Lawmakers in the Senate approved legislation to allow illegal immigrants to apply for driver's licenses. (WJBC File Photo)

By The Associated Press

SPRINGFIELD - A plan that would allow illegal immigrants in Illinois to get drivers' licenses has cleared another hurdle. The Senate approved the measure 41 to 14 on Tuesday.

It now heads to the House.

The legislation would let illegal immigrants get tested for licenses and buy insurance without facing deportation. The licenses couldn't be used for other purposes like boarding a plane or voter identification.

An estimated 250,000 illegal immigrants in Illinois drive. Proponents of the measure say it enhances safety and saves money. Opposition urged the federal government to address comprehensive immigration reform.

Only two other states allow illegal immigrants to obtain drivers licenses.