Can I drive on an International or Foreign Driver’s License in Illinois?

Illinois law allows drivers relocating to Illinois to drive on their valid driver’s license from their home country or state for ninety (90) days. CDL holders have a reduced window of thirty (30) days to obtain an Illinois CDL. “International driver’s licenses” are not valid in the State of Illinois. International driving permits are issued by the driver’s home country and simply translate the foreign license to make it easier for United State’s officials to read. However, international driving permits still fall under the same rules as foreign driver’s licenses and are only valid for ninety (90) days.

Students at Illinois colleges and universities are allowed to drive on a valid driver’s license from their country or home state while enrolled in school. This is also true for the spouse and/or children of students.

International students who wish to obtain an Illinois driver’s license may be eligible to do so. Students with a valid social security number may apply for an Illinois driver’s license. Students without social security numbers may apply for a Temporary Visitor’s Driver’s License (TVDL). TVDLs are issued by the Illinois Secretary of State to those persons unable to obtain a social security number. It is important to note that TVDLs cannot be used for identification purposes.

Under Illinois law, driving without a valid driver’s license is typically charged as a Class B misdemeanor under 625 ILCS 5/6-101. This is a criminal offense and must be treated as such. The maximum penalty includes a 6 month jail sentence and fine of up to $1,500. If you have been charged with driving without a valid license, feel free to contact the attorneys at The Davis Law Group, P.C. to discuss your case.