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 Evanston, IL?

CDL training in Evanston, 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 Evanston?

Most CDL training programs in Evanston 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 Evanston, IL?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Evanston 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 Evanston 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 126 verified training programs serving the Evanston, Illinois area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in Evanston, IL

Are you looking for commercial driver training in Evanston?We have identified 126 FMCSA-verified programs serving the Evanston area (Pop: 78,110).

Quick Stats

126 Training Programs

ELDT Compliant

3-8 Week Programs

Pop: 78,110

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Evanston, 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

126

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in Evanston, IL?

Students comparing CDL schools in Evanston, 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 126 training programsserving the Evanston area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

126 CDL Schools Near Evanston

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Top Picks in Evanston

Editor's Choice

#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Viking Driving School

Park Ridge, IL

Call Now

#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

VIKING DRIVING SCHOOL INC

Park Ridge, IL

Call Now

#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Diesel Truck Driving School

Park Ridge, IL

Call Now

160 Driving Academy - Niles Classroom and Yard

Niles, IL

5.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Viking Driving School

Park Ridge, IL

8.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

VIKING DRIVING SCHOOL INC

Park Ridge, IL

8.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (NORTH)

Elmwood Park, IL

10.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

18 Wheeler CDL Driving School

Northbrook, IL

11.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy -Prospect Heights Classroom and Yard

Prospect Heights, IL

12 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Metro Prep/Laureate Day School

Arlington Heights, IL

13.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Leyden High Schools - District 212

Melrose Park, IL

13.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Proway CDL LLC

Wheeling, IL

14.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

GETCDL SCHOOL LTD

Arlington Heights, IL

15.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Westchester Public Schools

Westchester, IL

16.9 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Reavis High School Dist. #220

Burbank, IL

20.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Professional Truck Driving School Yard

Bridgeview, IL

22.7 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

KOTRA TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Park City, IL

24.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Illinois Central School Bus - Waukegan

Park City, IL

24.1 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Proway CDL LLC

Libertyville, IL

24.3 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Warren Township High School

Gurnee, IL

25 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

Palos Hills, IL

25 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

DIVISION TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Blue Island, IL

25.5 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

Palos Hills, IL

25.6 miles away

FMCSA ELDT Verified

Showing 20 of 120 schools

CDL Training in Evanston, Illinois

Evanston, Illinois has 126 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 Evanston, 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 Evanston?

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 Evanston

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 Evanston: 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 Evanston

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

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⚙️ Transmission:

Showing 15 schools

School Name	City	Program Types	Key Features	Contact
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy FMCSA Verified	Gary	Class AClass BHazmat		View Details
160 Driving Academy - Bensenville - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago - South Shore - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago Heights Classroom FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Chicago South Shore Yard FMCSA Verified	Harvey	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Crest Hill Classroom FMCSA Verified	Crest Hill	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Des Plaines - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Des Plaines	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Weekend ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Joliet - Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Joliet	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Weekend Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Niles Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Niles	Class AClass BTanker	Evening ClassesVA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Oswego - Classroom FMCSA Verified	Montgomery	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Oswego - Range and Road FMCSA Verified	Montgomery	Class A	Manual Trans.VA Approved	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom FMCSA Verified	Palos Hills	Class ATanker	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - Prairie State Classroom and Yard FMCSA Verified	Chicago Heights	Class AClass BHazmatTanker	Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening Classes	View Details
160 Driving Academy - South Holland - Yard FMCSA Verified	Harvey	Class AHazmat	Manual Trans.Evening Classes	View Details

Tuition Costs in Evanston

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

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DOT Physicals Near Evanston

Required for your CDL medical card

Concentra Urgent Care

4501 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago

(773) 847-0400

4.9

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

CVS MinuteClinic

1001 W Madison St, Chicago

(866) 389-2727

4.6

$89-$139

Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

1600 S Clinton St, Chicago

(312) 842-3300

4.3

$75-$125

Walk-ins OK

View All 50 Clinics in Evanston 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 Evanston

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 Evanston

How long does CDL training take in Evanston?

CDL training programs in Evanston, 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 Evanston without quitting my job?

Yes, several CDL schools in the Evanston 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 Evanston 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 Evanston?

The CDL driver job outlook near Evanston, 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 Evanston?

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 Evanston 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 Evanston 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 Evanston, IL

Quick Stats

Quick Facts: CDL Training in Evanston, IL

How should students compare CDL schools in Evanston, IL?

126 CDL Schools Near Evanston

Top Picks in Evanston

Viking Driving School

VIKING DRIVING SCHOOL INC

Diesel Truck Driving School

160 Driving Academy - Niles Classroom and Yard

Viking Driving School

VIKING DRIVING SCHOOL INC

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (NORTH)

18 Wheeler CDL Driving School

160 Driving Academy -Prospect Heights Classroom and Yard

Metro Prep/Laureate Day School

Leyden High Schools - District 212

Proway CDL LLC

GETCDL SCHOOL LTD

Westchester Public Schools

Reavis High School Dist. #220

Professional Truck Driving School Yard

KOTRA TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

Illinois Central School Bus - Waukegan

Proway CDL LLC

Warren Township High School

BULLDOG DRIVING SCHOOL (SOUTH)

DIVISION TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL

160 Driving Academy - Palos Hills Classroom

CDL Training in Evanston, Illinois

Why Get CDL Training Near Evanston?

CDL Training Costs in Illinois

Trucking Jobs Near Evanston

Compare CDL Schools in Evanston

Tuition Costs in Evanston

Nearby Cities

Need Help Choosing?

More in Illinois

DOT Physicals Near Evanston

Concentra Urgent Care

CVS MinuteClinic

Concentra Urgent Care

CDL Testing & Secretary of State in Evanston

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in Evanston

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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