What is a State of Illinois Driver’s License? A driver’s license is an official document which states that a person may operate a motorized vehicle such as car, truck, motorcycle, or bus on a public roadway. It also serves as a standard form of picture identification. Driver’s licenses are classified according to the type of vehicle it would be used for. Class D driver’s license, which is the standard license, allows residences of Illinois to drive non-commercial passenger cars and trucks. A Commercial Driver’s License or CDL is classified as Class A or Class B driver’s license. Moreover, Class C, Class L, which is for the motor-driven cycle, and Class M, which is for motorcycle, licenses are available. Under special circumstances, one might apply for a Probationary or Restricted Local Driver’s License. For all practical purposes, most people would need a Class D driver’s license.

This guide will show you the basic steps of how to get an Illinois driver’s license and information about the licensing requirements, age restrictions, accepted identity documents, fees, and test requirements. This guide also contains some information specific to first-time drivers, new Illinois residents, non-citizens, and people with certain medical conditions. To be eligible to apply for an Illinois license one must not have a suspended, revoked, or canceled license. In addition, one needs to have a clean driving record, with no outstanding traffic ticket debts, and not deem unfit or unsafe to drive.

Requirements

To apply for an Illinois driver’s license, you’ll need to visit the Department of Motor Vehicles, also called DMV, in a Secretary of State Facility. Make sure to bring your official documents that include your written signature, social security number, date of birth, and proof of your residency. You will need documents that prove your residency in the state of Illinois. There is a full list available on the cyberdriveillinois website, which is the official website for Illinois DMV. Though many people choose to present documents such as bank statements, canceled checks, social security cards, passports, birth certificates, and pay stubs. Any document you present must be original and include your current address. It is important to note that school ID, library card, or business card are not acceptable documents.

Then you must pass the vision screening, written exam, and driving test. Finally, you must pay any necessary new license fee based on your age group. 

Fees

18 to 20 years old: $5

21 to 68 years old: $30

69 to 80 years old: $5

81 to 86 years old: $2

87 years old and older: Free

Graduated Driver License (GDL) program

Teenagers must complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program as a prerequisite for a regular license. New residents may use their prior state’s license up to ninety days and will be required to obtain a new Illinois license after that. They must surrender their out-of-state license during their application process, and likely not be required to take the driver’s test again, though it is possible. Non-residents are likely to fill out Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL), unless they are eligible for social security number. Those with visual, physical, or mental health conditions will be required to complete a medical report.

What should you expect when applying for an Illinois Driver’s License? You will be required to take a vision screening and a written exam. It is a good idea to read the Illinois Rules of the Road before you take the exams. Illinois Rules of the Road is available online, and it contains information about driver’s license, traffic safety, and general information about Illinois traffic laws and ordinances. It’s especially important to read the chapter on the driver’s license exam to find out what you would need to know about the written exam and the road test. The written exam takes place at your local Secretary of State Office.

The Road Test

You may be required to take a road test. You will need to own or borrow a car to take the road test. It is also important that the vehicle is properly insured, and you bring a copy of the insurance at the road test. You can book your Illinois road test by calling or visiting your local Secretary of State Office. It is helpful that you schedule your road test in advance. The most important skill you need to show in a road test is your ability to drive safely. Among others, you will need to show seat belt safety awareness, parking skills, and the ability to understand and obey traffic signals. The bottom line is if you prepare for the process involving getting an Illinois Driver’s License, it should not be a stressful experience.

Pass your Illinois Drivers License Test on your first try.