Sangamon Sun

State Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) has joined other lawmakers in supporting legislation that proposes to raise the age for mandatory road tests to 87 for senior drivers renewing their licenses in Illinois. The proposed House Bill 1226, filed last week with bipartisan backing, seeks to eliminate what is described as a discriminatory practice of requiring driving tests based solely on age.

“This piece of legislation helps alleviate an unnecessary requirement for senior drivers in Illinois,” said Rep. Coffey. “Not only will this change lower the costs for senior drivers to retain their driving privileges, but it will also remove assumptions from state government on whether or not seniors are deemed eligible to drive based on their age.”

Currently, Illinois is unique in its requirement that senior drivers undergo behind-the-wheel tests starting at age 79. In response, the Secretary of State and lawmakers have collaborated to update these requirements in favor of constituents across various districts. If approved and enacted into law, HB 1226 would become effective on July 1, 2026.

For further information, individuals can contact Rep. Coffey’s office at 217-782-0053 or via email at coffey@ilhousegop.org.

Representative Mike Coffey represents the 95th House District of Illinois, covering parts of Sangamon County including areas within Springfield and the Villages of Chatham and Rochester, as well as sections of Macon and Christian Counties.