Illinois SOS Practice Tests

The Illinois driver's manual isn't enough for the written exam. The Illinois permit practice test is just one more way you can prepare. We also have the Illinois driver's license renewal test, and many more, to help you pass the written exam.

Your Illinois SOS Practice Tests

We've arranged several IL SOS practice tests for your convenience. Please pick the one below that fits your needs the best.

Your Illinois SOS Handbooks

Before you take a practice test make sure you've reviewed the Illinois drivers handbook. You will be tested on this content! Find them online below:

+ Frequently Asked Questions

We've gathered a list of frequently ask questions by Illinois drivers. Please click to expand.
Click here to ask your driving related question.

Ask a driving related question on AnswersforDrivers.com.

Illinois SOS Driving Test Info

Who has to take the written test?

Anyone who is getting their driver's license for the first time must pass the written test. Teens can take the test if they are at least 16 years old and have successfully completed a state-approved driver's education course. If they're under 18 years of age, they will also need parental consent.

Do I have to Take the written test to Renewing my Drivers License?

You do not have to retake the written test when you renew your license unless you have traffic convictions on your driving record, in which case you will be required to retake the written test every 8 years. If you have an accidents listed on your driving record, you may also be required to take either the written or on-road tests when you renew.

If you're new to state are you required to take the written test?

Yes, you are required to take the written exam when applying for an Illinois driver's license even if you hold a valid out-of-state license.

Who has to take the on-road driving test?

Anyone who is getting their driver's license for the first time must pass both the written and driving tests. Additionally, you will also be required to re-pass both tests if your driver's license has expired and you want to renew it. Drivers over the age of 75 are also required to take the on-road test when renewing their license.

How many questions are on the written test?

There are 35 questions on the test.

How many questions must you get right?

You must answer at least 28 questions correctly in order to pass.

If you fail when can you retake the test?

You can retake the test again in 1 day.

How many times can you retake the test?

You are allowed 3 attempts to pass the written test within a 12 month period. If you fail the test 3 times or do not pass it within the 12 month period, then you must submit a new application for your license and pay any required fees again.

Illinois SOS Motorcycle Permit Test Info

What are the Motorcycle Permit age limits?

You must be at least 16 years old and have held a motorcycle learner's permit for at least 3 months before you can take the test. If you are under 18 years of age you must also have parental consent.

How many questions are on the test?

There are 15 questions on the test.

How many must you get correct to pass?

You must answer at least 3 questions correctly in order to pass.

Illinois SOS Motorcyle Permit Resctictions

You cannot drive during hours of darkness and must remain under the direct supervision of a licensed motorcycle operator.

Do you need to take an on-road motorcycle riding test?

Yes, you are required to pass a practical on-road motorcycle skill test in order to get your motorcycle license. However, applicants who are over the age of 18 and present a completion card from and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Motorcycle Rider Course do not have to take the on-road test.

Are there any other state specific age requirements or restrictions for motorcycles?

In order to obtain a motorcycle license all applicants are required to hold a motorcycle learner's permit for 3 months and successfully complete Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Motorcycle Rider Course.

What is Illinois Helmet Law?

Illinois currently does not have a helmet law, which means that riders are not legally required to wear any kind of helmet while operating a motorcycle.


Illinois Watercraft Written Safety Test Info

Boaters of a certain age in Illinois are required to have a Boating Education Certificate of Competency and must complete the Illinois Boating Education Course and pass an exam approved by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) in order to receive one. Additionally, boaters also have the option of taking an online safety course offered by either Boat-Ed.com or BoaterExam.com.

Who has to take the test?

All boaters between the ages of 12 and 17 must have Boating Education Certificate of Competency in order to operate a motorized boat or other watercraft on Illinois waterways. The minimum age to receive the certificate is 12, but boaters under 18 must be accompanied and directly supervised by an adult or person holding a Boating Safety Certificate.


The IDNR will also honor safety certificates issued by the following organizations:
  • US Power Squadron Boating Course
  • US Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Course
  • How many questions are on the test?

    Illinois Boating Education Courses may vary from county to county; you can find a list of all available courses organized by county on the IDNR website which you may use to contact the instructor of a course near you for more specific information regarding testing requirements.

    The online safety courses generally have 60 questions on the test.

    How many must you get correct to pass?

    You must answer at least 70% (42 questions) correctly on the online test in order to pass.