Illinois permit test FAQ 2026: how many questions, pass mark, cost
Illinois permit test in brief: at least 35 questions, 80% to pass, per ILSOS.
The Illinois basic written exam (written test for the instruction permit) has at least 35 questions and you need 80% to pass, per ILSOS; questions come from the official Illinois Rules of the Road (DSD A 112) (2026 edition).
Practice format (commonly reported): 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 basic written exam in brief
How many questions are on the Illinois permit test?
ILSOS sets the Illinois basic written exam at a minimum of 35 questions, with 80% to pass; the exact number is not published. 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.
What is the pass mark for the Illinois permit test?
You need 80% to pass, per ILSOS. Our practice tests mark 28 of 35 (80%), the commonly reported format. See how Illinois compares with every state.
How many questions can you get wrong on the Illinois permit test?
ILSOS sets at least 35 questions but does not publish the exact number, so there is no official figure. In the commonly reported 35-question format (not official), 80% means 28 correct, so you can get up to 7 wrong.
Is the Illinois permit test hard?
In the commonly reported 35-question format you need 28 of 35 (80%) to pass, so you can get at most 7 wrong; the official rule sets at least 35 questions. 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.
How much does the Illinois permit test cost?
$20 — Instruction permit (Class D), original, per ILSOS.
Is there a free Illinois permit practice test for 2026?
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.
Time limit, retakes, age and ID
How long is the Illinois permit test?
ILSOS does not publish a time limit for the Illinois basic written exam.
Can I retake the Illinois permit test if I fail?
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.'
How old do you have to be to take the Illinois permit test?
The minimum age is 15, per ILSOS.
What do I need to bring to the Illinois permit test?
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.
Which handbook is the Illinois permit test based on?
The official Illinois Rules of the Road (DSD A 112) (2026 edition). You can read it on the official site.
Official source: Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS), Driver Services Department. Handbook: Illinois Rules of the Road (DSD A 112).
Start the free Illinois basic written exam practice test 1 · Road-sign quiz
Last updated October 22, 2026.