SPRINGFIELD ─ State Senator Ram Villivalam spearheaded a new law alongside the Illinois Secretary of State and AARP that reduces barriers seniors face when looking to renew their driver’s licenses.

“Going to renew your license or take a driving test is not the most exciting task ─ but for our senior residents, it has its own set of challenges as they face stricter testing requirements than any other age group,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “I am proud to usher in this new law that reduces the burden on seniors to ensure they can get to where they need to go.”

In 2022, Villivalam spearheaded a measure that instructed the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office to conduct a study on age-related changes which might affect safe driving. This study concluded that Illinois seniors are among the safest drivers on the road and raising the age requirement for the senior driving test has benefited seniors and reduced wait times at driver services facilities.

Building upon this study, Villivalam’s new law raises the age for mandatory, in-person renewals for driver’s licenses from 75 to 79. It also raises the driving test requirement from age 79 to 87, or 75 and older if the individual holds a commercial driver’s license, to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a vehicle.

“Every decision we make is data-driven, and on this topic the data is clear: seniors are among the safest drivers of any age category,” Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said. “I appreciate Senator Villivalam’s commitment and partnership in this effort that will align Illinois senior driving standards with the rest of the nation, removing an unnecessary burden for seniors while keeping Illinois roads safe and accessible with new reporting procedures.”

Villivalam’s law also expands the list of individuals who may submit information to the Secretary of State relative to the medical condition of a driver, if the driver’s condition interferes with their ability to safely operate a vehicle, to include immediate family members such as a spouse, parent, grandparent, sibling or child.

“Today we’re removing unnecessary barriers and creating a better system for drivers,” said State Representative Jay Hoffman (D-Belleville). “I appreciate the support from Sen. Villivalam, Secretary of State Giannoulias, Illinois AARP and every other advocate who pushed for this responsible, data-driven update.”

“AARP Illinois proudly recognizes Senator Ram Villivalam for his outstanding leadership in advancing the Road Safety and Fairness Act. Senator Villivalam has played a pivotal role in building consensus and promoting fairness in Illinois law,” said Philippe Largent, AARP Illinois State Director. “Thanks to his dedication, the age requirement for behind-the-wheel testing will be raised from 79 to 87, reducing unnecessary barriers for thousands of older adults renewing their driver’s licenses. This change helps protect their independence and dignity. We sincerely thank Senator Villivalam for his commitment.”

House Bill 1226 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect July 1, 2026.