How many practice hours do you need in Illinois?
In Illinois, a learner driver must log 50 hours of supervised driving practice—including 10 at night—before applying for a license.
Illinois learner permit requirements
- Minimum permit age: 15
- Supervised practice required: 50 hours total, 10 at night
- Permit hold period: 9 months
- License eligibility age: 16
- How hours are certified: 50-hour practice log signed by a parent or guardian.
Applicants under 18 must complete an approved driver-education course, hold the instruction permit for 9 months, and log 50 hours of practice (10 at night).
Requirements change and have exceptions. Always confirm the current rules with the Illinois Secretary of State before applying.
Illinois's graduated licensing stages
Enroll in driver ed; drive with a licensed adult 21+; log 50 hours (10 at night) over 9 months.
Night and passenger restrictions apply during the first year.
Graduated restrictions are removed.
Driving restrictions for new Illinois drivers
Nighttime driving is restricted Sunday–Thursday from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Friday–Saturday from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
For the first 12 months (or until 18), no more than one passenger under 20 unless they're family.
Drivers under 19 may not use a cell phone while driving.
Log every Illinois practice hour automatically
DriveMint tracks each supervised drive with GPS, separates day and night hours, and generates a DMV-ready report—so you can prove all 50 hours without a paper logbook.
Illinois driving practice FAQs
How many driving hours do you need in Illinois?+
Illinois requires 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 at night, before applying for a license.
How long is the night-driving restriction in Illinois?+
It runs 10 p.m.–6 a.m. on weeknights and 11 p.m.–6 a.m. on weekends until you turn 18.
Does Illinois require driver education?+
Yes — all applicants under 18 must complete a state-approved driver-education program that includes classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction.