During the first 12 months of licensing in the Initial Licensing Phase, or until the driver turns 18 (whichever comes first), the number of passengers is capped at one person under age 20. Siblings, stepsiblings, children, or stepchildren of the driver do not count against that limit. After that first 12 months (or after turning 18), the restriction loosens to one passenger in the front seat plus the number of safety belts in the back seat. A traffic conviction during the Initial Licensing Phase can extend these restrictions past the driver's 18th birthday.

Source: Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, Chapter 3: Graduated Driver Licensing Program, Initial Licensing Phase, p. 18 Verified Sep 2026

Earliest full license age

Source: Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, Chapter 3: Graduated Driver Licensing Program, Full Licensing Phase, p. 19 Verified Sep 2026

Minimum age: learner permit

Source: Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, Chapter 3: Obtaining an Instruction Permit, p. 16 Verified Sep 2026

Minimum age: driver license

Source: Illinois Rules of the Road 2026, Chapter 1: Age Restrictions, p. 4 Verified Sep 2026

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