Illinois permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost

The Illinois Secretary of State does not publish the number of questions; the test is commonly reported as 35 questions (15 of them on road signs) with 28 correct (80%) to pass, and our practice tests use that format.

The Illinois Secretary of State does not publish a pass mark for the Illinois basic written exam. It is commonly reported as 28 of 35 (80%), and our practice tests use that mark.

You need 28 of 35 (80%) to pass, so in the commonly reported 35-question format you can get at most 7 wrong. The best preparation is to study the official Illinois Rules of the Road (DSD A 112) (2026 edition) and take practice tests until you pass them comfortably.

$20 — Instruction permit (Class D), original, per the Illinois Secretary of State.

Yes. This site has 2 free Illinois basic written exam practice tests for 2026, each with 35 questions and the commonly reported pass mark of 28 of 35 (80%), plus a free road-sign quiz.

The Illinois Secretary of State does not publish a time limit for the Illinois basic written exam.

No waiting period found for an ordinary failure. Rules of the Road: an applicant 'found cheating will fail the exam and be prohibited from retaking it for 30 days.' Rules of the Road: 'You are allowed three attempts to pass each exam within one year from the date you paid your application fee.'

The minimum age is 15, per the Illinois Secretary of State.

Application, fee, vision screening and written exam. Proof of legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, residency and signature per the ILSOS acceptable identification documents chart (originals or certified copies; REAL ID needs two residency documents plus identity and lawful status). Ages 15-17: parent or legal guardian consent and proof of enrolment in an approved driver education course. Unresolved traffic citations block a permit for under-18s.

The official Illinois Rules of the Road (DSD A 112) (2026 edition). You can read it on the official site.