Taking the car keys is one of the hardest conversations families have. A dementia diagnosis doesn’t mean your parent has to stop driving that day, but it does mean driving will end at some point. Illinois also changed its rules for older drivers this year, so the state check-ins your family may have counted on happen later now.
What changed in Illinois on July 1, 2026
Under the Road Safety and Fairness Act:
- The age for a mandatory road test at license renewal rose from 79 to 87.
- Drivers 79 and older still take a vision test when they renew.
- Drivers 79 and older with a driving violation must take a written test.
- Drivers 81 to 86 renew in person every two years.
- Drivers 87 and older renew every year with a vision test and a road test.
- Immediate family members can report cognitive or physical decline to the Secretary of State for review.
In short, a parent in their early 80s may not be road-tested by the state at all. Families have to watch more closely.
Warning signs to watch for
- Getting lost on familiar routes
- New dents or scrapes on the car or garage
- Missing stop signs or traffic lights
- Confusing the gas and brake pedals
- Drifting between lanes or driving much slower than traffic
- Neighbors or friends mentioning a close call
- Tickets or warnings your parent didn't mention
Ride along a few times on routes your parent drives often. One bad trip isn’t proof, but a pattern is.
How to start the conversation
- Talk early, before there’s a crash. Say you’re worried about their safety and other people’s, not about their age.
- Bring a plan for getting around, not just a request to stop. “How will I get to church?” deserves an answer.
- Ask your parent’s doctor to weigh in. Many parents accept the news more easily from a doctor.
- Consider a professional driving evaluation by an occupational therapy driver rehabilitation specialist. It’s objective, and it takes the decision out of the family argument.
- Expect more than one conversation.
If your parent won’t stop
Immediate family members can ask the Illinois Secretary of State to review a driver’s ability. The state may require a medical report, vision test, written test or road test. Doctors in Illinois may also report concerns. Some families take the more direct route of moving the car, disabling it, or not renewing insurance, but talk with your parent’s doctor first so the step is part of a plan.
Getting around without driving
Township dial-a-ride, Pace, and ADA paratransit cover most of the Northwest Suburbs. People certified for ADA paratransit can ride CTA, Metra and Pace fixed-route service free. See our Pace and transit guide and your parent’s community page for local numbers.
General information, not legal or medical advice. Confirm current rules with the Illinois Secretary of State.
Editorial Review Status
Reviewed for: Illinois Road Safety and Fairness Act changes effective July 1, 2026, Secretary of State renewal rules, family reporting, transportation alternatives.
Elder care regulations, costs, and local provider availability change frequently. We commit to regular audits to ensure Gen X families have the most accurate data for the NW Chicago suburbs.
Disclaimer: This guide is educational only and is not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice. Confirm details with a qualified professional before making decisions.
FAQ
Does a dementia diagnosis automatically end driving in Illinois?
No. Illinois doesn’t automatically revoke a license after a diagnosis. As the disease progresses, driving becomes unsafe, and the family, the doctor or the Secretary of State review process can lead to stopping.
At what age does Illinois require a road test?
Starting July 1, 2026, at renewal for drivers 87 and older. Drivers 79 and older still take a vision test.
Can I report my parent’s driving anonymously?
Contact the Illinois Secretary of State’s medical review unit to ask how reports are handled and what information they need.
What is a professional driving evaluation?
An assessment by a driver rehabilitation specialist, often an occupational therapist, who tests reaction time, vision and thinking skills and may do an on-road test. Ask your parent’s doctor for a referral.
General information, not legal or medical advice. Confirm current rules with the Illinois Secretary of State.