

If you are 15 to 17 years old, you need to:

Illinois has established age-related requirements for obtaining an instruction permit. To find out if you meet the GDL requirements for Illinois, you can contact the SOS at (888) 261-5238. If you're new to Illinois and have a learner's permit from your previous state, your permit may transfer to Illinois, but it depends on your out-of-state driving experience and driver's education requirements. For more, see the SOS' guide to REAL ID licensing. You can choose to receive either a REAL ID or non-compliant ID upon application-details are outlined below. As of May 3, 2023, the REAL ID will function as federal identification for domestic travel and entry into federal and military buildings-your standard license will not after this date. The Illinois SOS has begun issuing federally-compliant REAL ID driver’s licenses in addition to non-compliant driver’s licenses.
