Overview
North Chicago has an extensive local roadway system and direct access to regional roads. The city's comprehensive plan identifies approximately 49 miles of city-owned roads and identifies Route 137, US 41, Route 43, Route 131, Sheridan Road, Lewis Avenue, and other corridors as important roadways. It also identifies access to I-94 through Route 137. (North Chicago)
Who Must Take Adult Driver Education?
You generally must take the course if:
You are 18, 19, or 20.
You are applying for your first Illinois driver's license.
You have never completed an approved driver education course.
Who Does Not Need This Course?
You generally do not need this course if you:
Are under 18 and follow the teen GDL program.
Are 21 or older, unless another specific requirement applies.
Previously completed qualifying driver education.
Already hold a license that means you are not a first-time applicant.
Are transferring an out-of-state license.
Illinois Online Course Rules
The course must be completed through a Secretary of State-certified provider. It is at least six hours long and covers traffic laws, signs, markings, impaired driving, distraction, speed, safety belts, nighttime driving, right-of-way, and other traffic safety topics.
The provider final test is separate from the Secretary of State written examination. (Illinois Secretary of State)
What the Course Includes and Does Not Include
Includes
Six-hour online instruction
Illinois traffic laws
Traffic signs and signals
Roadway safety
Distracted and impaired driving education
Night driving and speed safety
Final provider test
Certificate of Completion
Does not include
Behind-the-wheel training
Secretary of State road test
Secretary of State written test
Vision screening
Automatic license issuance
North Chicago Licensing Process
Confirm eligibility.
Select a certified provider.
Complete the six-hour online course.
Pass the final test.
Obtain your Certificate of Completion.
Prepare identification documents.
Schedule or confirm a Driver Services appointment.
Visit the facility.
Complete applicable testing.
Meet all remaining requirements.
Driving in North Chicago
North Chicago has a substantial local roadway network. The city's comprehensive plan identifies Route 137 and US 41 as major arterial roads and also identifies Route 43, Route 131, Sheridan Road, Lewis Avenue, ML King Jr. Drive, Argonne Drive, Broadway Avenue, and other roads. (North Chicago)
The city also has access to I-94 through Route 137. (North Chicago)
New drivers should be prepared for:
Regional traffic
Commercial vehicles
Intersections with multiple lanes
Commuter traffic
Railroad activity
Pedestrians and cyclists
Highway access
Major Roads and Highways
U.S. Route 41
US 41 is a major north-south corridor and an important regional connection.
Illinois Route 137
Route 137 is a major corridor through North Chicago and provides access toward I-94.
Illinois Route 43
Waukegan Road is another important regional route.
Illinois Route 131
Green Bay Road provides north-south access.
Sheridan Road
Sheridan Road is an important North Shore corridor.
Lewis Avenue
Lewis Avenue serves local and regional traffic and connects with other major roads.
Primary Local Driving Topic: Busy Arterials and Highway Access
For a new North Chicago driver, busy arterial traffic and highway access are especially important.
Route 137 provides access to I-94, while US 41 and other arterial roads carry substantial regional traffic. (North Chicago)
New drivers should practice:
Entering traffic from side streets
Lane selection
Merging
Blind-spot checks
Following distance
Turning across traffic
Reading overhead signs
Navigating unfamiliar intersections
Additional Safety Topic: Railroad and Transit Traffic
North Chicago's transportation network includes rail infrastructure and regional transit connections.
Drivers should expect pedestrians around transit areas and should never stop on railroad tracks.
Take the Course Online in North Chicago
Eligible students can complete the six-hour Adult Driver Education course online through a certified provider.
IllinoisAdultDriversEd.com offers the online course for eligible Illinois applicants.
Secretary of State Facility
Waukegan Driver Services Facility
617 S. Green Bay RoadWaukegan, IL 60085
The current Secretary of State list identifies Waukegan as appointment required for Driver Services. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Confirm current testing services and appointment requirements before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Adult Driver Education in North Chicago?
If you meet the Illinois age, first-time applicant, and prior driver education conditions, yes.
Can I take the course online?
Yes.
How long is it?
At least six hours.
Does it include driving lessons?
No.
Does it include the DMV road test?
No.
Is there a final test?
Yes. The provider administers one.
Does the provider test replace the DMV written test?
No.
Do I need supervised driving practice?
Illinois encourages substantial supervised practice before licensing.
Does the course issue my driver's license?
No.
Where can I complete the licensing process?
The Waukegan Driver Services Facility is a relevant Lake County option.
Start Your North Chicago Adult Driver Education Course Online
If you are an eligible first-time applicant ages 18 to 20, complete your six-hour Adult Driver Education course online, pass the provider final test, obtain your certificate, and continue with Illinois licensing requirements.