Illinois Drivers Education

Testing and Preparing to Drive

The ISOS certifies several Adult Driver Education programs and others for teens that typically are offered through respective Illinois public schools. Any adults who have never been licensed and want to obtain driving privileges in Illinois must complete a state-certified Adult Driver Education course.

Enrollees can complete the courses in person in a classroom setting or online. The certified adult driver education training provider can choose the training format. Upon successful completion, students receive an official certification of successful completion. That certification enables the holder to apply for driving privileges at a local ISOS service facility.

• The application process includes a vision and written testing that the applicant must pass. The applicant also must pass a road test, which a certified third party can give. If the applicant successfully passes all tests and meets other requirements of the ISOS, he or she will be issued a valid driver’s license.
• Drivers who want to maintain their driving privileges must attend regular driver safety classes and renew their licenses periodically. In Illinois, drivers must renew their licenses every four years. Renewal requires completing some paperwork and ensuring that the driver has all of the necessary documents, such as proof of insurance, valid registration and proof of identity.
• Drivers who fail to renew their licenses or otherwise violate traffic rules are subject to possible license suspension or revocation. Drivers need to follow driving rules and regulations to ensure safety on Illinois roads.
• Drivers should also know the penalties for driving without a valid license. In Illinois, this can include fines, jail time and even vehicle impoundment. It is essential to stay informed about state regulations and laws so drivers can follow them and remain compliant.
• In addition to following the rules, staying alert and aware of the road is key to remaining safe. Drivers should do their best to pay attention to other vehicles, obey posted speed limits and be mindful of traffic lights, stop signs and other signals. By being proactive about safety, drivers can help reduce the risk of accidents on Illinois roads.
• Finally, drivers should also keep their vehicles regularly maintained and serviced. A consistent maintenance schedule can help ensure that the vehicle runs safely and complies with state laws. Drivers should also check their tires for proper inflation, replace windshield wipers when necessary, and regularly check oil levels to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.

By taking these simple steps to stay informed, safe, and legal on the roads of Illinois, drivers can be sure they are doing their part to help keep our roads safe.  Thank you for being a responsible driver. Safe travels!

Graduated Driver License

The ISOS Graduated, Driver License system lays out the system through which new drivers can obtain driving privileges with an unrestricted Illinois driver’s license. Starting at age 15, the graduated licensing system enables teens to obtain a learner’s permit. The permit allows teen drivers to operate a motor vehicle during daylight hours and on a limited basis during the night while supervised by a licensed adult driver.

• The initial licensing phase starts for teen drivers ages 16 or 17 and whose parent or guardian certifies has completed 50 hours of daytime driving and at least 10 hours at night. The teen also must complete a state-certified driver education program. Once done, the parent or guardian must accompany the teen to the ISOS facility when the teen applies for an initial driver’s license.
• From age 18 through 20, the ISOS enables motorists to obtain full driving privileges with no restrictions. Those not completing an approved driver education program must complete a six-hour course for adult drivers before applying for and obtaining full driving privileges in Illinois.