8/6/2023
Illinois is one of the most populated and dynamic states in the U.S. and has a large network of roads on which you cannot drive if you do not have a valid driver's license. If you still don't have yours and want to get it, here we tell you how to take the driving test and the necessary procedures.
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How to get a driver's license in Illinois?
Whether you have just moved to Illinois or have never obtained your driver's license as a resident, this process is not complicated. As with other procedures, you must gather the required documentation and take the appropriate tests.
If you are 18 years old, you can get your license in Illinois in a few easy steps:
File the paperwork
The first thing to do is to locate the nearest Secretary of State's driving center and show up to do the paperwork. You will need a birth certificate, signature, confirmation of residency and SSN. You can find the list of documents on the Illinois Secretary of State's Office website.
Complete the instruction course
If you are a first-time driver aged 18-20, you must show the certificate of completion of the driver's education course. When you are 21, this training is optional, but the state recommends it.
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On this point, here are some tips:
- New drivers can do the instruction online and it should last at least 6 hours.
- If you have any proof that you have already done this course in high school, you don't need to do it again.
- When you complete the training, you will receive an email from the Secretary of State with your certificate. Bring this paper with you when you apply for your license.
Pass the scheduled exams
Be prepared for the vision test, written test and driving test. Use the Illinois Rules of the Road manual to study. Depending on your driving experience, you may not have to take any assessments.
Here are some recommendations:
- If you feel anxious about the test, review the driving area.
- Practice with someone you don't usually drive with to pretend you are with the instructor.
- If you have a valid driver's license from any other state, such as Texas or California, there is no need for a written or practical test.
Take your picture
After the tests, you will be photographed. This picture will go on the corner of your ID so that you will be recognized.
Pay for the paperwork
To obtain your Illinois license, you can pay with cash or credit card. The cost may vary depending on the type of license and your age. For example:
- It's free if you're over 87 years old.
- Those between the ages of 21 and 68 must pay $30.
- There is a reduced rate of $5 for people 18-20 and 69-80.
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Wait for it to arrive at your home
Upon completion of the process, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 90 days. Regarding this:
- You can use the temporary permit to drive and identify yourself.
- The Department of Homeland Security will accept your expired ID and this paper to board an airplane.
- Your official driver's license will arrive in 15 business days. If you do not receive it, you can call 217-782-7044 or visit https://www.ilsos.gov/dlstatus.
How do I get an Illinois driver's license as a minor?
When you are not a legal adult, the steps to get your license may vary slightly.
Enroll in a driver's education course
This can be done at age 15 at any state-approved facility. Most public schools provide this instruction.
Apply for a learner's permit
For this procedure you can present your SSN or passport and a certified copy of your high school transcript. The latter verifies your signature, address and date of birth. You must present your current or 30-day road course registration and pay $20 for this document.
Pass the visual and written test
If you do not pass the vision test, you will have to wear glasses or contact lenses to obtain your permit. Even if you don't pass the written test the first time, you can take it again on another day. The learner's permit is valid for 2 years.
Record 50 hours behind the wheel
You must fill out the correct form to record these hours of driving accompanied by an adult (21+). Of those 50 h, 10 must be at night and whoever goes with you will attest by signing the form. Also:
- You cannot drive from 10 pm to 6 am Monday-Thursday and 11 pm to 6 am Friday-Sunday.
- If you commit an infraction, such as using a cell phone while driving, you will have to wait 9 months to apply for an Illinois driver's license.
Apply for your Illinois license
With your 50-hour record, course certificate, a signed permission slip from your representative and documents, you can apply for a driver's license. Use the same ID you presented for the learner's permit and apply after you turn 16. If your learner's permit has expired, you must pay $30.
Pass the driving test
This can take place at a closed circuit or on the street. Remember to bring your car registration and insurance. If you pass, you get an initial license.
Obey the restrictions
For the first 12 months with the initial license you may drive with only one person under 20 who is not your family. Once you turn 18 and have not committed any violations in the last 6 months, you will have a full Illinois driver's license.
Español: Examen de manejo en Illinois para la licencia de conducir