What Are Illinois’ Open Container Laws?

In the state of Illinois, it’s illegal to have alcohol in an open container in the passenger compartment of your motor vehicle. This guide explains the laws and what happens if you break them.

What Are Illinois’ Open Container Laws?

In Illinois, it’s illegal to transport, carry, possess or even have any alcohol in the passenger compartment of your vehicle unless it’s in its original container and the seal is unbroken. (There are exceptions for limos, motorhomes and chartered buses that aren’t working for the schools.)

That means if you have alcohol in a flask, the original bottle that’s been opened, your own personal beverage bottle or in any other container, you can be charged with a crime. If you’re found guilty, the penalties can be pretty severe.

Related: 3 big ways a DUI conviction will change your life

Penalties for Illegal Transportation of Alcohol in an Open Container

If the state convicts you of illegal transportation of alcohol in an open container, you may have to pay a fine of up to $1,000. You’ll also receive points against your driver’s license. As you may know, if you accrue enough points, you’ll lose your driving privileges.

If the state convicts you a second time of illegal transportation of alcohol in an open container, you’ll lose your license for a year. And if you are previous conviction was within the past year, your driving privileges will be revoked.

Related: 3 ways to beat a DUI charge in Illinois

What Happens if the Offender is Under Legal Drinking Age?

If you’re under the age of 21, there’s a mandatory suspension of driving privileges for a year for your first offense violating open container laws. If it’s your second offense, there’s a mandatory revocation of driving privileges.

Related: Illinois DUI information

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