Yes. A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required for any bus weighing more than 26,000 pounds or designed to carry 16 or more passengers. Age requirements apply too — at least 18 for intrastate operations and 21 for interstate routes. Make sure your driver meets both the licensing and age requirements before the bus goes into service.

Yes, in certain parts of the state. Emissions testing is required in designated counties under Illinois's vehicle emissions program — most notably in the Chicago metro area. Requirements vary by location and vehicle type, so check local regulations based on where the bus will be registered. If you're in a covered county, factor inspection scheduling into your timeline before registration.

Yes. Nonprofit and religious organizations may qualify for a sales tax exemption on bus purchases. Applications are handled through the Illinois Department of Revenue, and you'll need valid IRS 501(c)(3) documentation to qualify. Get the exemption approved before you finalize the purchase — it can't be applied after the fact.

Illinois has substantial liability minimums. Buses with up to 15 seats require at least $1.5 million in coverage, while buses carrying 16 or more passengers require $5 million. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is also required statewide. For-hire and nonprofit operations have different requirements, so confirm the right coverage level for your use case. Group policies are available for churches and schools and are worth exploring to manage costs without sacrificing coverage.