Illinois Permit Test study materials
Illinois Permit Test study resources

Illinois Permit Test flashcards

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32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Right turn on red
In Illinois, you may turn right after a complete stop unless a sign prohibits it, yielding to pedestrians and traffic. Left on red is allowed only from a one-way to a one-way street.
Four-way stop right-of-way
The first vehicle to arrive has the right-of-way. If two arrive at the same time, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.
Illinois speed limits
Unless posted otherwise: 30 mph in urban areas, 55 mph on rural two-lane roads, and 65โ€“70 mph on designated highways. Always obey posted limits.
Move Over Law
When approaching stopped emergency, law-enforcement, or maintenance vehicles with flashing lights, change lanes if safe or slow down and proceed with caution.
Safety belt requirements
Illinois requires safety belts for front-seat occupants and all passengers under 19. Children under 8 must be secured in an appropriate child restraint system.
Passing restrictions
Passing is prohibited within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing, or bridge, and when a solid yellow line is on your side of the center line.
Red octagon sign
A red octagon with white letters 'STOP' means come to a complete stop at the stop line or crosswalk, yield to traffic, and proceed only when safe.
Yellow diamond sign
A yellow diamond-shaped sign warns of a hazard ahead, such as a curve, hill, or intersection. Slow down and be prepared to react.
Flashing red signal
A flashing red traffic light means stop completely, yield to cross traffic, and proceed when safe-treat it like a stop sign.
Double solid yellow line
Two solid yellow lines mean passing is prohibited in both directions. You may cross only to turn left into a driveway or side road when safe.
Broken yellow center line
A broken yellow line on your side of the center line means you may pass when it is safe and legal, provided no other restrictions apply.
Orange diamond sign
An orange diamond-shaped sign indicates a construction or work zone. Slow down, follow posted limits, and watch for workers and equipment.
Green arrow signal
A green arrow means you may proceed in the direction indicated, but you must yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic if turning across their path.
Three-second rule
Maintain at least a three-second following distance under normal conditions. Increase to four or more seconds in rain, snow, darkness, or when following large vehicles.
IPDE process
Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute-a defensive driving system: scan ahead, predict hazards, decide on an action, and execute it smoothly.
Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when tires ride on a film of water, reducing traction. It can begin at speeds as low as 35 mph. Slow down and avoid sudden braking.
Skid recovery
If your vehicle skids, ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the vehicle to go. Avoid hard braking.
High-beam dimming distances
Dim high beams within 500 feet of oncoming vehicles and within 300 feet when following another vehicle to avoid blinding other drivers.
Distracted driving law
Illinois prohibits hand-held cell phone use while driving. Texting is illegal for all drivers, including hands-free devices in school and work zones.
Smith System
Five keys to defensive driving: Aim high in steering, Get the big picture, Keep your eyes moving, Leave yourself an out, Make sure they see you.
Passing a bicycle
In Illinois, when passing a bicyclist, give at least 3 feet of clearance. Bicycles are vehicles with the same rights and duties as motor vehicles.
School bus stop arm
When a school bus has flashing red lights and an extended stop arm, traffic in both directions must stop unless separated by a raised median or physical barrier.
Truck blind spots
Large trucks have No-Zones on all four sides. If you cannot see the truck driver's mirrors, the driver cannot see you. Avoid lingering alongside.
Motorcycle lane use
Motorcycles are entitled to a full lane. Never share a lane with a motorcycle, and allow extra following distance because they can stop faster than cars.
Pedestrian right-of-way
Drivers must yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. Stop and remain stopped until the pedestrian has cleared your lane and the adjacent lane.
Emergency vehicle approach
When an emergency vehicle with lights and siren approaches, pull to the right edge of the road and stop. If in an intersection, proceed through and then pull over.
Slow-moving vehicle emblem
An orange triangle with a red border marks farm equipment or other slow-moving vehicles. Slow down, be prepared to stop, and pass only when safe and legal.
Fog driving
In fog, use low-beam headlights. High beams reflect off moisture and reduce visibility. Slow down and increase following distance.
Tire blowout response
If a tire blows out, grip the wheel firmly, ease off the accelerator, and steer straight while slowing gradually. Do not brake hard.
Brake failure response
If brakes fail, pump the pedal, downshift to a lower gear, and apply the parking brake gradually. Steer toward a safe off-road area if needed.
Winter driving preparation
Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof before driving. Illinois law requires windows to be clear for safe visibility.
Crash reporting threshold
In Illinois, you must report a crash to police if there are injuries, a fatality, or property damage exceeding $1,500. Stop and exchange information.