IL Traffic Law
Illinois uses a unique system where most traffic violations are treated as petty offenses rather than criminal matters, though serious violations like reckless driving remain criminal. The state does not use a traditional point system — instead, the Secretary of State tracks convictions and can suspend licenses based on the number and type of violations within specific time periods.
Contest My IL Ticket — $4.99Illinois does not use a numeric point system. Instead, the Secretary of State monitors convictions and takes action based on patterns. For adult drivers, 3 moving violations within 12 months triggers a license suspension or revocation hearing. For drivers under 21, 2 moving violations within 24 months triggers suspension. The severity of the violation also matters — serious offenses like DUI or reckless driving carry mandatory consequences.
Illinois traffic fines vary by municipality. Speeding 1-20 mph over is a petty offense with fines up to $1,000. Speeding 26-34 mph over is a Class B misdemeanor. Red light camera fines are typically $100. Cell phone violations are $75 for a first offense, up to $150+ for repeat offenses. Construction and school zone violations carry doubled or tripled fines.
Illinois allows you to contest by requesting a court hearing, submitting a written contest in some jurisdictions, completing court supervision (a form of probation that keeps the violation off your public record if completed successfully), or traffic school in eligible cases. Court supervision is a particularly valuable option — if you complete the supervision period without additional violations, the ticket does not appear on your driving record.
Key Illinois traffic laws include: 625 ILCS 5/11-601 (speed restrictions), 625 ILCS 5/11-306 (traffic signals), 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 (cell phone use), 625 ILCS 5/11-503 (reckless driving). Illinois allows red light cameras under specific municipal authority. The state has unique court supervision provisions that are not available in most other states.
Does Illinois have a point system?
No. Illinois does not use a numeric point system. Instead, the Secretary of State monitors the number of convictions and can suspend licenses based on patterns.
What is court supervision in Illinois?
Court supervision is a disposition where you are not found guilty. If you complete the supervision period without new violations, the ticket stays off your public driving record.
How many tickets before suspension in Illinois?
For adults, 3 moving violation convictions within 12 months. For drivers under 21, 2 within 24 months.
Speeding Ticket
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Red Light Camera Ticket
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Stop Sign Ticket
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Parking Citation
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HOV Lane Violation
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Cell Phone Ticket
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