Illinois Form DSD CDTS 103 Enhanced Skills Instructor – If you want to teach advanced driving techniques in Illinois, you must hold a valid Enhanced Skills Driving Instructor License. The official application is Form DSD CDTS 103, issued by the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS). This guide explains what the form is, who qualifies, how to complete and submit it, fees, and where to download the official PDF — all based on current Illinois law and SOS resources for U.S. applicants.
What Is Form DSD CDTS 103?
Form DSD CDTS 103 is the official “Application for Enhanced Skills Driving Instructor License.” It is required for individuals who wish to instruct at an Enhanced Skills Driving School (ESDS) licensed by the Illinois Secretary of State.
Enhanced Skills Driving Schools teach advanced techniques such as emergency braking, crash avoidance, and defensive driving to already-licensed drivers for a fee. These schools are distinct from standard commercial driver training schools that prepare students for Secretary of State examinations.
You can download the current official form (September 2021 version) directly from the Illinois Secretary of State website:
Download Form DSD CDTS 103 (PDF)
Who Needs This License?
Anyone who provides behind-the-wheel or classroom instruction in advanced driving skills at a licensed Enhanced Skills Driving School in Illinois must hold this instructor license. The license is school-specific — you must be employed by or associated with a currently licensed ESDS.
The license is issued for a two-year period. Renewal applications must be submitted at least 15 days before the expiration date.
Legal Qualifications for an Enhanced Skills Driving Instructor
Under Illinois Vehicle Code 625 ILCS 5/6-1004 and the administrative rules in 92 Ill. Adm. Code 1065.70, an applicant must meet these core requirements:
- Be of good moral character
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Hold a current, valid driver’s license
- Have held a valid driver’s license for any two-year period preceding the application date
- Never have been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leaving the scene of a crash, reckless homicide, or reckless driving
- Be physically able to safely operate a motor vehicle and train others
- Not be a current salaried or contractual employee of the Illinois Secretary of State
- Be employed or associated with a licensed Enhanced Skills Driving School
- Submit fingerprints for a background check
- Pay the required application and license fee
Additional restrictions apply regarding recent traffic convictions, license classifications (especially for motorcycle or commercial vehicles), and prior license denials or revocations. The SOS reviews each application carefully and may deny, suspend, or revoke a license if any disqualifying condition exists.
How to Complete Form DSD CDTS 103?
The form is a fillable PDF. Download it, save it to your computer, and open it with Adobe Acrobat Reader for best results. Key sections include:
- Personal information (name, address, contact details, driver’s license number)
- Employment history for the past five years
- A series of yes/no questions about criminal history, driving record, prior licenses, and employment with the SOS
- Authorization from an official of the Enhanced Skills Driving School
- Applicant signature under penalty of perjury
Any “Yes” answers require a written explanation on page 2 of the form. Incomplete or inaccurate applications will delay or prevent processing.
Application Fees and Payment
The application and license fee for an Enhanced Skills Driving Instructor is $70 for a two-year license. Make checks payable to the Illinois Secretary of State.
School licenses themselves cost $500 (main office) plus $50 for each branch office.
Where to Mail the Completed Application?
Mail the completed Form DSD CDTS 103, any required supporting documents, and the $70 fee to:
Illinois Secretary of State
Commercial Driver Training Section
1800 W. Hawthorne Ln.
West Chicago, IL 60185
Phone: 630-520-9310
After receiving the application, the Commercial Driver Training Section will contact the school to schedule any necessary inspections or additional processing steps.
Related Forms and Resources
Instructors and schools may also need these related forms available on the official Illinois SOS site:
- Enhanced Skills Driving School Application for Main License (DSD CDTS 98)
- Enhanced Skills Driving School Application for Branch Office License (DSD CDTS 100)
- Enhanced Skills Driving School Insurance Certificate (DSD CDTS 104)
- Agreement Between Parties for Use of Vehicles (DSD CDTS 105)
Full administrative rules for Enhanced Skills Driving Schools are available in 92 Ill. Adm. Code Part 1065.
Official Illinois Secretary of State Resources
Always use official sources for the most current information:
- Enhanced Skills Driver Training Schools page
- Commercial Drivers Publications and Forms
- Illinois Secretary of State official website
Final Tips for a Successful Application
Double-check that your driver’s license is valid and that you meet the two-year holding period. Gather any explanation documents for prior incidents before submitting. Ensure the school official signs the authorization section. Keep copies of everything you mail.
Because requirements and forms can be updated, always verify the latest version and instructions on the official Illinois Secretary of State website before applying. This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.