All traffic laws in Illinois are set out in the Illinois Vehicle Code, 625 ILCS 5. This statute covers everything from speed limits to right-of-way rules to DUI regulations.
Overview of the Illinois Vehicle Code
The Vehicle Code divides traffic rules into chapters covering rules of the road, vehicle equipment, and licensing. Violations of any rules can result in fines, points, or even criminal charges. The Secretary of State tracks violations, and if you get too many, they’ll suspend your license.
Common Illinois Traffic Violations and Penalties
Speeding tickets in Illinois can have a base fine as low as $25, but once you add mandatory court costs and fees, most minor violations end up around $120+.
Red-light violations typically cost $120–$150 and carry 20 points, while stop-sign violations fall in the same price range and add 15 points. Using a handheld phone while driving can land you with 20 points.
And while a single speeding ticket may raise your car insurance rates by 20-30% for three years, two tickets or more can result in dramatic increases and even cancellation.
Traffic Signals and Road Signs
Red means stop. Yellow means stop if you can do it safely. Flashing yellow is a warning to proceed with caution. Stop signs require a complete stop behind the line or crosswalk. Rolling through can get you ticketed, just like running it can. Officers in Aurora, Naperville, or elsewhere in Illinois don’t care if you slowed down.
Yield signs mean let other traffic go first. When merging on a highway like I-55 or I-90, yield to vehicles already on the roadway.
Lane Usage, Passing, and Right-of-Way Rules
Always stay in the right lane unless you’re passing a vehicle. The left lane on Illinois highways is for passing, not cruising. Only pass on two-lane roads if you have clear visibility. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-701, you can’t pass if oncoming traffic is too close. You also can’t speed to complete a pass.
Right-of-way at intersections goes to whoever arrived first. If you arrive at the same time as another vehicle, the driver on the right goes first. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way in marked crosswalks under 625 ILCS 5/11-1002. Drivers who fail to yield can be held liable in pedestrian accidents.
Texting, Cell Phones, and Hands-Free Driving Laws
Handheld cell phone use is illegal under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2. If you’re 19 or older, you can use Bluetooth or hands-free devices, but if you’re under 19, you’re not allowed to use your phone at all while driving.
Unusual or Little-Known Illinois Traffic Laws
Illinois has some traffic rules that may surprise you:
- Horn use. You can only honk in emergencies or to warn other drivers. Honking at someone who cut you off on Lake Shore Drive is technically illegal.
- Funeral processions. Once the lead vehicle enters an intersection, the entire procession can proceed even if the light turns red. Funeral processions have the right-of-way. Don’t be tempted to cut through a procession, as that’s illegal in Illinois.
- Ice cream trucks. When an ice cream truck is stopped and selling, Illinois law requires other drivers to slow down to 15 mph and pass with caution.
Point system thresholds. Three violations in 12 months can suspend your license if you’re 21 or older. Under 21, just two violations in 24 months trigger a suspension.
