The Illinois written test has 35 questions, and you need to answer at least 28 correctly to pass

The Illinois Secretary of State written exam is a multiple-choice test with 35 questions total. You must score at least 80 percent — meaning 28 correct answers — to pass. The test covers Illinois traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations.

The questions come from the Illinois Driver's Manual, which is free to read from the Secretary of State website or available in print at any Driver Services facility. Every question on the exam is drawn directly from that manual, so studying it is the most direct way to prepare.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer 28 out of 35 questions correctly to pass the Illinois written test.
  • All questions come from the Illinois Driver's Manual, which you can study for free before taking the exam.
  • The test covers traffic laws, road signs, parking rules, and safe driving situations you will encounter on the road.
  • You can retake the test the same day if you fail, though you will pay the exam fee again.
  • The written test is separate from the road test — passing one does not mean you have passed the other.

What topics the 35 questions cover

The questions are divided across several areas of driving knowledge. You will see questions about speed limits and when they change, right-of-way rules at intersections and four-way stops, parking regulations, and how to handle pedestrians and bicycles. Other questions test your knowledge of road signs — what a yellow diamond means, what a red octagon means, and what different colored signs tell you to do.

The exam also includes questions about impaired driving, distracted driving, and what to do if your brakes fail or you skid. You may see questions about seat belt laws, child passenger safety, and how to share the road with large trucks. A few questions cover what documents you need to have in your vehicle and what to do after an accident.

The exact questions you see will be different from what someone else sees — the Secretary of State draws from a larger pool of questions, so each test is randomized. This is why studying the entire Driver's Manual is more useful than trying to memorize a specific list.

How to study for the 35-question test

The Illinois Driver's Manual is your primary study tool. You can read it cover to cover, or focus on the sections that match the test topics listed above. Many people find it helpful to read a section, then write down the main points in their own words — this forces your brain to process the information rather than just scanning.

The Secretary of State website also offers a practice test that mimics the real exam. Taking the practice test under timed conditions — the real test gives you 30 minutes — helps you see which topics need more study and whether you can finish in time. Some people take the practice test multiple times until they consistently score above 28 correct.

If you struggle with reading or English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter or audio version of the test when you schedule your exam. Contact your local Driver Services facility to arrange this before your test date.

What happens if you fail the 35-question test

If you score below 28 correct, you do not pass. You can retake the test the same day at most Driver Services locations, though you will need to pay the exam fee again. There is no waiting period between attempts on the same day, but some facilities may have limited testing slots, so you might need to schedule another appointment.

If you fail multiple times, it can help to spend more time with the Driver's Manual or ask someone to quiz you on the material. Some people find it useful to focus on the topics where they missed the most questions rather than starting over from the beginning.

The difference between the written test and the road test

Passing the 35-question written exam does not mean you have passed your road test, and passing your road test does not mean you have passed the written exam. They are separate exams that test different skills. You need to pass both to get your driver's license.

Most people take the written test first, then schedule their road test after they pass. However, some facilities allow you to take both on the same day if you pass the written test in the morning. Check with your local Driver Services office about their scheduling options.

Where to take the test and what to bring

You take the written test at a Driver Services facility in Illinois. You will need to bring a valid form of ID — a passport, state ID, or birth certificate with a photo ID works. You will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or tax return.

Bring any documents related to your address, such as a utility bill or lease, if you are explore for a license for the first time or if your address has changed. The staff at the facility will tell you exactly what you need when you call to schedule your appointment or when you arrive.

How much time you have to complete the test

You have 30 minutes to answer all 35 questions. This works out to less than one minute per question on average, but most people finish faster because the questions are straightforward — you either know the answer or you do not. If you finish early, you can review your answers before submitting.

The time limit is the same for everyone, regardless of whether English is your first language. If you have a documented learning disability or other condition that affects how quickly you process information, you may be able to request extra time — ask your Driver Services facility about accommodations when you schedule your test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or notes during the written test?

No. The test is proctored, meaning a staff member watches while you take it. You cannot use your phone, notes, the Driver's Manual, or any other materials during the exam. You must answer the questions from memory based on what you studied beforehand.

What if I fail the written test three times?

Illinois does not have a limit on how many times you can retake the written test. You can keep retaking it as many times as you need, though you will pay the exam fee each time. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the areas where they struggled.

Is the written test the same if I am renewing my license?

If you are renewing your license and already have a valid Illinois driver's license, you usually do not have to take the written test again. You only take it if you are getting a license for the first time, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if the Secretary of State requires it for your specific situation.

Can I take the test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Illinois Secretary of State offers the written test in several languages including Spanish, Polish, and others. When you schedule your test, tell the facility which language you need, and they will arrange it for you.

How long does it take to get results after I finish the test?

You find out whether you passed or failed when ready after you submit your answers. The staff member will tell you your score and how many questions you got right. If you passed, you can often schedule your road test right away at the same facility.