SPRINGFIELD — With support from the Illinois Secretary of State and AARP, State Senator Ram Villivalam is leading the charge on a measure to reduce the barriers seniors face when looking to renew their driver’s licenses.

“According to the data, seniors are among the safest drivers on our roads. This legislation addresses the discrimination many older adults face by raising the age for driving tests,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It also brings Illinois in line with 45 other U.S. states by allowing family members to report medical concerns about a relative’s driving ability, regardless of age.”

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, House Bill 1226 would raise the age for mandatory, in-person renewals for driver’s licenses from 75 to 79. It would also raise 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.

Villivalam’s bill would also expand 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.

“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 would 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 and now urge Governor Pritzker to sign this critical legislation into law.”

House Bill 1226 passed the Senate Thursday.