Motorists ticketed by police officers for minor traffic citations can say goodbye to having to give up their driver’s license as bond with a new law signed by Governor Pat Quinn Sunday.
Called the “Sign and Drive” law, it ends the long practice of drivers having to post their license as insurance they show up in traffic court or pay the fine for a traffic ticket by allowing them to simply sign their signature on the citation.
“A driver’s license is an important form of identification, and without it many residents may run into problems during everyday situations when a valid ID is required,” Quinn said. “This common sense legislation will allow law enforcement officials to continue doing their jobs while letting motorists hang onto a vital piece of identification. ‘Sign and Drive’ will help ensure motorists comply with the law and keep traffic moving on our streets.”
Because a driver’s license is used so frequently as a means of identification for banking, travel, verification of age and other routine matters, State Senator Michael Noland (D-Elgin) and State Representative John D’Amico (D-Chicago), who sponsored the bill thought it was time to end the practice.
“With this bill, Illinois drivers will be able to keep their driver’s license which is used as a primary form of identification for receiving services related to banking, travel, education and more,” said Noland. ” Now, with just their signature, drivers in Illinois can pay their fines online or by mail, appear if necessary, but keep their license as long as their fine is paid. This will save on time away from work, family matters and other more important activities of everyday life in Illinois.”
The new law is effectively immediately.
