Looking to ace your Illinois driving test? Whether you’re a new teen driver or an adult getting your license, knowing what kinds of practice questions to expect can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key topics on the Illinois written test, share sample questions and answers, and point you to the best resources for practice—so you can pass with confidence the first time.
What Is the Illinois Driving Test?
The Illinois driving test has two parts:
- The Written (Knowledge) Exam – A multiple-choice test that checks your understanding of traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Start with a free sample test now
- The Road Skills Test – An in-car exam to evaluate your ability to drive safely and follow rules in real-world conditions.
This article focuses on practice questions for the written knowledge exam, which is the first step toward earning a driver’s license in Illinois.
Illinois Written Test: Key Facts
- Format: 35 multiple-choice questions
- Passing Score: At least 28 correct answers (80%)
- Time Limit: No official time limit, but must be completed in one sitting
- Languages Available: English, Spanish, Polish, Chinese, and others
- Cost: Included in the license application fee
What Topics Are Covered?
The Illinois written test is based on the Illinois Rules of the Road manual and tests your understanding of:
- Traffic signs and signals
- Right-of-way laws
- Speed limits
- Pavement markings
- Alcohol and drug laws
- Safe driving practices
- Lane usage
- Emergency situations
Illinois Driving Test Practice Questions (with Answers)
Below are sample practice questions to help you prepare for the written test. These mirror the types of questions you’ll see on test day.
Traffic Signs & Signals
Q1: What does a red octagon-shaped sign mean?
A) Yield
B) Stop
C) Do Not Enter
D) Warning
Answer: B) Stop
Q2: A yellow, diamond-shaped sign with a curved arrow indicates…
A) A sharp left turn
B) A winding road ahead
C) A U-turn zone
D) Slippery road
Answer: B) A winding road ahead
Rules of the Road
Q3: When must you use your headlights in Illinois?
A) Only at night
B) When you can’t see 1000 feet ahead
C) From dusk to dawn or when using windshield wipers
D) Only on highways
Answer: C) From dusk to dawn or when using windshield wipers
Q4: At a four-way stop, who has the right of way?
A) The car on the left
B) The fastest vehicle
C) The vehicle that arrives first
D) The largest vehicle
Answer: C) The vehicle that arrives first
Safe Driving Practices
Q5: How far ahead should you signal before turning?
A) 50 feet
B) 100 feet in town, 200 feet on highways
C) 300 feet
D) Immediately before turning
Answer: B) 100 feet in town, 200 feet on highways
Q6: What’s the legal BAC limit for drivers under 21 in Illinois?
A) 0.08%
B) 0.02%
C) 0.00%
D) 0.05%
Answer: C) 0.00%
Special Situations
Q7: If your vehicle starts to skid, what should you do?
A) Slam on the brakes
B) Turn in the opposite direction of the skid
C) Let go of the wheel
D) Steer in the direction you want to go
Answer: D) Steer in the direction you want to go
Q8: What must you do when approaching a school bus stopped with red lights flashing?
A) Stop only if you’re behind the bus
B) Stop in all directions unless separated by a median
C) Keep going if you’re on a four-lane road
D) Honk and pass slowly
Answer: B) Stop in all directions unless separated by a median
Best Resources to Practice for the Illinois Written Test
To prepare effectively, use these official and trusted tools:
1. Illinois Rules of the Road Manual
The test is based entirely on this manual.
Download the Manual (PDF)
2. Free Online Practice Tests
These websites offer realistic test simulations and quizzes:
Who Has to Take the Illinois Written Test?
You’ll need to take the test if you are:
- A new driver applying for your first license
- A teen driver completing driver education
- A new resident with an out-of-state license that’s expired
- A driver whose license has been expired for more than a year
- Reinstating a license after a revocation or suspension
How to Book the Illinois Written Test
Where to Go:
Visit a Secretary of State (SOS) Driver Services Facility. Find a location:
Illinois SOS Facility Finder
What to Bring:
- Proof of identity and residency
- Social Security Number
- Any required documentation for REAL ID (optional)
- Completed application (available at facility)
Test Day Tips
- Study the manual thoroughly
- Take multiple practice tests until you consistently score 90% or above
- Arrive early with all documents ready
- Stay calm and read each question carefully
- Don’t second-guess yourself unless you’re truly unsure—go with your gut
What Happens If You Fail?
- You may retake the test after 1 day
- You have three chances within a year to pass
- After three failures, you may be required to reapply or take additional steps
Final Thoughts
The best way to prepare for the Illinois driving test is to use targeted practice questions, review the official manual, and simulate the real exam experience.
By mastering the material and building your confidence with realistic quizzes, you’ll be ready to pass the written test and move one step closer to getting your driver’s license.
