Who Needs the Course?
You generally need the course if you:
Are 18, 19, or 20.
Are applying for an Illinois driver's license for the first time.
Have never completed an approved driver education course.
Illinois confirms that all three conditions trigger the six-hour requirement. (Illinois Secretary of State)
What Does the Course Cover?
The course includes traffic laws, signs and markings, impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, risk-taking, safety belts, nighttime driving, right-of-way, and other traffic-safety subjects. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Online instruction must provide at least 360 minutes of instruction. (Illinois Secretary of State)
The course does not include behind-the-wheel instruction.
Elmhurst Licensing Process
After completing the course:
Pass the provider's final test.
Obtain your Certificate of Completion.
Print the certificate.
Prepare your required identification documents.
Visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility.
Complete the applicable vision, written, and road examinations.
Complete the remaining licensing requirements.
The provider final test does not replace the Secretary of State written examination. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Driving in Elmhurst
Elmhurst is in eastern DuPage County and has a dense suburban transportation environment. Major roads include I-290, I-294 connections, IL 83, IL 38, York Road, North Avenue, and other major arterials.
The city's transportation environment also includes Union Pacific and Canadian National rail operations. Railroad activity can affect local traffic patterns and create queues around crossings.
Major Roads
I-290
I-294
Illinois Route 83
Illinois Route 38
North Avenue
York Road
Roosevelt Road
Primary Local Driving Topic: Traffic and Railroad Crossings
Elmhurst drivers need to manage both suburban arterial traffic and railroad activity. New drivers should anticipate stopped traffic near crossings and never enter a crossing unless there is enough space on the other side.
The broader DuPage transportation network also includes extensive pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Drivers should scan intersections for people crossing outside the main traffic lane.
Additional Safety Topic: Pedestrians and Bicyclists
Elmhurst's urban environment means drivers frequently share roads with pedestrians and bicyclists. Slow down near downtown areas, trail crossings, schools, train stations, and busy intersections.
Take the Course Online in Elmhurst
Eligible Elmhurst residents can complete the six-hour Adult Driver Education course online through a certified provider. IllinoisAdultDriversEd.com is currently listed as an online provider. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Elmhurst residents need Adult Driver Education?
Eligible first-time applicants ages 18 through 20 who have never completed approved driver education must complete the course. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Can I complete it online?
Yes.
How long is it?
At least six hours, with online courses required to provide at least 360 minutes of instruction. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Does it include behind-the-wheel lessons?
No.
Is there a final test?
Yes. The provider administers a written final test. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Is the provider test the state exam?
No.
What happens after completion?
You obtain your completion certificate and continue at Driver Services.
Does Elmhurst have major highways nearby?
Yes. I-290 and major regional routes provide important connections.
Are railroad crossings important in Elmhurst?
Yes. Railroad operations are an important part of the city's transportation environment.
Does course completion automatically issue a license?
No.
Start Your Elmhurst Adult Driver Education Course
Eligible first-time applicants can complete the required six-hour instruction online and then continue the Illinois licensing process at Driver Services.