Can an Illinois job posting require a driver's license?
Quick answer
From January 1, 2027, Illinois employers with 15 or more employees and employment agencies cannot ask for a driver's license in a job posting unless driving is an essential part of the job and a business necessity, and then must say why (820 ILCS 75/17, Public Act 104-0776). Fines start with a warning, then up to $500, then $1,500.
Not legal advice.
Key facts and official sources
| Item | What the law says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Law | 820 ILCS 75/17, added by HB 4758 | Official source |
| Effective | January 1, 2027 | Official source |
| Who | Employers with 15 or more employees, and employment agencies | Official source |
| Rule | No driver's license requirement in a posting unless driving is an essential function and business necessity; if so, briefly explain why | Official source |
| Penalty | Warning + 30 days; then up to $500; then up to $1,500; then up to $1,500 per further 30 days (IDOL) | Official source |
What to do now
- Pull every live Illinois job posting and ATS template.
- Remove "valid driver's license required" where driving is not essential.
- Where driving is essential, add one short line explaining why.
- Tell staffing agencies posting for you about the change.
Want it done in an afternoon? The Illinois driver's license job posting kit turns these steps into fill-in templates, a checklist and a tracker, with the official sources quoted. One-time payment, instant download.
FAQ
What is the fine for an Illinois job post that asks for a driver's license?
The Department of Labor first sends a written warning with 30 days to fix it. After that: up to $500, then up to $1,500 more, then up to $1,500 for every further 30 days without compliance (820 ILCS 75/20).
When does the Illinois driver's license job posting law start?
January 1, 2027.
Who does it cover?
Employers with 15 or more employees and employment agencies (820 ILCS 75/17).
Can I still require a license for driving jobs?
Yes, if driving is one of the essential functions of the job and a business necessity. The posting must include a brief description explaining why a valid driver's license is required.
What are the penalties?
Under 820 ILCS 75/20: a first violation gets a written warning and 30 days to remedy; then a civil penalty of up to $500; then an additional civil penalty of up to $1,500; and then up to $1,500 for every 30 days that pass without compliance.
Is this legal advice?
No. General information only. Ask a licensed Illinois employment attorney.
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