Radar detectors are generally legal in Illinois for most drivers, but there are important restrictions you should be aware of before using one.
Legal Use in Private Vehicles
For drivers of non-commercial, passenger vehicles, radar detectors are completely legal in Illinois. There are no state laws prohibiting their use, possession, or installation in cars, SUVs, or other privately owned vehicles.
This means you can use a radar detector to alert you to police radar activity without fear of legal repercussions, as long as you are operating a personal vehicle.
Restrictions for Commercial Vehicles
Illinois law specifically prohibits the use and possession of radar detectors in commercial motor vehicles, as defined by Section 6-500(6) of the Illinois Vehicle Code.
These restrictions apply to vehicles used for commercial purposes, especially those weighing over 10,000 pounds, such as large trucks and buses.
The law states that it is illegal to operate or be in control of a commercial vehicle equipped with any device designed to detect police radar for the purpose of monitoring speed.
There is a limited exception: if a radar detector is stored in a locked, opaque box or is not in the passenger compartment and is not in operation, it may be permitted in a commercial vehicle. However, if the device is accessible or in use, it is considered a violation.
Penalties for Violations
Violating the prohibition against radar detectors in commercial vehicles is classified as a petty offense in Illinois. The minimum fine is $50 for a first offense and $100 for subsequent offenses.
If the offender has a prior conviction for this violation, law enforcement may seize the radar detection device as evidence, but it must be returned when it is no longer needed, provided the owner can demonstrate it will be used only for legitimate and lawful purposes.
Additional Considerations
Laser Jammers: While radar detectors are legal for private vehicles, laser jammers—devices that interfere with police lidar (laser) speed detection equipment—are illegal in Illinois.
No Stopping Solely for Suspected Radar Detector Use: Illinois law does not permit law enforcement to stop or search a commercial vehicle solely on the suspicion of possessing a radar detection device.
Responsible Use: Even though radar detectors are legal for private vehicles, they should be used responsibly. Relying on them to speed excessively can still result in speeding tickets and endanger road safety.
Summary Table
| Vehicle Type | Radar Detector Legal? | Laser Jammer Legal? |
|---|---|---|
| Private (passenger) | Yes | No |
| Commercial (over 10,000 lbs) | No (with limited exceptions) | No |
Key Takeaways
Radar detectors are legal for use in private, non-commercial vehicles in Illinois.
They are illegal in commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds, except when stored properly and not in use.
Penalties apply for violations in commercial vehicles.
Laser jammers are illegal for all vehicles in Illinois.
Before using a radar detector in Illinois, ensure you are in compliance with these regulations to avoid fines and legal issues.
S0urces:
- https://www.chicagoantievictioncampaign.com/are-radar-detectors-a-no-go-in-illinois/
- https://lidarandradar.com/legality-of-radar-detectors-and-laser-jammers-in-states-across-the-united-states/
- https://mokaraminjurylawyers.com/blogs/are-radar-detectors-legal/
- https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K12-714.htm