Following its recent efforts to broaden access to driver’s licenses, Illinois has taken another step toward inclusive transportation policy. Governor JB Pritzker has signed House Bill 3125 into law, which will allow undocumented immigrants to become certified driving instructors in the state.
Since 2013, Illinois has issued Temporary Visitor Driver’s Licenses (TVDLs) to undocumented residents who pass standard road tests, making it one of the first states to do so. In 2024, the state eliminated the distinctive markings on those licenses that previously indicated they were not valid for identification purposes, granting standard IDs to undocumented drivers.
House Bill 3125 builds on that initiative by permitting individuals who have held a TVDL for at least two years to apply to become certified driving instructors. Supporters of the bill argue that this change will expand the pool of qualified instructors without compromising training standards.
The law comes amid renewed national debate over road safety and immigration policy, following a tragic crash in Florida involving an undocumented truck driver. Harjinder Singh, who obtained a commercial driver’s license in California and Washington state, was charged with vehicular homicide after making an illegal U-turn that resulted in three deaths. Officials noted language barriers may have contributed to the incident.
Despite controversy surrounding broader licensing policies, Illinois leaders say HB 3125 is focused on improving access to legal driving instruction and ensuring safer roads for all. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2026.