SPRINGFIELD, IL -- Legislation sponsored by State Senator Susan Garrett (D-Lake Forest) passed the Education Committee this week that will require additional certification for driver education instructors teaching at commercial driving schools.

"This legislation will ensure our students are receiving the best possible training and instruction from our driving instructors at a very important time of their lives," Garrett said. "While obtaining a drivers license is a very exciting time for teenagers, we must make certain their instructors are fully qualified for this important task."

Senate Bill 2135 creates additional requirements for driver training instructors at commercial driving schools who teach courses to students under the age of 18. These additional requirements include completing three consecutive courses in driver task analysis, classroom knowledge and vehicle operational and instructional skills at an accredited university or college in Illinois.

"As more and more students learn to drive at a commercial driving school instead of a public school, we need to ensure there is consistency and continuity between the two programs," Garrett said. "I would like to applaud the Illinois High School and College Drivers Education Association for their continued work to ensure our students are receiving top notch drivers education instruction."

Instructors who currently do not satisfy the additional requirements may complete them within two years of the effective date of the legislation. Senate Bill 2135 now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration.