Illinois Driver Training School Bond Guide
Illinois driver training schools must obtain a surety bond to be licensed with the Secretary of State (Sos). Learn how these bonds work with our complete guide.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To ensure that driver training schools operate legally and ethically
- Who Needs It: All driver training schools in Illinois, including those for teen drivers, adults, motorcyclists and CDL licensees
- Regulating Body: The Illinois SoS Driver Services Department
- Required Amount: Varies based on the type of training school
- Premium Rates: Typically 1–10% of the total bond amount, credit-based
What Are Illinois Driver Training School Bonds?
Illinois driver training school bonds are required by the SoS Driver Services Department. These bonds ensure that schools will comply with all state laws and regulations under the Illinois Vehicle Code and will not act fraudulently.
How Much Do Driver Trainer School Bonds Cost in Illinois?
Illinois driver training school bonds and online-only adult driver education bonds start at just $100 for a one-year term. Select your bond type below to purchase and receive your bond.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates available from our nationwide network of providers.
How Does an Illinois Driver Training School or Online-Only Adult Driver Education Bond Work?
By purchasing one of these bonds, you enter a legally-binding contract between three parties:
- Principal: You, the driver training school owner purchasing the bond
- Obligee: The Illinois Driver Services Department requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
If you, as the principal, violate the bond terms, harmed students or their families can file a bond claim. This helps protect consumers and the school remains accountable for any misconduct.
How Do I Get a Driving School Bond in Illinois?
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get an Illinois driver training school bond. To get started, complete our quick online application. You’ll receive a free, personalized quote within one business day which you can pay for at any time.
After purchase, we’ll deliver your official bond form via your preferred shipping method. Sign and file the original bond with the Driver Services Department.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, you may be able to get a driver training school bond even with bad credit. However, keep in mind that this may lead to a higher premium.
When you apply, we will explore our nationwide markets to find the best available rate for you. Apply now to get started!
How to Renew Your Driver Training School Bond
You must renew your driver training school bond before the current one-year term ends. After paying your renewal invoice, you'll receive instructions to ensure your bond remains active for the upcoming term.
Check out our How to Renew Your Surety Bond page for more information.
How to Open a Driver Training School in Illinois
Anyone looking to open a licensed driver training school in Illinois must fulfill several requirements. Complete the following steps to apply.
1. Prepare your location and vehicles
To operate your business or facility, you must meet the following requirements:
- Location is commercially zoned with at least 150 square feet of office space
- Classroom is 300 square feet and contains proper teaching materials
- Vehicles have dual brakes and rear view mirrors
- Vehicles visibly display the school name and insurance sticker
- Vehicles are registered, inspected and insured
2. Hire Qualified Instructors
To become an instructor, individuals must meet several key requirements:
- Be 21+ years old
- Have 2+ years of driving experience
- Pass a background check
- Complete a 48-hour training program
- Pass state exams
3. Meet training requirements
Next, ensure you meet the requirements for driver education offerings:
- For teen drivers: Offer 30 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel driving, and 6 hours of observation
For CDL training: Have a 27,000 square foot training area and provide 160 hours of combined classroom and driving instruction.
4. Get your surety bond
File a surety bond in the amount required for your specific type of driving school, ranging from $10,000 to $70,000.
5. Submit your application
Submit all required forms and fees to the Secretary of State. An inspection of your location and vehicles will follow.
After completing these steps, you’ll receive your license to legally open a driver training school in Illinois.
