Illinois Student Drivers Face New Distracted Driving License Rule

Teens in Illinois have a new rule to follow before they can hit the open road. And this time, it's not about the DMV line or knowing how to use your blinker. It's very important!

A New Rule for Illinois Student Drivers

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If you're a student driver in Illinois, there's a new box to check before you can score that driver's license. Under the "One Road, One Focus" campaign, teens must now watch a video about the dangers of distracted driving.

The video, required after receiving a learner's permit, lays out exactly what can happen when texting, snapping, or fiddling with the playlist takes your eyes off the road.

Spoiler alert: It's not pretty, and that's the point.

We need to figure out a plan to force many adults to watch it, too.

MORE: Biggest Reasons Rockford Drivers Are the Worst in Illinois

The Numbers Don't Lie

According to NBC Chicago, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 3,300 people die each year, and over 300,000 are injured in crashes involving distracted drivers. Those aren't just stats—they're stop-you-in-your-tracks reasons for this change.

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias rolled this program out during April's Distracted Driving Awareness Month. Along with the video, the campaign includes billboards, law enforcement patrols in high-crash areas, and a new grant program to help communities spread the message.

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Eyes Up. Phones Down. Everybody Wins

This isn't just a message for teens. Parents, guardians, seasoned commuters—everyone shared the road, and everyone needs the reminder. One moment of distraction can change everything.

MORE: Open Letter to Illinois Drivers Who Do This to Others at Red Lights