A number of laws in Illinois apply specifically to motorcycle riding:

• Illinois does not require bikers to wear helmets; however, strapping on a helmet may save your life.
• Motorcyclists must wear eye protection unless the vehicle they are riding is equipped with a windscreen.
• A passenger seat and footrest are required for bikers who carry a passenger.
• The law requires at least one rear-view mirror, on the left- or right-hand sides or both.
• Law requires daytime use of headlights. A modulating headlight is permitted.
• A muffler is required, but it cannot be modified to increase the noise level above that emitted by the muffler, which was originally installed.
• The handlebar height must be below the shoulders.
• Motorcyclists are mandated by law to carry the basic minimum amount of insurance liability.
• Motorcyclists must obey all street signs, signals and traffic laws.
• Motorcyclists must pass a separate motorcycle written and road exam based on the classification of their motorcycle. State Funded Rider Education is available for all eligible applicants, and it is required for those under age 18. The written and road exams may be waived for those who have successfully completed the rider’s education course.
• Motorcycle license plates are issued according to piston displacement: 150cc and above and less than 150cc. The motorcycle sticker must be attached to the upper right corner of the plate. For first-time purchasers, both plates and a sticker are issued. Each subsequent year, a renewal sticker is issued.

Note: This information was prepared as a public service by the Illinois State Bar Association and is a joint project with the Illinois Press Association. Its purpose is to inform citizens of their legal rights and obligations.