Overview
Zion has a distinctive transportation network that includes Illinois Routes 131, 137, and 173, nearby US 41 and I-94, Metra commuter rail service, Pace service, and local and county roads. The city's transportation plan identifies Route 131, Route 137, and Route 173 as important state routes. (City of Zion)
Who Must Take Adult Driver Education?
You generally must take the course if:
You are 18, 19, or 20.
You are applying for an Illinois driver's license for the first time.
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 following the teen GDL process.
You are 21 or older, unless another requirement applies.
You previously completed qualifying driver education.
You are transferring an existing out-of-state license.
You are not a first-time Illinois license applicant.
Illinois Online Course Rules
The course must be provided by a certified provider and is at least six hours long.
Subjects include Illinois traffic laws, signs, signals, markings, impaired driving, distraction, speed, safety belts, night driving, risk taking, and right-of-way.
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 Adult Driver Education
Online instruction
Illinois traffic safety education
Traffic laws and roadway safety
Signs and signals
Distracted and impaired driving education
Final provider test
Certificate of Completion
Does not include
Behind-the-wheel instruction
Road testing
Secretary of State written testing
Vision testing
Automatic license issuance
Zion Licensing Process
Confirm eligibility.
Select a certified online provider.
Complete the six-hour course.
Pass the provider final test.
Obtain your Certificate of Completion.
Prepare required documents.
Confirm a Driver Services appointment.
Visit the facility.
Complete applicable testing.
Complete all remaining licensing requirements.
Driving in Zion
Zion's transportation network includes several state routes and local roads. The city identifies Route 131, Route 137, and Route 173 as important north-south and east-west routes. (City of Zion)
The city also has Metra and Pace transportation service. (City of Zion)
For a new driver, important conditions include:
Regional traffic
Railroad crossings
Commuter traffic
Commercial vehicles
Route 173 intersections
Access toward US 41 and I-94
Winter weather
Pedestrian activity near transit
Major Roads and Highways
Illinois Route 173
Route 173 is an important east-west route through Zion. IDOT has studied intersection improvements at IL 173 and Gilead Avenue/21st Street in Zion. (IDOT)
Illinois Route 131
Route 131 follows Green Bay Road through Zion.
Illinois Route 137
Route 137 follows Sheridan Road and provides a major north-south connection.
U.S. Route 41
US 41 is located west of Zion and provides a major regional north-south connection.
Interstate 94
I-94 is outside the city but provides important regional access.
Primary Local Driving Topic: Route 173 Intersections and Regional Traffic
For a new Zion driver, Route 173 intersections and regional traffic are especially important.
IDOT has identified the IL 173 and Gilead Avenue/21st Street intersection area for potential future improvements. The study area is located in Zion. (IDOT)
Drivers should:
Watch carefully for changing traffic signals.
Select lanes early.
Check blind spots before changing lanes.
Avoid distracted driving.
Watch for pedestrians.
Expect vehicles turning onto and off Route 173.
Follow temporary traffic controls when work is present.
Additional Safety Topic: Railroad and Metra Traffic
Zion's transportation system includes Metra passenger rail and freight rail activity. The city's comprehensive plan identifies the Union Pacific rail line and Metra Union Pacific North service as important transportation infrastructure. (City of Zion)
Drivers should:
Slow near crossings.
Look for trains.
Never drive around crossing gates.
Never stop on railroad tracks.
Leave enough room beyond the crossing.
Watch for pedestrians near stations.
Additional Safety Topic: Winter Driving
Zion has specific city snow-removal and parking rules related to snow accumulation, demonstrating that winter weather is an important local roadway consideration. The city also identifies state and county roads that are maintained by other agencies. (City of Zion)
New drivers should reduce speed on snow and ice, increase following distance, brake gently, and allow additional travel time.
Take the Course Online in Zion
Eligible Zion residents can complete the six-hour Adult Driver Education classroom portion online through a certified provider.
IllinoisAdultDriversEd.com provides the online Adult Driver Education course.
Secretary of State Facility
Waukegan Driver Services Facility
617 S. Green Bay RoadWaukegan, IL 60085
The current Illinois Secretary of State facility list identifies Waukegan as appointment required for Driver Services. (Illinois Secretary of State)
Confirm current testing services and appointment requirements before traveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need Adult Driver Education in Zion?
If you are 18, 19, or 20, applying for your first Illinois license, and have never completed qualifying driver education, yes.
Can I take Adult Drivers Ed online?
Yes.
How long is the course?
At least six hours.
Does the course include driving lessons?
No.
Does the course include the DMV written test?
No.
Do I still need a road test?
Yes, when applicable.
Is Route 173 important to Zion drivers?
Yes. It is a major east-west state route through the city.
Are railroad crossings important in Zion?
Yes. Zion has both commuter and freight rail infrastructure. (City of Zion)
Does winter weather affect driving in Zion?
Yes. Snow and ice can affect local roads and require slower speeds and greater following distance. (City of Zion)
Where can I complete the licensing process?
The Waukegan Driver Services Facility is a relevant Lake County option.
Start Your Zion Adult Driver Education Course Online
Eligible first-time applicants ages 18 to 20 can complete the six-hour Adult Driver Education course online through a certified provider.
Complete the course, pass the provider final test, obtain your Certificate of Completion, and continue with the Illinois Secretary of State licensing process.