weather conditions. If the road and/or weather conditions are not good,
increase your following distance even more.
If you are being tailgated, move to another lane or slowly pull off the road and allow the
vehicle to pass.
Vehicle Speed Approximate Feet Vehicle
Will Travel in 1 Second Three-Second Rule Distance
25 mph
35 mph
45 mph
55 mph
65 mph
70 mph
37 feet
52 feet
66 feet
81 feet
96 feet
103 feet
111 feet back
156 feet back
198 feet back
243 feet back
288 feet back
309 feet back
3 Seconds
85
Vehicle Speed
Driving too fast or too slowly can create a dangerous situation. Regardless of the posted
speed limit, weather and traffic conditions may make it necessary to drive more slowly.
Your speed should be adjusted for the conditions and match the flow of traffic, as long as
it does not surpass the maximum posted speed limit. Doubling your speed quadruples your
vehicle’s stopping distance.
Consider the following when deciding your speed:
• How quickly you can react physically and mentally.
• Type and condition of the roadway.
• Size of the tires — large, wide tires with good tread will stop a vehicle faster than
small, narrow tires with little tread.
• Condition of the brakes — newer brakes stop a vehicle more quickly than older, worn
brakes.
• Direction of the wind and how fast it is blowing — a strong tailwind can make it very
difficult to stop.
• Type of vehicle — vehicle design, weight distribution, suspension and shock absorbers
all affect how quickly a vehicle can stop.
Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving can impair your ability to drive safely, even if you do not fall asleep. A
driver often cannot react in time to apply brakes or steer away from a potential crash. You
should be properly rested and avoid drowsiness by stopping frequently when taking long
trips. Exercising your eyes by reading road signs or shifting the focus to different parts of
the roadway is also helpful.
Weather Conditions
Weather can create a driving hazard. Special care must be taken in fog, rain, high winds
and winter driving conditions.
Fog
While it is not advisable if you must drive in foggy conditions, take the following
precautions:
• Turn off the cruise control and increase your following distance.
• Slow down. If you see headlights or taillights, slow down even more. A driver may be
driving in the center of the roadway, stopped, or barely moving.
• Drive with your headlights set on dim or use fog lights.
• Do not overdrive your headlights. Stay within the limits of your vision in case it is
necessary to stop suddenly. If the fog is too dense, pull off the roadway and stop. Do
not drive at 5-10 mph.
• Use turn signals long before making a turn.
• Brake early when approaching a stop to warn other drivers.
86
Rain
Illinois law requires you to use your headlights when operating your windshield wipers.
When rain begins to fall lightly, water, dust, oil, and leaves cause the roadway to become
slippery. Take the following precautions when driving in rain:
• Turn off the cruise control and increase your following distance.
• Take special precautions on curves turns and while braking.
• Slow down to avoid hydroplaning. If your vehicle skids while hydroplaning, try to regain
control of the vehicle. If that is not possible, release the accelerator and ride out the
skid.
If you come across a roadway or viaduct that has been flooded due to heavy rain, do not
drive through the flooded area. It is impossible to determine the depth or current of the
water. Turn your vehicle around and find another route.
High Winds
Wind can be a difficult problem, especially for drivers of trucks, recreational vehicles,
campers and trailers-in-tow. Take the following precautions:
• Reduce your speed and make steering corrections when going from a protected area to
an open area and meeting large vehicles such as trucks and buses.
• Heavy rain or sleet often accompanies high winds. Be alert to wet or slippery areas and
plan for those conditions.
• The Illinois Tollway System bans the hauling of house trailers in high winds.
Winter Driving
Winter is the most difficult driving season due to possible ice, snow, lower temperatures,
and fewer daylight hours.
• Drive slower and increase your following distance. Roadway conditions may vary
depending on the sun, shade, or roadway surface.
• Turn off the cruise control if the pavement is wet, icy, or snowy.
• Remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, clear all windows and do not start driving
until the windshield is defrosted and clear. Be sure that you have nonfreezing windshield
washer liquid, and that the vehicle’s headlights and taillights are visible.
• Be sure the vehicle is maintained properly. Lights, brakes, windshield wipers, defrosters,
radiator, and other parts should be in good working order.
• Use snow tires and/or chains (where allowed). Snow tires give extra traction and chains
increase safety on snow or ice covered roads. Neither snow tires nor chains allow you
to drive on bad roads at normal speeds.
• Gently apply brakes in slow, steady strokes. This helps you determine how much vehicle
traction is available. Begin braking early when coming to an intersection or stop.
• Approach bridges, shaded spots, overpasses and turns slowly. They may remain icy
after the rest of the roadway is clear and dry.
• Plan ahead for winter driving. Carrying a blanket, food, and other survival equipment,
such as a shovel, in your vehicle can be helpful if stranded. If you do become stranded,
remain in your vehicle. Run the engine only for brief times and open the window to
prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. If possible, make sure the vehicle’s tailpipe is free
of snow and debris.
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Special Driving Situations and Hazards
Expressway Driving
Expressways, interstates, toll roads, turnpikes, and freeways are fast, multiple-lane roads
with maximum speed limits of 55, 65, or 70 mph. Be alert when driving on expressways
because speed and traffic volume are major concerns. Following are tips for safe driving
on expressways:
• When entering an expressway, you will usually find a speed-change lane. This lane
allows you to gain the speed necessary before merging. Signal and look for an opening
in the traffic, match traffic speed, and merge with traffic when safe.
• Check your rearview and side mirrors before changing lanes.
• Use your turn signals when making lane changes.
• Do not follow too closely. Allow plenty of distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
• The right lane is for slower traffic. The left lane is for faster traffic and passing. Do not
drive continuously in the left lane.
• Do not stop on the expressway. Pull off the road if you are experiencing a problem. Lift
your vehicle’s hood and turn on your hazard flashers. Never walk along the expressway.
• Freeway exits may be on the right or left. Be sure your vehicle is in the correct exit and
speed-change lanes and use your turn signals to indicate your intent to exit. When
approaching the exit, slow down to make the exit in the speed-change lane.
• If you miss an exit, go to the next available exit. Backing up on an expressway is against
the law.
• If lanes are reduced due to construction or maintenance, merge early into the open
lane if the road is not heavily congested. However, in dense, slow-moving traffic, it is
advised that you use both lanes to advance to the lane reduction point and merge at that
location, alternating turns.
88
Night Driving
Night driving is difficult because things may appear differently than in daylight. Glare from
lights may interfere with vision.
• Never overdrive your vehicle’s headlights, and always keep them clean and aimed
properly. Lights should be used from sunset to sunrise. Bright lights must be dimmed
500 feet before meeting an oncoming vehicle or 300 feet before passing a vehicle.
• Dim the dashboard lights, use the sun visor to avoid glare, and avoid using any other
light inside the vehicle.
• Use edge lines and center lines of the roadway as guides.
• Do not stop on the roadway. If you must stop, use of a red warning light is recommended.
Rural Intersections
Depending on the time of the year, it may be difficult to see other drivers. Some rural
intersections may be marked with warning signs (stop, yield, etc.), while others may not.
When approaching any rural intersection, slow down and look both ways before entering.
Curves
Slow down before entering a curve. Do not brake suddenly, as this may cause skidding or
locked wheels. Never drive over the center line.
Head-on Approaches
When a vehicle is approaching head-on in your lane, slow down, pull over to the right, and
sound the horn.
Skidding
Skidding occurs when tires lose traction. If your vehicle starts to skid, ease off the gas
pedal or brakes, steer into the direction of the skid until regaining traction, and then
straighten the vehicle.
Driving Off the Pavement
If your vehicle’s wheels drift off the pavement onto the shoulder, grip the wheel firmly,
ease your foot off the gas pedal, and brake gently. After checking for traffic behind you,
gently steer your vehicle back onto the pavement. Do not jerk the wheel to correct the
steering. This may cause the vehicle to drive into oncoming traffic.
89
Fire
If smoke appears, pull off the road. Turn off the engine, move away from your vehicle, and
call 911. Vehicle fires can be very dangerous. Do not fight the fire yourself.
Water Crashes
If your vehicle runs off the roadway into water but does not sink right away, try to escape
through a window. Because of differences in water pressure, you or your passengers may
not be able to open the car doors. If your vehicle does sink, move to the back seat area
where an air pocket usually forms. If possible, take a deep breath and exit from a rear
window.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is deadly. It is found in fumes produced any time a vehicle burns fuel.
The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness,
weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Carbon monoxide
symptoms are often described as “flu-like.” People who fall asleep in their vehicles or
leave them running in their garage can die before they have symptoms. Everyone in the
vehicle is at risk, particularly older people, infants, and individuals with cardiac, pulmonary,
or blood disorders.
It is recommended that you have a mechanic check your vehicle exhaust system every
year. Never run a vehicle inside a garage that is attached to a house.
Electricity
If you are in a crash that results in power lines falling on your vehicle, the danger of
electrical shock exists. You and your passengers should remain in the vehicle until help
arrives. If fire is an immediate danger, you must jump clear of the vehicle. When jumping
clear, do not allow any part of your body to touch the vehicle and the ground at the same
time. When jumping from the vehicle, land on both feet and hop or shuffle while keeping
your arms close to your body for a distance of 50 feet away from the vehicle.
Explosive Fire Hazard
Always shut off your vehicle’s engine when refueling. Never smoke around gas pumps. For
safety purposes, remain with the pump while refueling.
Equipment Failure
Crashes often happen when equipment fails. Equipment failures may include:
• Blowouts — A thumping sound may be a warning of a blowout. If this happens, ease
your foot off the gas pedal and keep a firm grasp on the steering wheel. Pull safely off
the roadway and check the tires. Do not brake suddenly.
• Loss of a Wheel or Tire — React the same as a tire blowout.
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• Steering Failure — If you suddenly have no control of the steering wheel, ease off the
gas pedal, turn on your vehicle’s emergency flashers, and allow your vehicle to come to
a slow stop. Brake very gently to prevent your vehicle from spinning. If your vehicle has
power steering or a locking steering wheel, do not turn off the ignition because your
vehicle will lose either the power steering or its ability to steer.
• Brake Failure — If the brake pedal suddenly sinks to the floor, pump it to build
pressure. If that does not work, use the emergency or parking brake. To slow down, shift
your vehicle into a lower gear.
• Headlight Failure — If your headlights fail suddenly, try using your vehicle’s emergency
flashers, parking lights and/or turn signals, and pull off the road. If your lights begin to
dim, drive to a service station or pull off the road and seek help.
• Stuck Gas Pedal — If your gas pedal becomes stuck, hook your toe under it to free it.
If it does not become free, shift your vehicle into neutral and brake gently to slow down.
• Blocked Vision — If your vision becomes blocked, roll down your side window to see.
Turn on your vehicle’s emergency flashers and pull your vehicle off the road.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving is the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or
is likely to endanger persons or property. A person doing any of the following may be
committing acts of aggressive driving and pose the risk of a crash:
• Speeding.
• Running red lights and stop signs.
• Tailgating.
• Passing on the shoulder of the road.
• Cutting off another vehicle.
• Slamming on brakes in front of a tailgater.
• Improper hand or facial gestures at other drivers.
• Yelling.
• Repeatedly honking the horn.
• Repeatedly flashing the headlights.
If you encounter an angry or aggressive motorist:
• Do not retaliate or in any way engage the other driver.
• Do not make eye contact.
• Keep your vehicle doors locked and windows up.
• Keep enough space between you and the vehicle in front of you to pull out from behind.
• Do not underestimate a driver’s potential for aggression.
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Stranded Motorists’ Safety Protocols
If your vehicle becomes stranded on a high capacity, low capacity or Illinois Tollway, follow
the safety protocols below.
A high-capacity roadway typically refers to a road designed to handle a large volume
of traffic efficiently. These roads often have multiple lanes, controlled intersections, and
various traffic management systems to accommodate high traffic flow. Examples include
highways and major urban arterials.
In contrast, a low-capacity roadway is designed for lower traffic volumes and may have
fewer lanes, fewer traffic control features, and a lower speed limit. These roads are
typically found in residential areas, rural regions, or secondary routes with less traffic.
For higher-capacity roads, follow these steps if your vehicle breaks down or you
have an emergency:
• If possible, pull over to the right shoulder or a safe location as far as possible to avoid
passing traffic.
• Remain in your vehicle and keep your seatbelt on
• Activate your hazard lights.
• Call 911 for assistance.
• Wait for an emergency responder to arrive and assist you.
For lower-capacity roads, follow these steps if your vehicle breaks down or you
have an emergency:
• If possible, pull over to the right shoulder or a safe location as far as possible to avoid
passing traffic.
• If it is necessary and safe to do so, exit your vehicle from the opposite side of oncoming
traffic and move away from your vehicle (stand on a sidewalk, behind a guard rail, or by
the edge of a field).
• If you cannot exit your vehicle safely, remain in your vehicle and keep your seatbelt on
• Activate your hazard lights.
• Call 911 for assistance.
For the Illinois Tollway, follow these steps if your vehicle breaks down or you
have an emergency:
• If possible, pull over to the right shoulder as far as possible to avoid passing traffic.
• Remain in your vehicle and keep your seatbelt on.
• Activate your hazard lights.
• Call *999 or 911 for assistance.
• Wait for Tollway Maintenance/an emergency responder to arrive and assist you.
92
— Chapter 11 Study Questions —
1. The road surface of a bridge may be dangerous in winter because it may remain icy
after the rest of the roadway is clear.
True False
2. If driving in fog, a driver should turn on the high-beam headlights to increase the field
of vision.
True False
3. Most rear-end crashes are caused by the vehicle in back following too closely.
True False
4. The three-second rule helps the driver determine a safe following distance.
True False
5. If a vehicle starts to skid on water (hydroplane), the driver should quickly apply the
brakes.
True False
6. If the front right wheel of a vehicle runs off the pavement, a driver should ease off
the accelerator, brake gently, and gently steer back onto the pavement.
True False
7. Drivers who become stranded in blizzard conditions should remain in their vehicles.
True False
8. When experiencing a tire blowout, the driver should apply the brakes quickly and pull
off the roadway to check the tire.
True False
9. If a vehicle starts to skid, the driver should ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer
in the opposite direction of the skid.
True False
10. Illinois law requires that headlights be on when atmospheric conditions require the
use of windshield wipers.
True False
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Chapter 12: Equipment For Safe Driving
To be a safe driver, your vehicle must be properly equipped and in good working condition.
It is illegal to drive a vehicle that may be a hazard to any person or property.
Required Equipment
Your motor vehicle must have the following working equipment:
• Brakes — Vehicles must have two brake systems and brakes on all wheels. The foot
brake must be strong enough to stop a vehicle traveling at a speed of 20 mph within 30
feet. The emergency or parking brake must be strong enough to stop the vehicle in 55
feet at the same speed. The emergency brake also must be able to hold the vehicle on
a grade or hill. Motor-driven cycles need only one brake.
• Headlights — Vehicles must have two headlights, which must be on from sunset
to sunrise and be used when rain, snow, fog, or other conditions require windshield
wipers. They also should be used when objects 1,000 feet away cannot be seen. Bright
lights must be dimmed 500 feet before meeting an oncoming vehicle or 300 feet before
passing a vehicle. Motorcycles and mopeds require a headlight, which must show
objects 500 feet ahead and be turned on whenever the vehicle is driven. No tinted or
smoked lenses are allowed on any vehicle.
• Taillights — Vehicles must have two red lights visible for 500 feet from behind. Only
one taillight is needed for mopeds and motorcycles.
• Turn signals — Vehicles, except motorcycles, trailers, and semitrailers, must have
right-and left-turn signals on the front and rear visible from 300 feet.
• License plate light — Vehicles must have a white light making the license plate
readable from 50 feet away and must be on when headlights are on.
• Parking lights — Front and rear parking lights are required for any vehicle stopped
on a highway at night. Some local communities may allow unlighted night parking on
streets.
• Safety belts— Passenger vehicles must have two sets of safety belts in the front seat.
Vehicles manufactured in 1965 or after may not be sold or operated in Illinois without
safety belts.
• Mirrors — One rearview mirror is required so you can see at least 200 feet behind
your car.
• Windows — All window glass must be approved safety glass. The windshield must
be free of snow, ice, moisture, and any defects that distort vision. All glass must be free
of obstructions between the driver and front or rear windows. Tinted windows are not
allowed on the front windshield. A 6-inch strip of tinting is allowed along the entire
length at the top of the front windshield.
• Wipers — Wipers must operate properly to clear ice, snow, and moisture.
• Horn — Vehicles must have a horn that can be heard from 200 feet. Sirens, whistles
and bells are allowed only on authorized emergency vehicles.
• Muffler — A muffler must be on the exhaust system to prevent excessive noise and
smoke. Cutouts, bypasses, and changes to the system to increase noise are illegal.
• Bumpers — Vehicles weighing 9,000 pounds or less and all recreational vehicles must
have a front and rear bumper. It is illegal to alter the suspension system of a vehicle to
94
lift the body from the chassis frame in excess of 3 inches. The horizontal line from the
front to the rear may not vary over 3 inches.
Restricted Equipment
• Projecting loads — Loads extending 4 feet or more to the rear of a vehicle must be
marked with a red flag during the day. At night or when visibility is poor, the vehicle
must have a red light visible for 500 feet.
• Back-up lights — Vehicles may have one or more backup lights that must emit a
white or amber light without glare; however, they may not be on when the vehicle is
moving forward.
• Spotlights — Only one spotlight is allowed on a vehicle. When approaching another
vehicle, it must be directed neither to the left nor more than 100 feet ahead. A vehicle
may not have more than four 300 candlepower lights burning.
• Flashing or moving lights — Flashing or moving lights other than turn signals or
hazard indicators are prohibited, except for police or designated emergency vehicles,
which includes fire protection district vehicles.
• Red lights — Red lights visible from the front are prohibited, except for police or
designated emergency vehicles.
• Running board lights — Limited to one on each side and must be non-glare white or
amber lights.
• Cowl or fender lamps — Only two lights are allowed and must be non-glare, white
or amber lights.
• Studded tires — Pneumatic tires with metal studs are illegal except for vehicles used
by mail carriers in rural areas between November 15 and April 1; vehicles displaying
Persons with Disabilities or Disabled Veteran plates between November 15 and April 1
(owners must live on a county or township road in an unincorporated area); agricultural
tractors or traction engines; agricultural machinery, including wagons, being used for
agricultural towing purposes; or road-building machinery operated at a speed of less
than 10 mph.
• Televisions or video — Televisions or video recording monitors that can be seen from
the driver’s seat are prohibited while the vehicle is in motion. Watching or streaming a
live video on a cellphone is a violation of Illinois law.
• Antique vehicles — Special rules for lamps, brakes, lights (head, tail, and stop lights),
and turn signals apply to vehicles more than 25 years old. For more information, call the
Secretary of State’s office at 800-252-8980 or visit ilsos.gov.
• Radar jamming device — Possession and use of radar jamming devices is prohibited
in all vehicles.
95
— Chapter 12 Study Questions —
1. Within how many feet is a driver required to dim the headlights before meeting
another vehicle?
a. 250 feet
b. 400 feet
c. 500 feet
2. Headlights must be lighted from sunset to sunrise.
True False
3. A car must have a horn that can be heard from a distance of 200 feet.
True False
4. Tinted windows are not allowed on the front windshield of a vehicle.
True False
5. TVs and video recording monitors that can be seen from the driver’s seat are
permitted when the vehicle is in motion.
True False
6. Turn signals must be visible for 300 feet.
True False
96
Chapter 13: Owning a Vehicle
Purchasing a Vehicle
If you purchase a vehicle in Illinois, you must follow certain laws and responsibilities.
Purchasing from a Dealer
A dealer must follow certain laws when selling a new or used vehicle. Within 20 days of
purchase, a dealer must send the following to the Secretary of State’s office:
• Application for Vehicle Transaction(s).
• Properly signed Certificate of Title or Certificate of Origin.
• Separate payments for title/license plate fees and sales tax on the vehicle. Sales tax
varies depending on the city or county where the vehicle is purchased.
Purchasing from a Private Owner
If you purchase or obtain a vehicle from someone other than a dealer within 20 days of
ownership, the Secretary of State’s office must receive the following:
• Application for Vehicle Transaction(s).
• Properly signed Certificate of Title in the seller’s name.
• Payment of title/license plate fees.
• Payment of Vehicle Use Tax. If the selling price is less than $15,000, the tax is based on
the model year of the vehicle. If the selling price is $15,000 or more, the tax is based
on the selling price of the vehicle. A RUT-50 tax form must be submitted along with the
correct tax payment to Illinois Department of Revenue.
Purchasing Out of State
If you purchase a vehicle out of state, the following items must be sent to the Secretary of
State’s office to obtain a Certificate of Title and license plates:
• Application for Vehicle Transaction(s).
• Payment of title/license plate fees. The amount is shown on the application.
• Certificate of Origin signed by the dealer if the vehicle is new, or a properly assigned
Certificate of Title if the vehicle is used. For both new and used vehicles, you must also
have a Bill of Sale.
• Recent vehicle registration ID card you are transferring license plates.
• Payment of sales or Vehicle Use Tax.
Vehicle Registration and Title
When you register a vehicle, you are providing the state with a record of that vehicle.
Registration allows you to legally use the vehicle on Illinois roadways. To register a vehicle
in Illinois, you must have an Illinois Certificate of Title. This document proves ownership.
All vehicles and mobile homes must have a Certificate of Title, whether or not they are
registered.
97
Registration fees must be paid annually. A $20 late fee is assessed on registrations
renewed more than one month past the expiration date. Vanity/personalized plates and
some other plate categories carry additional fees in addition to the following fees:
Passenger vehicle and B-truck (8,000 pounds or less) ...................................................$151
Motorcycle ........................................................................................................................$41
Autocycle...........................................................................................................................$71
Replacement plate (1) .........................................................................................................$6
Replacement plates (2) .......................................................................................................$9
Replacement sticker..........................................................................................................$20
Fees are subject to legislative change. For up-to-date fee information, visit ilsos.gov.
When you receive the license plates/sticker, you will also receive a vehicle registration ID
card that must be carried in your vehicle or with you when driving.
License Plate Requirements
Illinois law requires all passenger vehicles, trucks, and vans to display two plates, one on
the front and one on the rear. License plate frames should not cover any of the information
on the license plates. License plate covers are not allowed.
Motorcycles, mopeds, trailers, semitrailers and buses registered under apportionment
provisions must display one license plate on the rear of the vehicle.
Truck-tractors and apportioned straight trucks must have one license plate on the front of
the vehicle.
When a vehicle is sold, the license plates should be removed and kept by the seller. In
Illinois, license plates remain with the owner, not the vehicle.
Temporary Registration Permit
When you apply for registration for your vehicle, you may be issued a Temporary
Registration Permit (TRP). This permit must be displayed in the same place and manner as
a rear license plate. The TRP is valid for 90 days from the issuance date, although it may
be reissued if the license plates do not arrive within 90 days. Once you receive the license
plates, the TRP should be removed and replaced with the permanent license plates.
For your protection, the permit should be destroyed and discarded upon removal. TRPs
are available through Illinois licensed dealers, licensed remittance agencies, currency
exchanges, and DMVs.
License Plate Renewal
As a courtesy, about 60 days before your vehicle registration expires, you may receive a
reminder postcard, an email, and/or a renewal notice from the Secretary of State’s office.
98
You may renew online at ilsos.gov, by mail, by visiting a Secretary of State facility, or by
calling the toll-free number on the postcard and/or renewal notice. You also may renew at
certain banks, currency exchanges, credit unions, and remittance agencies.
You are encouraged to immediately affix the renewal sticker to the upper right side of the
rear license plate. If you do not immediately display the renewal sticker and the current
sticker has expired, law enforcement may stop your vehicle and issue a ticket.
Illinois law allows you to drive without an up-to-date vehicle renewal sticker displayed on
your license plate, provided you have a receipt in your vehicle from the Secretary of State
proving you purchased a sticker online before expiration, but have not yet received it. The
printed receipt is only valid as proof of registration for 30 days from the expiration of the
registration sticker currently displayed on the license plate.
Registration Renewal for Veterans
Members of the U.S. Armed Forces serving in active duty or as a reservist who can show
proof of service in a combat mission can have their standard vehicle registration fee
waived for the renewal period immediately following their return to the United States.
Proof must be shown at the time of registration renewal.
Vehicle owner(s) who are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces serving in a non-combat
capacity, a civilian employee of the Armed Forces or an employee of the U.S. Department
of Defense serving outside the United States but are a legal resident of Illinois have 45
days from their date of return to obtain or renew the vehicle registration.
Special License Plates
Personalized and vanity license plates are available for passenger vehicles, second division
vehicles weighing 8,000 pounds or less, motorcycles, vehicles operated by persons with
disabilities, recreational vehicles, recreational trailers, and antique vehicles. Please allow
at least 45 days from the time the order is placed to receive your license plates.
Reduced-fee License Plates
Senior citizens and persons with disabilities who qualify for the Benefit Access Program
(formerly known as Circuit Breaker) tax relief through the Illinois Department on Aging
are eligible for reduced license plate fees for passenger (standard license plates and
specialty license plates) and recreational vehicles. One discount per year is allowed. For
more information, please call the Illinois Department on Aging at 800-252-8966 or 888-
206-1327 (TTY).
99
Mandatory Insurance
All vehicles operated in Illinois must be covered by liability insurance, which covers
injuries or damages to other persons or their property caused by a vehicle crash. Vehicle
owner(s) are required to provide insurance information at the time of registration renewal.
Once the vehicle owner(s) sign the registration or renewal application, they affirm that
the vehicle is properly insured. Some vehicle classes are required to carry higher liability
coverage under other laws. The following are minimum liability insurance limits in Illinois:
• $25,000 for injury or death of one person in a crash.
• $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person in a crash.
• $20,000 for damage to property of another person.
Evidence of liability coverage must be carried by the motorist or in the vehicle and shown to
law enforcement officers upon request. Insurance companies must issue Illinois insurance
cards to policyholders or provide an insurance card that can be displayed on the driver’s
cellphone or other electronic device. Contact your insurance agent or company if you lose
your insurance card or the company fails to send one. Meanwhile, carry in your vehicle
some other form to prove insurance coverage, such as an insurance binder, the current
policy declarations page, a certificate of insurance, or the last insurance payment receipt,
until you receive your new card.
Enforcement of the law is managed through random computer checks by the Secretary of
State’s office and the issuance of traffic tickets. In addition, vehicle owner(s) must provide
proof of insurance to the Secretary of State’s office or the remitter when renewing their
license plates. This proof of insurance can be in a paper or electronic format. Failure
to carry the required insurance will result in fines, the inability to renew the vehicle
registration, suspension of driving privileges, and suspension of the vehicle registration
until proof of insurance is obtained. Providing false information to the Secretary of State’s
office or a remitter to renew the vehicle registration may result in criminal charges and
a fine. If you have trouble obtaining insurance, contact the Illinois Automobile Insurance
Plan for assistance.
Emissions Testing
In compliance with the Clean Air Act, certain vehicles in various areas of Illinois must
pass an Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) emissions test for the Secretary
of State’s office to renew the vehicle’s registration. Notice is provided to owners of the
scheduled test month and year for their vehicles. A vehicle emissions test is required in
the following counties: all of Cook, DuPage and Lake, and parts of Kane, Kendall, McHenry,
Will, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair. If you move from the area in which testing is required,
you must notify the Secretary of State. For more information, please call the Illinois Air
Team at 844-258-9071 or visit the Illinois Air Team website at www.illinoisairteam.com.
100
License Plates and Parking Placards
for Persons with Disabilities
License Plates
Illinois residents with a permanent disability may obtain Persons with Disabilities License
Plates for vehicles titled in their name. An immediate family member residing in the same
household may obtain two sets of plates if the qualifying person with disabilities does
not own a vehicle and must rely on someone else for transportation. Corporations, school
districts, limited liability companies, nursing homes, convalescent homes and special
education cooperatives transporting eligible persons may obtain these plates as well.
These plates DO NOT exempt the authorized holder from parking meter fees and time
limitations at parking meters.
Parking Placards
Disability parking placards may be issued to any Illinois resident with a physician-certified
disability. They may only be used in a vehicle if the disabled person is present and entering
or exiting the vehicle while parked at a designated accessible parking space. The four
types of disability parking placards are:
• Meter-Exempt Permanent —This placard is issued to persons with permanent
disabilities that significantly impair their ability to access a parking meter. There
are specific types of disabilities that meet this qualification. The placard allows the
authorized holder to park in spaces reserved for persons with disabilities, such as a
mall, grocery, or retail store. It exempts the holder from parking meter fees and time
limitations at meters exceeding a 30-minute time limit. Placards expire on the last day
of the holder’s birth month in 2026.
• Permanent — This placard is issued to persons with other permanent disabilities.
The placard allows the authorized holder to park in spaces reserved for persons with
disabilities, such as a mall, grocery, or retail store. The placard DOES NOT exempt the
holder from parking meter fees and time limitations. Placards expire on the last day of
the holder’s birth month in 2026.
• Temporary — This placard is issued to persons with a temporary disability. The placard
is valid for the length of time indicated by the certifying physician, not to exceed six
months if issued by the Secretary of State and 90 days if issued by a local municipality.
The placard DOES NOT exempt the authorized holder from parking meter fees and time
limitations.
• Organization — This placard is issued to organizations that offer free transportation
to persons with disabilities. The placard allows the authorized holder to park in spaces
reserved for persons with disabilities when transporting persons with disabilities. The
placard DOES NOT exempt the holder from parking meter fees and time limitations.
Placards expire on April 30, 2026.
For more information on any items discussed in this chapter, visit ilsos.gov or call 800-
252-8980.
101
Answers to Study Questions
Chapter 3
1. False (18)
2. True (19)
3. True (19)
4. True (16)
5. False (19)
6. True (16)
Chapter 4
1. True (27)
2. True (26)
3. b (26)
4. True (32-33)
5. True (25)
6. a (33)
7. False (28)
8. True (26)
9. True (31)
10. False (34)
11. c (30)
12. False (26)
13. b (25)
14. True (27)
15. True (22)
16. c (24)
17. False (29)
18. a (25)
19. True (30)
20. False (29)
21. True (35)
22. True (25-26)
23. False (21)
24. True (21)
25. a (33)
26. True (33)
27. False (33)
28. True (33)
Chapter 5
1. True (43)
2. False (42)
3. True (41)
4. True (45)
5. True (40)
6. d (43)
Chapter 6
1. True (49)
2. True (48)
3. d (51)
4. False (50)
5. True (50)
6. True (52)
4. True (81)
5. True (77)
6. False (77)
Chapter 11
1. True (85)
2. False (84)
3. True (83)
4. True (83)
5. False (87)
6. True (87)
7. True (85-86)
8. False (88)
9. False (87)
10. True (85)
Chapter 12
1. c (92)
2. True (92)
3. True (92)
4. True (92)
5. False (93)
6. True (92)
Chapter 7
1. True (54)
2. True (55)
3. True (54)
4. True (54)
5. a (55)
6. d (56)
Chapter 8
1. c (60)
2. True (59)
3. True (61)
4. False (61)
5. d (59-60)
6. d (58-59)
Chapter 9
1. True (72)
2. True (66)
3. True (65)
4. True (75)
5. True (64)
6. True (64)
Chapter 10
1. a (77)
2. False (78)
3. False (79-80)
102
— A —
Address, 6-11, 22, 54-55
Adult Driver Education Course, 5, 18
Adult Driver Education Provider, 5
Age Restrictions, 4
Aggravated DUI, 51-52, 58-59
Aggressive Driving, 90
Air Bags, 23
Alcohol, 9, 18-20, 40, 48-52, 58-62
Alleys, 15, 24, 26-27, 29, 34, 67, 79
Antique Vehicle, 94, 98
Appearing in Court (See Court Appearance)
Autocycle, 42, 97
Automated Traffic Signal/Light, 59
— B —
Beacon, 69
Behind-The-Wheel Training, 16-17
Benefit Access Program, 15, 98
Bicycles/Bicyclists, 23-24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 42-44,
65, 69
Blood-Alcohol Concentration (BAC), 48-51, 59
Blood Test, 49
Blowout (tire), 89
Bodily Harm, 21, 58-59, 61
Booster Seats, Child, (See Child Passenger
Protection Act)
Brakes, 21, 34, 42, 46, 84-85, 87-89, 92-93
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID),
50, 61
Bribery, 13
Bridges, 21, 28-29, 35, 40, 72-73, 86
Bumpers, 93
— C —
Cancellation, 10, 19, 56, 58, 60
Cannabis, 48-49, 58
Carbon Monoxide, 86, 89
Cellphone, 13, 18-19, 21-22, 25, 70, 94, 99
Cheating, 13
Child Passenger Protection Act, 23-24
Child Restraint (See Child Passenger Protection
Act)
Child Visitation Abuse, 59, 62
Citation (See Traffic Citation)
Classifications (Driver’s License), 4, 11, 16, 105
Commercial Driving School, 19
Construction Zones, 25, 29, 32, 59-60, 64-65, 69,
72-74
Controlled-Access Roadway, 29, 35, 42, 47, 67
Cooperative Driver Testing, 16-17
Court Appearance, 54
Court Supervision, 18-20, 49, 52, 56, 60
Crash Reports, 9, 54-55
Crosswalk, 25-27, 29, 35-36, 40, 64, 66, 69-70,
77-78, 81
Curfew, 18
Curves, 21, 24, 28, 30, 32, 71-73, 86, 88
Index
— D —
Deaf, 15
Death, 20, 24, 49-51, 54-55, 58-61, 99
Defensive Driving, 56, 84
Denial, 13, 58, 61
Disability (See Persons with Disabilities)
Disabled Parking (See Parking, Persons with
Disabilities)
Disabled Pedestrian, 27, 40
Disabled Vehicle, 45
Distracted Driving, 22-23
Driver Education, 5, 16-19
Driver Remedial Education Course, 20, 52
Driver’s License
Commercial, 4-5, 9, 12
Corrected License, 6-7, 9, 11
Duplicate License, 6-7, 11
Probationary License, 62, 105
Renewal, 8-9, 11, 13-15, 20
Driveways, 26-27, 29, 34-36, 41, 67-68, 79
Driving Exam, 13-14, 17
Driving Hazards, 29, 43, 45, 64, 69-70, 74, 80,
85-90
Driving Log, 16
Driving Off Pavement, 28, 88
Driving Record, 9-10, 13, 17-19, 48-50, 58, 61
Driving Under the Influence (DUI), 48-52, 58-59,
61
Drowsy Driving, 85
Drugs, 9, 40, 48-51, 58-59, 61
Dutch Reach, 30, 43
— E —
Electric Bicycle, 42-44
Electric Vehicle, 35
Electricity, 89
Emergency Contact Database, 11
Emergency Vehicles, 25-26, 29-31, 60, 67, 76, 93-
94
Emissions Testing, Vehicle, 99
Equipment, Vehicle, 14, 25, 46, 89, 93-94
Exemptions, 5, 100
Expressway, 42, 45, 47, 66-67, 73, 79, 87
— F —
Fees
Driver’s License, 6, 8, 10, 11-12, 13,
License Plates, 15, 96-100
Financial Responsibility Law (See Insurance)
Fire, 89
Fog, 85, 93
Following Distances, 42, 84-86
Forfeiture (See Vehicle Seizure)
Four-way Stop, 26
Fraud, 9, 58, 60-61
Freeway, 29, 67, 71, 75, 87
Funeral Processions, 25-26
103
—
G —
Graduated Driver’s License, 18-19
Gross Vehicle Weight, 4, 105
— H —
Hands-Free, 18-19, 22, 25
Hard of Hearing, 15
Hazard Signal, 32
Head-on Approaches, 88
Headlight, 25, 36, 42, 44-46, 85-86, 88, 90, 93
Headsets, 22, 25
High Winds, 85-86
Highway, 21, 24-27, 29, 33, 35-36, 40, 42-48, 64-
65, 67-68, 72-73, 79, 82, 93
Hitchhiking, 40
Horn, Vehicle, 47, 88, 90, 93
Horseback Riders, 47
Horsepower, 43
House Trailer, 36, 85
— I —
Illegal Transportation, 49, 51, 60
Implied Consent Law, 49
Infraction, 9, 18
Injury, 49-52, 54-55, 58-61, 99
Instruction Permit (See Permits)
Insurance, 14, 21, 50-51, 55-56, 58, 60, 99
Intersections, 24-32, 35-36, 40-41, 43, 64, 66, 68-
69, 71, 77-78, 81, 86, 88
Interstate, 24, 29, 45, 71, 87
Intoxicating Compound, 48-51, 58-59
— J —
Joggers/Walkers, 40
— L —
Lane Usage, 21, 24-26, 28-33, 35, 41-43, 45-46,
59-60, 65-66, 68-69, 72-74, 78-80, 83, 87-
88
Law Enforcement, 11, 18-19, 21-22, 26, 45, 49,
78, 98-99
Leaving the Scene of a Crash, 52, 55, 59
Left Turn, 15, 26-32, 41, 67-68, 71, 77-81, 93
Legal Guardian, 5, 16-17, 19, 51, 54
License Plates, 14-15, 35, 54-55, 75, 81, 92, 96-
100
Low-Speed Vehicles, 43-46
— M —
Maintenance Vehicle, 25
Maintenance Zone (See Construction Zone)
Marijuana (See Cannabis) 48
Medical Condition, 10, 23, 61
Medical Report, 9
Merge, 26, 66, 72-74, 87
Military, 10, 15, 74, 98
Mirrors, Vehicle, 14, 26, 32, 43-46, 87, 93
Monitoring Device Driving Permit (See Permits)
Mopeds, 22, 44, 93, 97
Motorboat DUI (See DUI)
Motorcycles, 4, 11, 14, 22, 41-42, 44, 93, 97-98,
105
Moving Violations (See Traffic Violations)
Muffler, 93
— N —
Name, 6-10, 22, 33, 54-55, 96, 100
Night Driving, 16, 18, 20-21, 40, 43-45, 61, 74, 88,
93-94
— O —
Obstruction, 25, 29, 35, 47, 68, 81, 93
Occupational Driving Permit (See Permits)
One-Way, 26-29, 31, 35, 66-68, 78-79
Organ/Tissue Donor Program, 10
Overpass, 35-36, 84, 86
— P —
Parent, 5, 16-19, 41, 51, 54
Parent-Teen Driving Guide, 16, 19
Parent-Teen Driving Contract, 19
Parental Access, 19
Parking, 15, 22, 34-36, 43, 60, 81, 93
Parking Brakes, 14, 46, 90, 93
Parking Lights, 36, 90, 93
Parking, Persons With Disabilities, 15, 35, 60, 75,
100
Passengers, 5, 16, 18, 20-23, 29-30, 33-34, 36,
40, 42-44, 51, 55, 89, 93, 97-98, 105
Passing, 26, 28-30, 33, 36, 41-43, 45-47, 59, 65,
69, 72, 74, 79-81, 83, 86-87, 88, 90, 91, 93
Pavement Markings, 14, 32, 65, 78-79, 81
Pedestrian Crosswalk (See Crosswalk)
Pedestrians, 23-24, 26-32, 34, 40-41, 64-66, 69-
70, 78-79, 81
Pedestrians With Disabilities (See Disabled
Pedestrian)
Permits
Family Financial Responsibility Driving
Permit, 62
Instruction Permit, 6, 11, 13, 16-17, 19, 61
Monitoring Device Driving Permit, 50, 61
Occupational Driving Permit, 62
Restricted Driving Permit, 20, 61
Temporary Registration Permit, 97
Persons With Disabilities, 11, 15, 27, 35, 40, 60,
75, 94, 98, 100
Police Vehicles (See Emergency Vehicles)
Portable Changeable Message Signs, 74
Projecting Loads, 94
— R —
Radar Jamming Device, 94
Railroad, 26, 28-29, 33-36, 40, 42, 59-60, 64, 78,
82
Rain, 85-86, 93
Real ID, 4, 6, 8-9, 12, 16
Reckless Conduct, 59
Reckless Driving, 26, 58-59
Reckless Homicide, 51-52, 58-59
104
Rental Vehicle, 4
Restricted Driving Permit (See Permits)
Restricted Local Driver’s License, 105
Revocation, 9, 48-50, 52, 58, 61
Right of Way, 26-27, 30-31, 33-34, 40-43, 64, 66,
78-79, 81-82
Right Turn, 26, 30, 31-32, 43, 45, 46, 67-68, 71,
78-79
Rotary (See Roundabout)
Roundabout, 32
Rural Intersections, 88
— S —
Safe Driver Renewal, 9
Safety/Seat Belts, 14, 18, 23-24, 36, 46, 93
Safety Responsibility Law (See Insurance)
School Bus, 4-5, 9, 11, 29, 32-33, 51, 58-60, 65
School Zone, 24-26, 29, 41, 65, 70
Scooters, 44
Selective Service, 11
Senior Citizens, 4-5, 15, 98
Serious Moving Violation, 61
Serious Traffic Offense, 19
Shoulder, 21-23, 28-29, 40, 88, 90, 91
Sidewalk, 34-36, 40, 43, 79, 91
Signals/Signaling
Arm/Hand Signals, 30
Left Turns, 31
Right Turns, 30
Signs
Color, 65-66
Construction, 73-74
Guide, 75
Maintenance, 73-74
Regulatory, 66-69
School, 70
Shapes, 64-65
Warning, 69-73
Skidding, 85, 88
Slow-Moving Vehicles, 46, 75
Snow, 67, 85-86, 93
Snowmobiles, 47
Speed Limit, 21, 24-25, 40, 44-46, 67, 70, 73, 85,
87, 91
Statutory Summary Revocation, 49-50
Statutory Summary Suspension, 49-50, 61
Stop Line, 26, 64, 66, 77, 80-81
Stop Sign, 26-27, 33, 36, 64, 66, 78, 81, 90
Stopping Distance, 42, 84
Stranded Motorists’ Safety Protocols, 90
Street, 15, 21, 26-29, 32, 34-36, 41, 43, 45, 65-70,
78-80, 93
Street Racing, 58
Suspension, Driver’s License, 9, 20, 33, 48, 54-
55, 58-59, 61, 62, 82, 85, 98
Suspension, Vehicle Registration, 33, 99
— T —
Taillight, 44, 46, 85-86, 93
Teen Driving (See Graduated Driver’s License)
Telescopic Lenses, 13
Televisions/Video, 22, 94
Temporary Registration Permit (See Permits)
Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (See Driver’s
License)
Text Messaging, 22
Tinted Windows, 93
Title, Vehicle, 42, 44-45, 96, 100
Tollway, 24, 60, 85-86, 91
Towed Vehicle, 45
Traffic Citation, 20, 51, 59
Traffic Safety School, 19
Traffic Violation, 10, 14, 19-21, 54, 58-62
Trains (See Railroad Crossings)
Trucks, 14, 23, 30, 44-45, 86, 97
Tunnel, 28-29, 35, 40
Turn Signal, 15, 21, 28, 30-32, 34, 45-46, 85, 87,
90, 93-94
Two-Lane Highway, 27-29, 33, 65, 69, 72
— U —
U-Turns, 32, 67, 80
Unattended Vehicle, 14, 45, 55
Urine Test, 22, 48-49
— V —
Veteran (See Military)
Visibility, 40, 69, 81, 94
Vision Screening, 13
Vision Specialist Report, 13, 61
Visual Signal, 25-26, 60
Voter Registration, 10
— W —
Walkers (See Joggers)
Water Crashes, 89
Watercraft DUI (See DUI)
Weather Conditions, 29, 42-43, 83-85
White Lines, 21, 69, 79-80
Windows, 64, 86, 89-90, 93
Windshield, 46, 86, 93
Windshield Wipers, 86, 93
Winter Driving, 47, 84-86
Wireless Device (See Cellphone)
Work Zone (See Construction Zone)
Written Exam, 13-14, 15-16, 64
— Y —
Yellow Lines, 28, 68-69, 79-81
Yield, 25-27, 29-34, 36, 40-41, 43, 60, 64-66, 70,
78-79, 82, 88
— Z —
Zero Tolerance, 52, 60
105
Driver’s License Classifications
Driver’s licenses are classified by the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the operator’s
vehicle. A driver seeking a basic license to operate a car in Illinois is issued a Class D
license. The following is a list of all classifications in Illinois:
• Class A — Any combination of motor vehicles with a gross combined weight rating
(GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, providing that the vehicle being towed is in excess
of 10,000 pounds. This does not include motorcycles or motor-driven cycles. (A CDL is
generally required.)
• Class B — Any single motor vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more or any
such vehicle towing another not in excess of 10,000 pounds. This does not include
motorcycles or motor-driven cycles. (A CDL is generally required.)
• Class C — Any motor vehicle with a GVWR of more than 16,000 pounds but less than
26,001 pounds, or any vehicle towing another with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less or
any vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or hazardous
materials that require placarding. This does not include motorcycles or motor-driven
cycles.
• Class D — Any motor vehicle with a GVWR of 16,000 pounds or less, except those
vehicles requiring a Class A, B or C driver’s license or an L or M motorcycle license.
• Class L — Any motor-driven cycle with less than 150cc displacement.
• Class M — Any motorcycle or motor-driven cycle.
Certain licenses can be issued under special circumstances. These are:
• Probationary License — Issued in conjunction with a driver improvement activity
that grants full-driving privileges during a period of suspension for a driver age 21 and
over. The license may only be issued to a person suspended for three moving violations
in a 12-month period and cannot be issued for more than three months.
• Restricted Local Driver’s License — Issued to a driver who lives in a community
with less than 3,500 residents and drives only within certain areas of the community.
106
ACCEPTABLE IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS
PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED
All acceptable documents presented for verification or proof must be valid (current and unexpired). One document may satisfy more than one Group.
Documents marked with (*) are accepted for REAL ID.
To ensure you have all the documents required for a REAL ID, visit https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html.
Group A—Written Signature
• Canceled Check (within 90 days prior to application)*
• Cooperative Driver Testing Program Certificate*
• Consular Card (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Court Order*
• Credit Card/Debit Card (major brand)*
• Driver’s License/ID Card (current) issued by an agency of the U.S.
government*
• Foreign Passport (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Illinois Driver’s License (current or expired less than one year)*
• Illinois ID Card (current or expired less than one year)*
• Medicare Card*
• Mortgage or Installment Loan Documents*
• Out-of-State Driver’s License/ID Card (current)*
• Social Security Card*
• Temporary DL/CLP/ID Card*
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Forms —I-551
(Permanent Resident Card); I-766 (Employment Authorization Card);
I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) with Valid Passport*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card*
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)*
• U.S. Passport (current* or expired less than 2 years)
Acceptable major brand credit cards (for signature verification
only) include American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard
and Visa.
Group B—Date of Birth
• Adoption Records
• Birth Certificate*
• Citizenship Certificate (N560/N561 )*
• Court Order (Change of birth date)
• Certified Grade/High School/College/University Transcript
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad*
• Illinois Driver’s License (current or expired less than one year)*
• Illinois ID Card (current or expired less than one year)
• Naturalization Certificate (N550/N570)*
• REAL ID Driver’s License/ID Card
• Social Security Award Letter (primary beneficiary only)
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Forms —1-551
(Permanent Resident Card); 1-571 (Refugee Travel Document); I-766
(Employment Authorization Card); I-797A (Notice of Action Status
Change); I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) with Valid Passport*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card (current or expired less than one
year)
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)
• U.S. Passport or Passport Card (valid with complete date of birth)*
• U.S. Visa
Group B documents must contain the applicant’s full name and
complete date of birth and must be verifiable. To be verifiable, it
must be possible to contact the regulatory authority to confirm
the documents authenticity. Documents marked with an [*] are
also accepted to prove legal presence.
Birth Certificates must be original or certified by a Board of
Health or Bureau of Vital Statistics within the U.S. or by the U.S.
State Department, U.S. territories or Canada. A certified copy is a
document produced by the issuing jurisdiction with an embossed
seal or an original stamped impression. Foreign passports and
birth certificates are accepted as proof if accompanied by any
other item in Group B.
Group C—Social Security Number
• Illinois Driver’s License Record (verified)
• Illinois ID Card Record (verified)
• Non-SSA-1099 Form*
• Pay stub or printed electronic deposit receipt bearing the applicant’s name and SSN*
• Social Security Award Letter (primary beneficiary only)
• Social Security Card (issued by SSA)*
• SSA-1099 Form*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)
• W-2*
Group C documents must contain the applicant’s name and full Social Security
number. If using an Illinois driver’s license or ID record, the Social Security
number must have been previously verified with the SSA.
An applicant applying for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) is not
required to present documents from Group C. Instead, the applicant must
sign a declaration on the TVDL application that the applicant is, at the time of
application, ineligible to obtain a Social Security number.
Group D—Residency
• Official Electronic Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application)
• Bank Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Canceled Check (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Certified Grade/High School/College/University Transcript*
• Consular Card (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Credit Card Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application) Visa, Mastercard,
American Express or Discover*
• Credit Report (issued by Experian, Equifax or TransUnion, dated within 12 months of
application)*
• Deed/Title, Mortgage, Rental/Lease agreement*
• Insurance Policy (homeowner’s or renter’s)*
• Letter on Official School Letterhead (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Medical Claim or Statement of Benefits (from private insurance company or public
government agency, dated within 90 days of application)*
• Official mail received from a State, County, City or Village or a Federal Government
agency (must include first and last name of applicant and complete current address)
may include — Homestead Exemption Receipt; Jury Duty Notice (issued within 90
days of application); Selective Service Card; Social Security Annual Statement; Social
Security Disability Insurance Statement; Supplemental Security Income Benefits
Statement; Voter Registration Card*
• Pay Stub or Electronic Deposit Receipt*
• Pension or Retirement Statement*
• Phone Book, produced by a phone book publisher*
• Report Card from Grade/High School or College/University*
• Tuition invoice/official mail from college or university (dated within the 12 months
prior to application)*
• Utility Bill (electric, water, refuse, telephone land/cell, cable or gas, issued within 90
days of application)*
Group D documents must contain the applicants full name and residence
address. Documents in Groups A, B or C that contain the full name and
residence address also may be used for Group D. Two residency documents are
required for REAL ID.
Only Consular Cards from Brazil, Columbia, Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico
as those countries issue cards in compliance with the Consular Identification
Document Act.
After review of all identification presented, Secretary of State
management has the right to accept or refuse any document.
Both lists—acceptable and unacceptable—are subject to change.
Documents marked with (*) are accepted for REAL ID.
To ensure you have all the documents required for a REAL ID, visit https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html.
Unacceptable Documents
• Bond Receipt or Bail/Bond Card
• Business Card
• Check Cashing Card
• Club/Fraternal Membership Card
• College or University ID Card
• Commercially produced (non-State
or unofficial) ID Card
• DHS Card or documents
(Department of Human Services)
• Fishing License
• HFS Card
(Healthcare and Family Services)
• Handwritten ID/Employment Card
• Hunting License
• Illinois Concealed Carry Card
• Illinois FOID Card
• Instruction Permit/Receipt
• Insurance Card
• International Driving Permit
• Library Card
• Personal Mail
• Traffic Citation (Arrest Ticket)
• Unlicensed Financial Institution Loan
Papers
• Vehicle Registration
• Video Club Membership Card
• Wallet ID
Printed by authority of the State of Illinois by union employees. September 2023 — 1 — DSD X 173.13
• Canceled Check (within 90 days prior to application)*
• Cooperative Driver Testing Program Certificate*
• Consular Card (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Court Order*
• Credit Card/Debit Card (major brand)*
• Driver’s License/ID Card (current) issued by an agency of the
U.S. government*
• Foreign Passport (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Illinois Driver’s License (current or expired less than one year)*
• Illinois ID Card (current or expired less than one year)*
• Medicare Card*
• Mortgage or Installment Loan Documents*
• Out-of-State Driver’s License/ID Card (current)*
• Social Security Card*
• Temporary DL/CLP/ID Card*
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Forms — I-551
(Permanent Resident Card); I-766 (Employment Authorization
Card); I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) with Valid Passport*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card*
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)*
• U.S. Passport (current* or expired less than 2 years)
Acceptable major brand credit cards (for signature verification only)
include American Express, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard and Visa.
Group A — Written Signature Group C — Social Security Number
Group D — Residency
Group B — Date of Birth
U n a c c e p t a b l e D o c u m e n t s
• Adoption Records
• Birth Certificate*
• Citizenship Certificate (N560/N561)*
• Court Order (Change of birth date)
• Certified Grade/High School/College/University Transcript
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad*
• Illinois Driver’s License (current or expired less than one year)*
• Illinois ID Card (current or expired less than one year)
• Naturalization Certificate (N550/N570)*
• REAL ID Driver’s License/ID Card
• Social Security Award Letter (primary beneficiary only)
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Forms — I-551
(Permanent Resident Card); I-571 (Refugee Travel Document); I-766
(Employment Authorization Card); I-797A (Notice of Action Status
Change); I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) with Valid Passport*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card (current or expired less
than one year)
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)
• U.S. Passport or Passport Card (valid with complete date of birth)*
• U.S. Visa
Group B documents must contain the applicant’s full name and com-
plete date of birth and must be verifiable. To be verifiable, it must be
possible to contact the regulatory authority to confirm the document’s
authenticity. Documents marked with an [*] are also accepted to prove
legal presence.
Birth Certificates must be original or certified by a Board of Health or
Bureau of Vital Statistics within the U.S. or by the U.S. State Department,
U.S. territories or Canada. A certified copy is a document produced by
the issuing jurisdiction with an embossed seal or an original stamped
impression. Foreign passports and birth certificates are accepted as
proof if accompanied by any other item in Group B.
• Illinois Driver’s License Record (verified)
• Illinois ID Card Record (verified)
• Non-SSA-1099 Form*
• Pay stub or printed electronic deposit receipt bearing the applicant’s name and SSN*
• Social Security Award Letter (primary beneficiary only)
• Social Security Card (issued by SSA)*
• SSA-1099 Form*
• U.S. Military Driver’s License/ID Card
• U.S. Military Service Record (e.g., DD214)
• W-2*
Group C documents must contain the applicant’s name and full Social Security number. If
using an Illinois driver’s license or ID record, the Social Security number must have been
previously verified with the SSA.
An applicant applying for a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) is not required to
present documents from Group C. Instead, the applicant must sign a declaration on the
TVDL application that the applicant is, at the time of application, ineligible to obtain a
Social Security number.
• Official Electronic Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application)
• Bank Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Canceled Check (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Certified Grade/High School/College/University Transcript*
• Consular Card (current or expired less than 2 years)
• Credit Card Statement (dated within 90 days prior to application) Visa, Mastercard, American
Express or Discover*
• Credit Report (issued by Experian, Equifax or
TransUnion, dated within 12 months of application)*
• Deed/Title, Mortgage, Rental/Lease agreement*
• Insurance Policy (homeowner’s or renter’s)*
• Letter on Official School Letterhead (dated within 90 days prior to application)*
• Medical Claim or Statement of Benefits (from private insurance company or public
government agency, dated within 90 days of application)*
• Official mail received from a State, County, City or Village or a Federal Government
agency (must include first and last name of applicant and complete current address)
may include — Homestead Exemption Receipt; Jury Duty Notice (issued within 90 days
of application); Selective Service Card; Social Security Annual Statement; Social
Security Disability Insurance Statement; Supplemental Security Income Benefits
Statement; Voter Registration Card*
• Pay Stub or Electronic Deposit Receipt*
• Pension or Retirement Statement*
• Phone Book, produced by a phone book publisher*
• Report Card from Grade/High School or College/University*
• Tuition invoice/official mail from college or university (dated within the 12 months prior
to application)*
• Utility Bill (electric, water, refuse, telephone land/cell, cable or gas, issued within 90
days of application)*
Group D documents must contain the applicant’s full name and residence address. Docu-
ments in Groups A, B or C that contain the full name and residence address also may be
used for Group D. Two residency documents are required for REAL ID.
Only Consular Cards from Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala and Mexico as those coun-
tries issue cards in compliance with the Consular Identification Document Act.
After review of all identification presented, Secretary of State
management has the right to accept or refuse any document.
Both lists — acceptable and unacceptable — are subject to change.
ACCEPTABLE IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS
PHOTOCOPIES ARE NOT ACCEPTED • Documents marked with ( ) are accepted for REAL ID.
All acceptable documents presented for verification or proof must be valid (current and unexpired). One document may satisfy more than one Group.
To ensure you have all the documents required for a REAL ID, visit https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html.
• Bond Receipt or Bail/Bond Card
• Business Card
• Check Cashing Card
• Club/Fraternal Membership Card
• College or University ID Card
• Commercially produced
(non-State or unofficial) ID Card
• DHS Card or documents
(Department of Human Services)
• Fishing License
• HFS Card
(Healthcare and Family Services)
• Handwritten ID/Employment Card
• Hunting License
• Illinois Concealed Carry Card
• Illinois FOID Card
• Instruction Permit/Receipt
• Insurance Card
• International Driving Permit
• Library Card
• Personal Mail
• Traffic Citation (Arrest Ticket)
• Unlicensed Financial Institution
Loan Papers
• Vehicle Registration
• Video Club Membership Card
• Wallet ID
Printed by authority of the State of Illinois by union employees. September 2024 — 1 — DSD X 173.13
Documents marked with ( ) are accepted for REAL ID.
To ensure you have all the documents required for a REAL ID, visit https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html. **
**
Driver and Vehicle Online Services
Driver Services
Address Change
DL/State ID - mailing status
Driver’s License Reinstatement
Driving Abstract
Duplicate Driver License or ID
card
Emergency Contact Database
Safe Driver Renewal
CDL Appointment
Driver Education Course
Completion Check
Vehicle Services
License Plate Renewal Pick-A-
Plate
Title and Registration Status
Refund Request
License Plate Renewal Email
Notice
License Plate Replacement
Program
Print Your Registration Renewal
Notice
Benefit Access Control Number
Search
For more information about our online services,
please visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s website at:
ilsos.gov
NOTES
NOTES
Many DMV services can be completed online
without a visit to a DMV facility.
ILSOS.gov
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Illinois DMV written test?
The Illinois (IL) DMV written knowledge test typically consists of 20–50 multiple-choice questions. The exact number varies — check the official Illinois DMV website for the current format.
What topics are covered in the Illinois driver's handbook?
The Illinois driver's handbook covers traffic laws and regulations, road signs and signals, safe driving practices, right-of-way rules, speed limits, DUI/DWI laws, and vehicle operation requirements specific to Illinois.
Is the Illinois driver's handbook available in Spanish?
Many states provide their driver's handbook in multiple languages. Download links for all available languages — including Spanish, Russian, Chinese, and more — are listed above on this page.
How do I pass the Illinois DMV written test?
Study the official Illinois driver's handbook thoroughly, then take free practice tests at DMVSOS.com to reinforce what you've learned. Most test-takers who study the full handbook and complete several practice tests pass on their first attempt.