Who Must Take the Course?
The course generally applies when you:
Are 18, 19 or 20.
Are applying for your first Illinois driver's license.
Have never completed an approved driver education course.
Online Course Requirements
The online course provides at least six hours of instruction. Secretary of State certification requires a minimum of 360 minutes for an online course. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Topics include Illinois traffic laws, signs, traffic signals, pavement markings, risk management, impaired driving, distraction, speed, seat belts, nighttime driving and decision-making.
A provider final written test is required. It does not replace the Secretary of State written examination.
What the Course Includes
Six hours of online Adult Driver Education
Illinois traffic-law instruction
Traffic-safety education
Signs and markings
Impaired and distracted driving information
Risk management
Final written test
Certificate of Completion
It does not include behind-the-wheel lessons, the road test or issuance of a driver's license.
Carthage Licensing Process
Confirm eligibility.
Complete the online course.
Pass the provider's final test.
Download and print the certificate.
Prepare your identification documents.
Visit Driver Services.
Complete vision, written and road testing as applicable.
Finish the remaining licensing requirements.
Driving in Carthage
Carthage is an important transportation center in Hancock County. US 136 and IL 94 serve the city, and IDOT's current highway program includes improvements on both routes in Carthage. The program identifies US 136 work from east of Marion Street to west of 1500 N and IL 94 work north of US 136. (IDOT)
For a new driver, Carthage combines small-city streets with state highway traffic. Drivers should be comfortable changing speed, watching for turning traffic and identifying when a local street transitions into a higher-speed roadway.
Primary Local Driving Topic: Highway-to-City Transitions
New drivers should pay attention when moving between US 136, IL 94 and Carthage streets.
Important habits include:
Check mirrors before reducing speed.
Watch for vehicles turning from state routes.
Look for pedestrians near businesses and community destinations.
Use turn signals early.
Do not assume highway traffic will behave like local street traffic.
Additional Topic: Railroad Crossings
IDOT records identify railroad-related improvements in Hancock County, including crossings near La Harpe and Hamilton. Drivers throughout the county should treat railroad crossings as active transportation infrastructure and obey warning devices. (IDOT)
Carthage Driver Services Facility
130 Buchanan Street, Carthage, IL 62321
The current statewide Illinois Secretary of State facility list identifies Carthage as a Western Illinois Driver Services facility. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Applicants should verify current services, hours and testing availability through the Secretary of State Facility Finder before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Adult Driver Education online in Carthage?
Yes. Eligible students can complete the course online through a certified provider.
Is Carthage the Hancock County seat?
Yes. The Illinois State Archives identifies Carthage as the county seat. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Does Carthage have a Driver Services facility?
Yes. It is located at 130 Buchanan Street. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Do I need the course if I am 20?
If you are applying for your first Illinois driver's license and have never completed approved driver education, generally yes.
Is the online course six hours?
Yes. Online certification requires at least 360 minutes of instruction. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Does the course include driving practice?
No.
Do I still need the Secretary of State written test?
Yes.
Do I still need a road test?
Yes, when applicable to your licensing situation.
Can I take the course from home?
Yes.
What roads are important in Carthage?
US 136 and IL 94 are important state routes serving the city. (IDOT)
What should new drivers watch for?
Watch for highway traffic, turning vehicles, pedestrians, railroad crossings and agricultural vehicles.
Does course completion guarantee a license?
No.