How To Get Your Illinois Driving License

If you reside in Illinois, it’s a state law to have a driver’s permit or license to get behind the wheel. The requirements can differ depending on your age, but there’s no need to worry. At Joyce’s Driving School, we have helped countless students across Illinois navigate the licensing process. We’ll break down exactly what you need to do and help ensure you’re prepared to drive. Understanding the requirements can help prevent any delays while we help you become the safest driver possible.

Getting Your Permit For Younger Drivers

Before you have an official license, younger drivers (ages 15-17) can apply for a learner’s permit. You must be at least 15 years old to apply and pass a written examination. Our driving school program in Illinois covers the pertinent information your child needs to pass the exam. It’s easy to schedule an appointment online at the Illinois Secretary of State. Parental consent is required, and the permit must be held for nine months. Fifty hours of documented driving is needed, 10 of which must be at night. Practice can be only with another licensed adult under 21 years old.

Complete Driver Education Courses

If you are a new driver under 18, you must enroll in an approved driver education course and pass a vision and written test as required by the Illinois Secretary of State. The Driver’s Ed course comprises 30 hours of in-classroom instruction and a minimum of six hours of behind-the-wheel training. Illinois requires teens aged 16-18 to take driver’s education. These programs are offered at public and private schools, or parents can enroll with instruction through a state-approved driving school. Below are a few driving elements covered with a behind the wheel session if you’re wondering how to pass your driving test in Illinois.

• An introduction to the rules of the road
• Defensive driving techniques
• What to do in emergencies
• How to handle different types of weather

Steps For Obtaining An Initial License In Illinois

The Illinois initial driver’s license is a slightly limited version of the adult driver’s license. This is for teenagers 16 or 17 years old who aren’t quite ready for a full license. Although it allows you to drive on your own, there is a particular curfew you must follow, and there are restrictions. More specifically, there are limits on how many passengers who are not family members can be in the car as you gain experience. Other than holding your initial permit for nine months, you must also have a parent or guardian sign for financial responsibility. Requirements for an initial driver’s license include proper identification, your learner’s permit, a 50-hour driving log, completion of a driver’s education program, and passing a driver’s test. Having an operable vehicle with working turn signals and lights is also essential when you take your test.

Getting Your Driver’s License For Adults In Illinois

If you are between 18 to 20 years old and have already completed driver’s education, you don’t need to take the 6-hour Adult Driver’s Ed course. People over 21 can choose whether or not to take driver’s education courses, but it’s recommended for a refresher or for seniors who may benefit from it. Many adults who enroll in driver’s ed might not have been driving for months or even years. Getting help from a professional ensures students of all ages are prepared for the road. One of the biggest things our driving school teaches is how to be more confident. If you’re feeling nervous about getting behind the wheel again, we help make the transition easier.

What To Expect On An Illinois Road Test

During a driving test, you’ll have to perform several tasks proving you can operate a vehicle safely. Other than operating turn signals correctly, lights, and shifting gears, there are demonstrations of everyday driving scenarios you’ll be asked to complete. These include backing up slowly, moving in a straight line, changing lanes, and obeying all the traffic rules. You’re allowed to take the test up to three times a year.

Joyce’s Driving School Can Help You Get Your Driver’s License In Illinois

Getting your Illinois driver’s license can be daunting, but with the help of Joyce’s Driving School, it doesn’t have to be. Our experienced instructors are here to provide you with quality driving lessons that will give you an edge when taking the written and on-road tests required for obtaining your license. Please don’t hesitate to discover more about how we help drivers of all ages be prepared for safe driving. Contact us for more information or if you have any questions about our program.