Like most states, Illinois
has implemented the Graduated Drivers License program (GDL) to provide teenage drivers
with a structure to safely build up their driving skills before receiving their full driver's license
at 18 years of age. Getting behind the wheel is an exciting time for young drivers—it means more freedom and independence! The rules around when someone is allowed to drive vary by state, so it’s important to know the requirements for where you live.
Not sure where to start? Luckily, we've created this guide to driving ages in the Land of Lincoln.
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What is the driving age in Illinois?
In Illinois, you can apply for an instruction permit
at 15 years of age, and you can get a restricted license when you turn 16. You must be 18 to apply for a fully unrestricted license. What is the Graduated Drivers License program in Illinois?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of death among young drivers. In order to combat this, Illinois implemented its Graduated Drivers License program (GDL) in 2008 with the goal of reducing the number of accidents among teenage drivers. The GDL program permits young drivers to slowly gain driving experience over a period of time. Generally, most programs include three stages:
Instruction permit stage: Supervised driving
Restricted license stage: Limited unsupervised driving
Full license stage: Unrestricted standard driver’s license
How to get your instruction permit in Illinois
All drivers under the age of 18 must adhere to Illinois’s GDL program, which is administered by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office. The program ensures that all young drivers pass through certain steps on the way to becoming fully licensed—your requirements will vary depending on how old you are when you start the process.
Before you head down to hour nearest Driver Services
location to get your instructional permit, here are the requirements you need to meet: You must be at least 15 years old
Complete an application form and have your parent’s permission (if under 18)
If you’re 15 to 17 years old, you must provide proof of enrollment in a driver's education program
Pass a vision test and applicable written test
Once you complete these steps, you’ll be granted an instruction permit.
Instruction permit restrictions
Your instruction permit is valid for two years and there are certain restrictions that apply. A driver with a permit is only allowed to drive with a fully-licensed adult over 21 present. During this time period, you have to log a minimum of 50 hours of driving practice (10 if these need to be at night) with appropriate supervision.
How to get your restricted driver’s license in Illinois
Okay! You’ve got your permit and logged your hours. The next step is applying for your restricted driver’s license.
Here are the requirements you’ll need to satisfy:
You must be at least 16 years old
Have successfully held an Illinois instruction permit for at least nine months
Present proof that you successfully completed a driver’s education program
Pass all driving and knowledge tests
Key Takeaway Remember to bring proper identification and all completed forms and proof of education to the Driver Services office. Making an appointment is recommended!
Restricted driver’s license regulations
You did it! Now that you have your restricted driver’s license, you may now drive alone—with certain limitations.
During the first 12 months or until you turn 18 (whichever comes first) you may only have one passenger under the age of 20 unless it’s your sibling or child. You are also not permitted to drive between the hours of 10 pm (11 pm on Fridays/Saturdays) and 6 am. You must also have a conviction-free record for six months prior to turning 18.
It’s vital to note that in Illinois, all drivers under the age of 19 are not permitted to use a cellphone in any capacity when driving, except under emergency circumstances. Once you turn 18, you’ll be eligible for a fully unrestricted driver’s license.
How to save on car insurance in Illinois
With your license in your hand, you’re ready to take on the world. But before you hit the road, make sure you’re protected with the best car insurance possible by shopping with Jerry
, the trusted super app
for car owners. Adding a teen driver to your car insurance
can be expensive, but Jerry will make sure you get the coverage you need at a price that fits your budget. Simply download the app, provide a few simple details, and within minutes you’ll have access to a selection of competitive quotes chosen from among the nation’s best insurance providers. Signing up or switching over can be done entirely through the app.
The average Jerry user who switches on the app saves over $800 a year on their car insurance costs!
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