Booking Your Illinois Driving Test: A Step-by-Step Scheduling Guide

You've passed your written test, completed driver's ed, and held your permit for at least nine months. The final step to earning your Illinois driver's license is scheduling and passing the behind-the-wheel driving test.

In Illinois, you can no longer just show up at most Driver Services facilities to take your road test; an appointment is mandatory at all Secretary of State locations in the Chicago area and many other busy downstate facilities. This guide will walk you through the process of booking your test.

Before You Schedule: Confirm Your Eligibility

Make sure you meet all the state's requirements before you attempt to book an appointment. For most teen drivers, this means you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have held your Instruction Permit for at least nine consecutive months, conviction-free. [1]
• Have completed a state-approved driver education course.
• Have completed your 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 at night). [1]

Option 1: Scheduling Online (The Preferred Method)

The fastest and most efficient way to book your driving test is through the official Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) website.

How to Schedule Online:

1. Navigate to the ILSOS Website: Go to the official website at ilsos.gov.
2. Find the "Appointments" Link: On the homepage, look for the section for "Appointments" or "Facility and Appointment Information."
3. Choose Your Location: You will be prompted to select the Driver Services facility where you want to take your test. Be aware that not all facilities offer behind-the-wheel testing, so ensure you choose one that does.
4. Select the Correct Service: The system will ask you to choose the type of service you need. It is crucial that you select "Behind-the-Wheel Road Test" from the menu. Do not select "First Time Driver's License" if you are there for the test itself.
5. Enter Your Information: The system will require you to enter specific information to book the appointment. Have this ready:
   • Your full first and last name.
   • A valid email address (this is where your confirmation will be sent).
   • A valid phone number.
6. Find an Available Date and Time: The scheduler will display a calendar. Dates with available appointments will be clickable. Select a date to see the open time slots.
   • Be Patient and Persistent: Road test appointments, especially in the Chicago metro area, are in extremely high demand and can be booked up for weeks. Check back frequently for cancellations.
7. Confirm Your Appointment and Save the Confirmation: Once you find a time, select it and confirm. You will receive a confirmation email. You must save this email. Print it out or have it on your phone, as you will need it when you check in.

Option 2: Scheduling by Phone

For those who prefer not to use the online system, the Secretary of State also offers a phone line for scheduling.

• Call the dedicated appointment hotline at 844-817-4649.
• Be prepared to provide the same personal information that is required for the online system.
• The operator will help you find an available appointment at your desired location.

Tips for Securing a Hard-to-Get Appointment

• Check Multiple Locations: Be willing to test at any location in your area. Facilities in smaller towns or suburbs may have better availability than those in major cities.
• Check for Cancellations: Check the online portal frequently, especially early in the morning or late at night. People cancel their appointments all the time, and you might get lucky and snag a last-minute spot.
• Book Far in Advance: As soon as you are eligible, start looking for an appointment.

What if You Fail the Test?

If you fail your first attempt, you can typically try again as soon as the next day, if an appointment is available. However, if you fail your second attempt, you must wait longer. It's best to take time to practice what the examiner told you before rescheduling. Your application fee is valid for three attempts within one year.

By understanding the system and being persistent, you can successfully navigate the Illinois road test scheduling process and secure your spot to earn your driver's license.