Who Needs the Course?

The requirement generally applies when all three conditions are met:

Age 18, 19, or 20

First Illinois driver's license application

No prior approved driver education course

Taking the Course Online

The course contains at least six hours of instruction. It covers Illinois traffic laws, signs, signals, markings, impaired driving, distraction, speed, nighttime driving, risk taking, safety belts, and right-of-way rules. (Illinois Secretary of State)

It does not include behind-the-wheel instruction.

Hometown Licensing Process

Complete the course, pass the provider's final test, receive your certificate, prepare your identification documents, and then complete the applicable Secretary of State licensing examinations.

Driving in Hometown

Hometown is a compact suburban community with important traffic activity along 87th Street and Illinois Route 50, also known as Cicero Avenue.

The city specifically operates a red-light enforcement system at the intersection of 87th Street and IL 50 and identifies roadway safety at intersections as a community concern. (City of Hometown)

Major Roads

87th Street

IL 50 / Cicero Avenue

Southwest Highway

Pulaski Road

Nearby I-294 and I-55 corridors

Primary Local Driving Topic: Traffic Signals

The 87th Street and Cicero Avenue intersection is especially relevant to new drivers.

Students should practice:

Full stops at red lights

Checking cross traffic

Watching for pedestrians

Identifying turning lanes

Avoiding distracted driving

Anticipating sudden stops

Checking signals before entering an intersection

Additional Safety Topic: Commercial and Arterial Traffic

Cicero Avenue and surrounding regional routes can carry significantly more traffic than neighborhood streets. New drivers should adjust speed and following distance when moving between residential and arterial roads.

Online Adult Driver Education Throughout Hometown

Eligible students can complete the classroom portion online through a certified provider. The course does not replace the Secretary of State's written or road examinations. (Illinois Secretary of State)

Nearby Secretary of State Facilities

Possible Cook County facilities include Chicago South, Midlothian, Chicago Heights, Bridgeview, and other area Driver Services locations. Check the current facility list before scheduling. (Illinois Secretary of State)

Hometown FAQs

Do 18-year-olds need the course?

Yes, when all three eligibility conditions apply.

Can I take it online?

Yes.

Is it six hours?

At least six hours.

Does it include driving lessons?

No.

Do I still need a road test?

If required for your application, yes.

What is the most important local intersection?

87th Street and Cicero Avenue is a key safety location identified by the city. (City of Hometown)

Does the city have special driver education rules?

No.

Does the provider test replace the DMV test?

No.

Do I need the completion certificate?