DMVZoneBlogSince January 1, 2026, Illinois's Scott's Law covers emergency vehicles with flashing lights whether stopped or moving, with fines of $250 to $10,000. Passing a stopped school bus means a $300 fine and a 3-month suspension.
Illinois's Scott's Law requires drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles with flashing lights. Since January 1, 2026, that applies whether the vehicle is stopped or moving, and it protects people at the scene. A first violation costs $250 to $10,000. Passing a stopped school bus brings a $300 fine and a 3-month license suspension.
Scott's Law is named for Lt. Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department, who was struck and killed at a crash scene in 2000. Illinois has strengthened it several times since.
| School bus violation | Fine | Suspension |
|---|---|---|
| First | $300 plus community service | 3 months |
| Second within 5 years | $1,000 plus community service | 1 year |
If a bus is passed and the owner of the car was not driving, the owner must identify the driver when asked. Refusing can suspend the car's registration for 3 months.
Since 2026, Scott's Law applies to emergency vehicles that are:
Answer: C. The 2026 change covers vehicles with flashing lights whether stationary or not.
What is the fine for a first Illinois school bus violation?
Answer: C. The first fine is $300, plus a 3-month suspension.
What is the first-offense fine range under Scott's Law?
Answer: C. A first violation carries $250 to $10,000.
Not when the bus is loading or unloading children. Judges may not grant supervision for that.
The Secretary of State may grant a restricted permit for work and other necessary travel.
Lt. Scott Gillen, a Chicago firefighter killed at a crash scene.
Checked against these pages on November 12, 2026. Laws change, so open the source before you rely on a number.
Rules and fees change. Always confirm the details with the official Illinois DMV or motor vehicle agency before you act. DMVZone practice questions are written to teach the rules and are not copies of the real test.
Illinois bans holding a phone or tablet while driving. Since July 1, 2019, even a first ticket is a moving violation. Fines run from up to $75 for a first offense to $150, and drivers under 19 cannot use a phone at all.
Illinois does not suspend at a point total alone. Three moving violation convictions in 12 months, or two in 24 months for drivers under 21, can bring a suspension. Points then set how long it lasts, from 2 months to revocation.
Chicago speed cameras near schools and parks fine drivers $35 for 6 to 10 mph over and $100 for 11 or more. School zone cameras run 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on school days, park zone cameras while the park is open. New cameras give 30 days of warnings.