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 124 verified training programs serving the Chicago Heights, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Chicago Heights, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Chicago Heights?We have identified 124 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Chicago Heights area (Pop: 40,000).

Quick Stats

124 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 40,000

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Chicago Heights, 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
124

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Chicago Heights, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Chicago Heights, 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 124 training programsserving the Chicago Heights area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

124 CDL Schools Near Chicago Heights

CDL Training Market in Chicago Heights, IL (2026 Report)

Market Snapshot

  • Active Schools4
  • ELDT Verified4
  • Average Tuition$3,500
  • Starting From$3,500
  • Weekend TrainingAvailable

Aspiring truck drivers in Chicago Heights have access to 4 FMCSA-verified training programs for the 2026 academic year.

The market is competitive, with tuition ranging from an affordable $3,500 up to premium programs around $7,500.

Many schools in Chicago Heights offer flexible scheduling including evening and weekend classes.

Many schools partner with major carriers to offer job placement assistance upon graduation.

*Data verified by CDL Schools USA via the FMCSA Training Provider Registry. Last updated: December 2026.

Top Picks in Chicago Heights

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

DLM SCHOOL BUS LINE INC

Chicago Heights, IL

Call Now
#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Horizon Driving School

Chicago Heights, IL

Call Now
#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Road Runner Driving School

Park Forest, IL

Call Now

DLM SCHOOL BUS LINE INC

Chicago Heights, IL
0.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Chicago Heights Classroom

Chicago Heights, IL
1.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Prairie State Classroom and Yard

Chicago Heights, IL
1.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Horizon Driving School

Chicago Heights, IL
2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Road Runner Driving School

Park Forest, IL
2.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Kickert School Bus Company

Lynwood, IL
4.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Progressive Truck Driving School, INC (Lansing)

Lansing, IL
6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

American Plus Truck Driving School

Lansing, IL
6.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

School Town of Munster

Munster, IN
6.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - South Holland Classroom

South Holland, IL
7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Chicago South Shore Yard

Harvey, IL
7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Hawkins inc. University Park IL

University Park, IL
7.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Fast-Pass Trucking Training

Harvey, IL
7.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

School Transportation

Dixmoor, IL
8.6 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

BTR WAY CDL Training School LLC

Dolton, IL
9.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

First International CDL school

Riverdale, IL
9.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Chicago South

Blue Island, IL
9.7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Highland Christian School

Highland, IN
9.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Griffith Public School

Griffith, IN
10.4 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Alpha School Bus

Crestwood, IL
10.5 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 119 schools

CDL Training in Chicago Heights, Illinois

Chicago Heights, Illinois has 124 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 Chicago Heights, 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 Chicago Heights?

  • 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.

Trucking Jobs Near Chicago Heights

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 Chicago Heights: 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.

Compare CDL Schools in Chicago Heights

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 15 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
160 Driving Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
160 Driving Academy
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Weekend Classes
Class AClass BTanker
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class A
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class ATanker
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class AClass BHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes
Class AHazmat
Manual Trans.Evening Classes

Tuition Costs in Chicago Heights

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.

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near Chicago Heights

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care

4501 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago
4.9
$75-$125
Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

1600 S Clinton St, Chicago
4.3
$75-$125
Walk-ins OK

Walmart Health Center - Downtown Chicago

3569 Corporate Way, Chicago
3.6
$94-$160
Walk-ins OK

💡 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 Chicago Heights

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 Chicago Heights

How long does CDL training take in Chicago Heights?
CDL training programs in Chicago Heights, 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 Chicago Heights without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the Chicago Heights 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 Chicago Heights 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 Chicago Heights?
The CDL driver job outlook near Chicago Heights, 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 Chicago Heights?
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 Chicago Heights CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.