Kane County Reporter

State Senator Don DeWitte, representing St. Charles, has joined forces with Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias and a bipartisan group of lawmakers to propose new legislation aimed at eliminating the automatic driving test requirement for drivers upon reaching the age of 79. This initiative builds on efforts from the previous year to address discriminatory practices against senior drivers.

Senator DeWitte stated, “It is well past time we address this antiquated law.” He noted that an earlier version of this legislation, House Bill 4431 in the 103rd General Assembly, had garnered over 50 bipartisan sponsors but was stalled due to political reasons. Subsequently refiled as Senate Bill 1217, it too faced obstacles. DeWitte expressed pride in leading a new bill designed to tackle these issues.

A study conducted by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) in 2023 highlighted that crash rates for drivers aged 70 and older were lower than those for younger age groups between 16 and 74 years old.

The newly filed Senate Bill 91 proposes increasing the age at which Illinois drivers must undergo a behind-the-wheel test from 79 to 87. It also includes a provision allowing immediate family members to express concerns about loved ones' driving capabilities. The bill already enjoys bipartisan support.

“This new legislation removes an unnecessary burden from millions of drivers who have stellar driving records,” said DeWitte. He added that both Secretary Giannoulias and the Illinois AARP back this initiative and anticipates its swift passage through both chambers of the Illinois legislature.

Under SB 91's provisions:

- Drivers aged 79 and 80 would still need to visit a DMV facility for license renewal and take vision tests (and written tests if they have violations) but would not be required to take behind-the-wheel tests.

- Drivers aged between 81-86 would continue renewing their licenses every two years with vision tests (and written tests if needed), without needing behind-the-wheel tests.

- Drivers aged 87 and older would maintain annual renewals including vision and behind-the-wheel tests, with potential written tests based on their records.

This legislative effort aims to align Illinois’ laws with senior driving regulations observed in other states.