Calling everyone that needs to get hold of an Illinois driving record.
There are several ways you can get this.
And today, we’re going to give you a complete guide on how to get an Illinois driving record through all the channels.
We’ll list down the steps in detail, so you know exactly what to do.
Plus, if you see that your driving record isn’t the cleanest, we’ll give you insight on how to improve it.
So without further ado, let’s begin!
Types of Driving Records in Illinois
Before requesting a driving record, you have to know which one you need.
In Illionis, there are 3 types:
- Public Driving Record Abstract: This is the most accessible type since private citizens, employers, and insurance companies can purchase it. Any restrictions, endorsements, and classification codes on your driver’s license appear on this driving record. It also shows any convictions, license suspensions, revocations, or cancellations.
- Driving Record Abstract: It contains information not seen on a public driving record. These include court supervision dispositions. Only the affected driver (you), your lawyer, law enforcement, and the courts are allowed to obtain a copy of this type.
- Internal Records: This contains your COMPLETE driving history. Only the Secretary of State can access and use it.
How to Get My Driving Record in Illinois
As we mentioned, there are several ways you can get your Illinois driving record. These are:
- Online
- In-Person
- By Mail
Let’s look at the steps for each in detail.
Getting Your Illinois Driving Record Online
For the ultimate convenience, you can get your Illinois driving record from the comfort of your home.
However, this is only available for the Public Driving Record Abstract.
If that’s the record you need, then here are the steps:
- Go to the Driving Record Abstract system.
- Put in the necessary information. It must be identical to how it appears on your driver’s license.
- Pay the $12 fee plus a small additional amount for processing using a credit or debit card.
- Receive a copy of your driving record in PDF format.
And there you have it.
As simple as that.
Getting Your Illinois Driving Record In-Person
Another way to get your driving record is by visiting a Secretary of State facility (click here for facility locations). Before you go, though, check whether or not you need to make an appointment.
When you’re there, follow these steps:
- Complete an Abstract Request Form. Ensure you fill out all the necessary sections.
- Pay the $12 fee. If you use a debit or credit card, there is a $1 processing fee.
- Receive a copy of your driving record before leaving the facility.
It’s easy, too, right?
Getting Your Illinois Driving Record By Mail
Your last option is to request your Illinois driving record by mail. It is your best option if you’re out of state and don’t have access to the internet at the moment.
Here’s how you can request your Illinois driving record by mail:
- Complete an Abstract Request Form.
- Enclose the $12 fee. You may pay using a check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State.
- Send these to:
Secretary of State, Driver Analysis Section
2701 S. Dirksen Parkway
Springfield, IL 62723
How to Get Someone Else’s Driving Record in Illinois
In some situations, you may need to get a family member’s driving records (or them, for you). You may do this by mail or by visiting a Secretary of State facility.
The process and the fee are the same, but the requestor must present notarized written permission from the owner. It applies to the following scenarios:
- You are out of state and cannot obtain your driving record online. As a result, a family member can do it for you.
- You are a parent or a legal guardian of a minor.
- You are an immediate family member of an adult.
If not a family member, you’re also limited to 2 options if requesting someone else’s driving records — in person or by mail.
If you choose the former, The Secretary of State’s office will send you the driving record in 11 to 15 days. Processing for the latter takes around 10 days.
The driving record will only show convictions, withdrawals, and crashes. It won’t include personal information, such as the person’s address.
The Secretary of State also sends a notice to the driving record’s owner, stating that you’re requesting their information.
How to Improve Your Illinois Driving Record
Trying to get a copy of your driving record is one thing. Seeing its state is another.
What if it’s less than ideal? What can you do with the violations and the points you’ve accumulated?
Well, if you want to improve your Illinois driving record, you can try some of the following:
- Be familiar with Illinois’ road rules and keep an eye out for traffic signals. Many times, your violations are a product of missed traffic signs. Take note of school zones and speed limits.
- Review your driving record regularly. Ensure it shows accurate information. If you spot any errors, inform the Secretary of State’s Driving Record Unit immediately. You can reach them at (217) 782 2720. They’re open every day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm except for weekends and holidays.
- Attend traffic school. Illinois doesn’t have a point reduction program, which means whatever points you already have on your record stay there. However, you can ask the court if you can attend traffic school to avoid points from being added.
Understanding the Point System in Illinois
As we mentioned, your Illinois driving record shows how many points you’ve accumulated. It’s best to understand Illinois’ point system, so you’ll know whether you’re in any danger of losing your driving privileges.
| Violation | Points |
| Driving below the minimum speed Exceeding the speed limit by 1 to 10 mph | 5 points each |
| Screeching tires | 10 points |
| Failing to stop after a collision with an unattended vehicle Exceeding the speed limit by 11 to 14 mph | 15 points each |
| Speeding in a school zone Ignoring a traffic signal Improper passing | 20 points each |
| Driving with liquor in the passenger area Failure to stop after a collision not resulting in injuries | 25 points each |
| Failure to stop after a collision resulting in injuries Exceeding the speed limit by 25 mph or more | 50 points each |
| Reckless driving | 55 points |
Remember, most violations stay on your driving record for 4 to 5 years. However, severe ones (like a DUI) remain on your record forever — and it isn’t something you can get expunged.
The state may suspend your driving license if you accumulate too many points on your driving record. The table below details this:
| Accumulated Points | Penalty |
| 0 to 14 points | No action |
| 15 to 44 points | 2 months suspension |
| 45 to 74 points | 3 months suspension |
| 75 to 89 points | 6 months suspension |
| 90 to 99 points | 9 months suspension |
| 100 to 109 points | 1 year suspension |
| 110 points or more | License revocation |
The state may also suspend your license if you have 3 or more convictions within 1 year.
Wrapping Things Up
So that is how to get an Illinois driving record — whether yours, a family member’s, or someone else’s.
And, as you can see, it’s very easy to get it. You’re even given 3 ways to request for it.
Need to get hold of your Illinois driving record?
You now know how to!