Why are there special requirements for teenagers to get their driver's licenses in Illinois? As a group, teens have the worst driving records out of all drivers. They are young, inexperienced, and more prone to risk-taking than older drivers are. According to the US Department of Transportation, 16% of all reported auto accidents in 2006 involved drivers between the ages of 15-20. Also in 2006, 3,490 drivers in that age group died in automobile accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In Illinois, according to statistics cited by the Secretary of State's Teen Driver Safety Task Force, in 2005 there were 260 fatalities from crashes involving teenage drivers. Because of these statistics, Illinois has instituted a graduated licensing program for teen drivers and requires at least 50 hours of driving practice with a parent or guardian before drivers under 18 can get their licenses.