How to Get Your Illinois Instruction Permit

Step by step

1. Enroll in driver education

   At 15 to 17, get proof from your driver education provider that you're enrolled in, or will start within 30 days, an approved course. From 17 and 3 months, you may apply without it. (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 16)

2. Gather your documents

   Bring documents proving:

   • Your legal name and date of birth
   • Your Social Security number
   • Your Illinois residency
   • Your signature

   (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 6–7)

3. Pass the vision and written exams

   Vision of at least 20/40 (with or without glasses) and the written exam on signs, signals, markings and traffic laws. You get three tries within a year of paying. (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 13–14, 16)

4. Practice with a qualified adult

   Drive with your instructor, or a parent, guardian or responsible adult 21+ with a valid license and a year of experience, in the front passenger seat. (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 16)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the Illinois Secretary of State, Driver Services website before you go.

Rules while you have a instruction permit

• No driving Sunday to Thursday from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., or Friday and Saturday from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. (local curfews may differ). (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 18)
• No phone use at all while driving, not even hands-free, except to call police, a health care provider or emergency services. (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 18)
• One passenger in the front seat, and no more passengers in back than there are seat belts. (Illinois Rules of the Road, p. 18)