NOTE: This page now has additional information to clarify changes to Illinois law through Public Act 102-58. When this act took effect on July 9, 2021, the hours of a school day shifted. This led to a corresponding adjustment to the Illinois laws that prohibit speeding in a school zone.
625 ILCS 5/11-605
Speeding in a school zone is a petty offense under the Illinois Vehicle Code. A petty offense is punishable by a fine only. For most petty offenses, the maximum fine in traffic court is $1,000. But a ticket for speeding in a school zone is a serious traffic offense because it can result in the Secretary of State suspending your driver’s license.
The law provides that the speed limit in a school zone is 20 miles per hour (20 m.p.h.) on school days when children are present. See 625 ILCS 5/11-605.
Public Act 102-58
Before Public Act 102-58 took effect in July 2021, a school day began at 7:00 a.m. and lasted until 4:00 p.m. Moving forward, a school day starts at 6:30 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m. To qualify as a school zone, the speed limit must be posted (i.e., there must be a sign). Technically, the children must be near enough that a hazard exists. But most traffic court judges would usually conclude this anyway.
The first offense of speeding in a school zone results in a minimum fine of $150. However, a second or subsequent offense carries a mandatory fine of $300. In addition to these fines, the driver must also pay $50 to the school district. This fine is collected by the court.
The critical issue with speeding in a school zone is that the offense does not allow court supervision. That means that any ticket for speeding in a school zone will result in a conviction – which cannot be expunged from your driver’s record – and points on your license.
Three convictions for moving violations in 12 months will cause the Secretary of State to suspend your license. However, for drivers under 21 years of age, 2 convictions in 24 months will cause a suspension.
A school zone speeding ticket is a serious matter. Any person facing such charges such consider retaining a qualified attorney.