Illinois Motorcycle Permit Practice Test 3

20 questions written from the Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, with an explanation and page citation for every answer.

Question 1 of 20
Lane position & seeing

What is the minimum following distance the manual recommends behind the vehicle ahead in normal conditions?

Keyboard: press 1–4 or A–D to answer, Enter for the next question, S to save, R to read aloud, P to pause reading, L to listen and answer.

Sample questions

  1. What is the minimum following distance the manual recommends behind the vehicle ahead in normal conditions?

    • A Three seconds
    • B Two seconds
    • C One motorcycle length per 10 mph
    • D One second
    Show answer

    A. Three seconds

    Motorcycles need as much distance to stop as cars. A three-second gap leaves a minimum amount of space to stop or swerve and gives you a better view of potholes; increase it on slippery pavement or in heavy traffic.

    Source: Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 14

  2. What does Illinois law say about motorcycle helmets?

    • A A helmet is not legally required, but one greatly reduces the risk of a fatal head injury
    • B Helmets are required only on interstate highways
    • C Only riders under 18 are required to wear a helmet
    • D Every rider and passenger must wear a DOT-approved helmet on all streets and highways in the state
    Show answer

    A. A helmet is not legally required, but one greatly reduces the risk of a fatal head injury

    Illinois does not require helmets by law, but a properly fitted helmet greatly reduces the chance of a fatal head injury. Helmeted riders are three times more likely to survive head injuries, so choosing to wear one is still the safest choice.

    Source: Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 6

  3. At what blood-alcohol concentration is a person legally considered under the influence in Illinois?

    • A 0.10 or more
    • B 0.05 or more
    • C 0.12 or more
    • D 0.08 or more
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    D. 0.08 or more

    In Illinois a person is legally under the influence with a BAC of 0.08 or more. Impairment begins well below that level, so the only safe choice is not to ride after drinking.

    Source: Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 38

  4. When should you use both the front and rear brakes?

    • A Only above highway speeds
    • B Only in emergencies
    • C Only when riding downhill
    • D Every time you slow or stop
    Show answer

    D. Every time you slow or stop

    Using both brakes for normal stops builds the habit and skill you need to use them correctly in an emergency. Squeeze the front lever and press down on the rear pedal rather than grabbing or stomping.

    Source: Illinois Motorcycle Operator Manual, page 12