Understanding the rules of the road in Illinois can be difficult, but this is especially true for teenagers. There are specific laws and regulations in place to help keep new drivers safe, referred to as the Graduated Driver Licensing Program. In this blog, we’ll break down the laws that apply to teens of different ages.
Teen Driver’s License Laws
15 Years Old: Your Learner’s Permit in Illinois
Can a 15 year old drive without a license in Illinois? Technically, the answer is yes, but they are required to have a learner’s permit. During the permit phase, drivers can only operate vehicles while supervised by an adult aged 21 years or older. The adult must have a valid driver’s license.
Drivers should not be convicted of any traffic violations while they have their permit, underage alcohol use, or acquire court supervision. If a teen driver receives a moving violation conviction, they must wait 9 months before applying for a license. If under 18, a driver with any unresolved traffic citations can’t obtain a license until resolving said citations. If caught driving without a permit, they will be unable to obtain a license before they turn 18.
Drivers on a permit must be enrolled in an approved driver education course. Their permit is valid for up to 2 years. They must hold the permit for 9 months (minimum) and complete at least 50 hours of driving time to apply for a license.
Drivers under 19 cannot use a cell phone or wireless device while driving except in emergency situations. There are also specific nighttime driving restrictions.
Drivers between 15-17 years of age cannot drive during the following times (although local curfews may vary):
- Sunday-Thursday between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Friday-Saturday between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Anyone under 18 who violates nighttime driving rules may have their driving privileges suspended.
16-17 Years Old: Initial Licensing Stage
Driving rules for 16 year olds in Illinois and 17 year olds are somewhat less restrictive than they are for permit holders. However, there are still regulations to keep in mind.
To obtain a license, a driver’s parent or legal guardian must provide written consent. The driver must also have completed a state-approved driver education course.
Drivers in the initial licensing phase cannot be convicted of any traffic violations for at least 6 months before they turn 18. A conviction during this phase may extend certain restrictions past age 18.
Only one passenger under the age of 20 is allowed in the vehicle unless passengers are:
- Siblings or stepsiblings of the driver
- Children or stepchildren of the driver
This specific rule applies for the first 12 months of holding a license or until the driver turns 18, whichever comes first.
17 and 16 year old driving restrictions in Illinois still include nighttime driving curfews and limited use of wireless devices.
What Happens If You Get a Speeding Ticket When Under 18?
To seek court supervision for a traffic violation and prevent a conviction, a driver under 18 must appear in court accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Teens must attend traffic safety school if they receive a sentence of court supervision. Some examples of serious traffic violations that could result in this outcome include:
- Speeding more than 26 MPH over the speed limit
- Driving without a license or permit
- Possession of alcohol within a vehicle
- Reckless driving
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Failure to give the right of way to a pedestrian
Traffic Ticket License Suspension for Drivers Under 21 Years Old
Drivers under 21 will have their license suspended if they receive two moving violation convictions within 24 months. The suspension will last for a minimum of 1 month. The length of the suspension is determined by the seriousness of the offense and the driver’s driving history.
Our Legal Team Can Help
If you or a family member is facing license suspension as a teen driver, we can help. Contact our Illinois driver’s license reinstatement attorneys to receive legal assistance from knowledgeable and skilled professionals.
At Johnson & Goldrich, P.C., we focus exclusively on driver’s license reinstatement. We can help you understand the system, minimize repercussions, and keep your auto insurance rates from skyrocketing.