Illinois instruction permit requirements

The Illinois permit path

The Secretary of State requires proper identification, a completed application, the appropriate fee, vision screening and the written exam for the classification you seek.

• Study the current Illinois Rules of the Road.
• Gather the identification documents required for your credential type.
• Apply for the Class D instruction permit and pay the current fee.
• Pass the vision screening and Class D written exam.
• Practice only under the supervision rules that apply to your permit.
• When eligible, complete the road-test and licensing requirements.

Age 15–17 has additional requirements

Applicants age 15 through 17 must generally be enrolled in, or within 30 days of starting, an approved driver education course. A permit issued under age 18 is valid for two years and must be held at least nine months before licensing.

Adult permits are different

For applicants age 18 and older, an Illinois instruction permit is valid for one year. First-time applicants age 18, 19 or 20 who have never completed qualifying driver education must complete the six-hour Adult Driver Education Course before obtaining the driver license.