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Illinois Bill Aims to Pilot Self-Driving Cars in Chicago
Proposed legislation would authorize autonomous vehicle programs in select counties.
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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Illinois state Rep. Kam Buckner has introduced a bill that would authorize autonomous vehicle pilot programs in several counties, including Cook County and Sangamon County. If successful, the pilot could pave the way for statewide legalization of self-driving cars within three years.
Why it matters
The bill represents an effort to bring self-driving technology to Illinois, where previous attempts to legalize autonomous vehicles have failed. The pilot program could help establish a regulatory framework and gauge public acceptance of the emerging technology.
The details
The proposed legislation would allow autonomous vehicle pilot programs in several Illinois counties, including Cook County, which contains Chicago, and Sangamon County, home to the state capital of Springfield. If the pilots are successful, the Illinois Department of Transportation could then move to legalize self-driving cars statewide within three years.
- The bill was introduced in the Illinois state legislature in February 2026.
The players
Kam Buckner
An Illinois state representative who introduced the bill to authorize autonomous vehicle pilot programs.
Illinois Department of Transportation
The state agency that could move to legalize self-driving cars statewide if the pilot programs are successful.
Waymo
A self-driving car operator that is reportedly trying to gain a foothold in Illinois.
What’s next
If the bill is passed, the autonomous vehicle pilot programs in select Illinois counties could begin within the next year.
The takeaway
This proposed legislation represents Illinois' latest effort to embrace self-driving technology and establish a regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles, which could have significant implications for transportation and urban planning in the state.
