Illinois may be home to America’s third-largest city, but the state’s nickname—the Prairie State—still applies, thanks to its vast farmlands, forests, hills, and wetlands. That means over the course of one ride, you can pass through open landscapes and rural small towns and still find yourself in the metropolis of Chicago by your trip’s end.

But to safely enjoy everything this state has to offer, you need motorcycle insurance. We’ll help ensure you’re prepared for your Illinois road trip.

What’s required of all motorcycle riders in Illinois?

According to the State of Illinois Operator’s Manual, you need to follow the same laws as other motorists. Additionally, there are several motorcycle-specific rules you need to be aware of.

You’re required to:

• Carry minimum insurance coverage
• Have a motorcycle endorsement from Illinois or another state
• Use headlights during the day
• Wear eye protection or have a windshield installed on your bike
• Align your bike’s handgrips below the height of your head when seated
• Ensure your bike has a passenger seat and footrest if you intend to carry passengers

You can customize your motorcycle, but keep the following in mind to ensure your bike remains street legal:

• Mirrors: Required (at least one)
• Headlights: Required—must always be active, though you can use a modulating daytime headlight
• Mufflers: Required, and cannot be modified to amplify noise above the original muffler
• Safety inspections: Optional
• Noise levels: Per the Illinois Environmental Protection Regulations, Sec. 902-122: “Maximum allowable A-weighted sound levels based on measurements taken at a distance of 50 feet: 80– 82dBA at less than 35 mph; 86dBA at more than 35 mph.”

Does Illinois have a motorcycle helmet law?

Under Illinois law, you and your passengers aren’t required to wear helmets. However, you both need to protect your eyes with glasses, goggles, or transparent shields:

• Glasses: Common eyepieces worn in front of the eyes, including glasses or sunglasses made of shatter-proof material.
• Goggles: Eyewear that protects the eyes without getting in the way of peripheral vision. The goggles must cover the front and sides of your face, though they don’t need to form a complete seal with the face.
• Transparent shields: Can be one of two types:
  • A shatter-proof windshield attached to the bike’s front that extends above your eyes when you’re in a standard, upright seating position
  • A face shield covering your eyes and face, typically as part of a helmet