How long does it take to get a CDL?

CDL training programs typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. The exact duration depends on the type of CDL (Class A, B, or C) and the training school.

What is ELDT certification?

Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) is a federal requirement since February 2022. All new CDL applicants must complete training from an FMCSA-registered provider before taking the CDL skills test.

How much does CDL school cost in 2026?

CDL training costs typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for private schools in 2026. Company-sponsored programs may offer free training in exchange for a work commitment. Financial aid, WIOA grants, and VA benefits can help cover costs.

Can I get paid while training for my CDL?

Yes, many trucking companies offer paid CDL training programs where you earn a salary while learning. These programs typically require a 1-2 year employment commitment after graduation.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B CDL?

A Class A CDL allows you to drive combination vehicles (tractor-trailers) over 26,001 lbs with a towed vehicle over 10,000 lbs. A Class B CDL covers single vehicles over 26,001 lbs like buses, dump trucks, and delivery trucks. Class A offers more job opportunities and typically higher pay.

How do I verify if a CDL school is legitimate?

Verify the school is registered with the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR). All legitimate ELDT providers must be listed. Use our Scam Checker tool to verify schools against the federal registry and check for complaints.

Do CDL schools provide certification?

Yes, accredited CDL training schools prepare students for their commercial driver license (CDL) certification exam. After completing an ELDT-approved program, students are eligible to take the CDL skills test at their state DMV. CDL Schools USA lists only FMCSA-verified schools that meet federal certification training standards.

What is the difference between CDL certification and CDL training?

CDL training refers to the hands-on instruction and classroom education provided by truck driving schools. CDL certification is the official credential you receive after passing your state CDL skills test. Accredited CDL training programs prepare you for certification by covering required ELDT theory and behind-the-wheel hours.

How much does CDL training cost in Champaign, IL?

CDL training in Champaign, IL typically costs between $3,000 and $8,000, with an average of $5,000. Costs vary based on program type (private school vs. community college), training length, and included endorsements like Hazmat or Tanker.

How long does it take to get a CDL in Champaign?

Most CDL training programs in Champaign take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Community college programs may take 8-16 weeks. Part-time and weekend programs are available for working adults and may extend the timeline. After training, you must pass the CDL skills test at your state DMV.

Are there weekend CDL classes in Champaign, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Champaign area offer weekend and evening classes for students who cannot attend full-time programs. These flexible schedules allow working adults to earn their CDL without quitting their current job.

How do I verify a CDL school in Champaign is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school's ELDT certification status there. Be wary of schools that cannot provide their TPR registration number or promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks.

CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 22 verified training programs serving the Champaign, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Champaign, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Champaign?We have identified 22 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Champaign area (Pop: 88,909).

Quick Stats

22 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 88,909

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Champaign, IL

CDL License Types

Class A, Class B, Class C

Average Training Cost

$3,000 – $8,000

Program Length

3-8 weeks

Weekend / Evening Options

Available at select schools

FMCSA Registration Required

Yes

Verified Schools

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Champaign, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Champaign, IL should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 22 training programsserving the Champaign area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

22 CDL Schools Near Champaign

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Top Picks in Champaign

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono

Tolono, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Mahomet- Seymour Schools - Transportation

Mahomet, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Rantoul Township High School

Rantoul, IL

Call Now

Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono

Tolono, IL

8.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mahomet- Seymour Schools - Transportation

Mahomet, IL

10.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Rantoul Township High School

Rantoul, IL

14.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Monticello

Monticello, IL

18.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Armstrong-Ellis Grade School

Armstrong, IL

23.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Gibson City

Gibson City, IL

24.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Leroy schools

Le Roy, IL

31.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Danville Area Community College

Danville, IL

34.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Heyworth

Heyworth, IL

40.8 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Charleston

Charleston, IL

41.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Kansas Schools

Kansas, IL

42.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Paris Cooperative High School

Paris, IL

43.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Covington Community Schools

Covington, IN

44.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Milford Area Public Schools

Milford, IL

45.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lexington Schools

Lexington, IL

46.2 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2

Mattoon, IL

47.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois State University

Normal, IL

48.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Lake Land College

Mattoon, IL

49 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Heartland Community College

Normal, IL

49.4 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Classroom

Champaign, IL

2.1 miles away

Showing 20 of 22 schools

CDL Training in Champaign, Illinois

Champaign, Illinois has 22 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs serving students in 2026. Chicago is the largest intermodal hub in North America, with 25% of all US rail freight passing through. Average CDL driver salary in Illinois is about $57,600 per year, with experienced drivers reaching $80,000. The intermodal & distribution sector creates high demand for qualified CDL holders near Champaign, and major freight corridors such as I-80/I-55/I-94 corridors connect graduates to local, regional, and long-haul work. Every school listed on this page is tied to FMCSA Training Provider Registry review, which matters because ELDT completion must come from a registered provider before a first-time CDL applicant can take the skills test.

Why Get CDL Training Near Champaign?

Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
Financial Aid: Schools in Illinois often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

CDL training in Illinois typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

View all CDL schools in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Champaign

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000

Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Illinois

2,500+

Open trucking positions in Illinois

Top employers hiring near Champaign: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Browse CDL Jobs Get Paid to Train

Compare CDL Schools in Champaign

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Champaign	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Yard FMCSA Verified	Champaign	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
Armstrong-Ellis Grade School FMCSA Verified	Armstrong	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
Covington Community Schools FMCSA Verified	Covington	Class ATanker	VA Approved	View Details
Danville Area Community College FMCSA Verified	Danville	Class AHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
Heartland Community College FMCSA Verified	Normal	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Charleston FMCSA Verified	Charleston	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Gibson City FMCSA Verified	Gibson City	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Heyworth FMCSA Verified	Heyworth	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Monticello FMCSA Verified	Monticello	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono FMCSA Verified	Tolono	Class AClass BHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Illinois State University FMCSA Verified	Normal	Class AClass B	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Kansas Schools FMCSA Verified	Kansas	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Lake Land College FMCSA Verified	Mattoon	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
Leroy schools FMCSA Verified	Le Roy	Class A	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details

Tuition Costs in Champaign

Avg. Private School

$5,500

Avg. Public School

$4,000

Price Range

$3,500 - $7,000

Midwest hub. 160 Driving Academy dominates here with mid-range pricing.

Nearby Cities

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DOT Physicals Near Champaign

Required for your CDL medical card

CityMD - Central Champaign

4179 Park Ave, Champaign

(708) 536-7690

4.9

$111-$173

Patient First - South Champaign

6120 Lincoln Ave, Champaign

(618) 585-6504

4.1

$80-$167

View All 2 Clinics in Champaign All Locations

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Champaign

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local Secretary of State office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find Secretary of State Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Champaign

How long does CDL training take in Champaign?

CDL training programs in Champaign, IL typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.

How much does CDL school cost in Illinois?

CDL training costs in Illinois range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.

Can I get a CDL in Champaign without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Champaign area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.

How do I know if a CDL school in Champaign is legitimate?

All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.

Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?

Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.

Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Illinois?

Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Illinois: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.

What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near Champaign?

The CDL driver job outlook near Champaign, IL is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Illinois experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.

Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in Champaign?

The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most Champaign CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.

This page lists FMCSA-verified CDL schools in Illinois, including training programs in Champaign and surrounding cities. All listed programs meet Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

📚

Essential Reading for CDL Students

Expert guides to help you start your trucking career in Illinois

📋

Guide

CDL Schools in Champaign, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Champaign, IL

How should students compare CDL schools in Champaign, IL?

22 CDL Schools Near Champaign

Top Picks in Champaign

Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono

Mahomet- Seymour Schools - Transportation

Rantoul Township High School

Illinois Central School Bus - Tolono

Mahomet- Seymour Schools - Transportation

Rantoul Township High School

Illinois Central School Bus - Monticello

Armstrong-Ellis Grade School

Illinois Central School Bus - Gibson City

Leroy schools

Danville Area Community College

Illinois Central School Bus - Heyworth

Illinois Central School Bus - Charleston

Kansas Schools

Paris Cooperative High School

Covington Community Schools

Milford Area Public Schools

Lexington Schools

Mattoon Community Unit Schools #2

Illinois State University

Lake Land College

Heartland Community College

160 Driving Academy - Champaign - Classroom

CDL Training in Champaign, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Champaign?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Champaign

Compare CDL Schools in Champaign

Tuition Costs in Champaign

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Champaign

CityMD - Central Champaign

Patient First - South Champaign

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Champaign

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Champaign

Essential Reading for CDL Students

How to Get Your CDL in 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

CDL First Year Salary 2026: The Reality Check

How to Pay for CDL School (7 Options)

WIOA Grants: Free CDL Training for Unemployed

CDL School Scams to Avoid in 2026

Can You Get a CDL in 2 Weeks? Fast Track Guide

The Truth About "Free" Company-Sponsored CDL Training

Why Students Fail the CDL Road Test (And How to Pass)

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