Illinois permit test facts
The format of the SOS knowledge test and where each fact comes from.
| Fact | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Official test | Class D written test | ilga.gov State regulation · 92 Ill. Adm. Code 1030.80(b) · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Number of questions | 35 questions | Same source as above |
| Passing score | 28 of 35 correct (80%) | Same source as above |
| Minimum age for a permit | You can get an Illinois instruction permit at 15 if you are enrolled in an approved driver education course or will start one within 30 days. From age 17 and 3 months, you can apply without driver education. | files.driving-tests.org Official handbook · Illinois Rules of the Road 2026 (DSD A 112), PDF p. 19 (printed p. 16), Chapter 3: Drivers Under Age 21 > Obtaining an Instruction Permit · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Attempts allowed | You get three attempts to pass each exam, including the written test, within one year of the date you paid your application fee. | files.driving-tests.org Official handbook · Illinois Rules of the Road 2026 (DSD A 112), PDF p. 16 (printed p. 13), Chapter 2: Driver's License Exams · checked November 1, 2026 |
| Handbook to study | Illinois Rules of the Road 2026 (DSD A 112), downloaded November 1, 2026 | files.driving-tests.org Official handbook · checked November 1, 2026 |
The SOS website refused our automated downloader, so we used a copy of the official edition from files.driving-tests.org. The questions cite that edition's pages.
Questions people ask
How many questions are on the Illinois permit test?
The Illinois class d written test has 35 questions. You need 28 of 35 correct (80%) to pass.
What score do you need to pass the Illinois permit test?
28 of 35 correct (80%).
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Illinois?
You can get an Illinois instruction permit at 15 if you are enrolled in an approved driver education course or will start one within 30 days. From age 17 and 3 months, you can apply without driver education.
Which handbook should you study for the Illinois permit test?
The Illinois Rules of the Road 2026 (DSD A 112) (downloaded November 1, 2026), published by the Illinois Secretary of State.
Not covered here yet
We have not yet confirmed permit fees and the documents to bring from an official source. Check the SOS website before you go.
Back to the Illinois practice tests
Facts checked November 1, 2026. See how we check.